Can you eat expired pasta sauce?

* Safety: While unopened pasta sauce can last for a long time, once opened, it's exposed to air and bacteria. The "best by" date on the jar is a guideline for peak quality, but it doesn't mean the sauce is automatically unsafe to eat after that date. However, the longer it's past the date, the higher the risk of spoilage and harmful bacteria growth.

* Quality: As pasta sauce ages, its flavor and texture can deteriorate. It might become less flavorful, develop an off-putting taste, or have a thicker, more separated consistency.

How to determine if pasta sauce is safe to eat:

1. Check for signs of spoilage: Look for any mold, discoloration, or unusual smells.

2. Smell it: If the sauce has a sour or rancid smell, it's best to discard it.

3. Taste a small amount: This is the most reliable way to determine if it's still good. If it tastes off, don't eat it.

In general, it's better to err on the side of caution and discard expired pasta sauce. If you're unsure, it's always best to consult with a food safety expert.