Ingesting orange juice past its expiration date presents potential risks, primarily associated with altered flavor, reduced nutritional value, and the possible presence of harmful microorganisms. The juice undergoes changes in its chemical composition over time, leading to a sour or unpleasant taste and a decrease in Vitamin C content. Additionally, expired juice can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and yeast, which can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Food safety guidelines emphasize consuming perishable goods before their expiration date to ensure optimal quality and minimize health risks. While expiration dates often indicate a period of peak freshness rather than absolute spoilage, exceeding this timeframe increases the probability of undesirable changes. Historically, understanding food preservation and spoilage has been crucial for human health, leading to practices like pasteurization and the implementation of expiration dating on consumable products.
