Can walnuts past their sell-by date be eaten safely?

Question

I have a few packets of nuts that expired in Aug 2006 and wondered if they were safe to eat or do they become toxic over time?

Answer 1

Ask yourself - is a couple of quid for some new packets of nuts really worth the risk of food poisoning?

Answer 2

Yes they can be eaten, all that happens is they loose some of the freshness, Its the same with quite a few things, but I use up my nuts by adding to stir fries and other cooking menus. Not just walnuts but all nuts.

Answer 3

These damn best before dates are a complete con!

Nuts should be fine, they may not taste as good but they won't hurt, if they taste nasty then don't eat them but they still won't hurt you!!
There are so many ignorant people out there who think things will kill them if they are a day over the date!!!

Answer 4

I eat everything but meat that is past the sell-by date. I taste it and if it tastes allright i eat it. We did not have much money when i was a kid and therefore i am not too fussy. If it tastes fine , i will eat it. I also like my bread a bit stale, dont like hot toast etc. I am not ancient nothing to do with wars etc ok:))

Answer 5

Check the taste by biting a small piece. The smell also is important. Another guide line is where they were stored. In a warm spot? Then throw them away. In the fridge? Then you can use them.

Answer 6

You could end up with a rancid nut and they are awfull, ever bit into a topic and had a rancid hazelnut? yeuch!

Answer 7

best way to tell if they're still good is let your nose be your guide...if they smell funny they're bad...if they have no smell they're probably OK