Out Of Date Dried Pulses

[Ric.ror]

I’ve found a packet of dried mixed beans in the cupboard
They’re over a year out of date
Can I still use them?

[237SJ]

I would.

[bhg481]

So would I.

[davebro]

Haha - I have some dated 1986 - will use them some time, maybe in the next ten years!

[cashier]

So would I. I've just finished a packet of oats a year out of date, and no ill effects.

[calmck]

Make sure there is no powdery webby stuff when you open them, then should be fine

[LadyCG]

Best Before is not a qualifying date like Use By. They will be fine.

[Ric.ror]

Thanks all
They’re actually two years out but they look fine and dry so I may give them a go tomorrow

[Old_Geezer]

May take a bit of soaking.

[Hymie]

While many foods are safe to consume well beyond their best before/use by date if stored well – I would advise against consuming such a product so far out of date.

Many years ago I was violently sick after consuming a packet of peanuts – after retrieving the packaging from the bin, they were 6 months past their best before date.

Is it worth risking your health for the cost of a packet of dried beans?

[pixie374]

Best before means there is no health risk. Use by means there is x

[brainiac]

Can you really not afford to just buy a new packet?

[diddlydo]

They'll be absolutely fine but may take longer to cook. Use a pressure cooker if you have one.

[Hopkirk]

Are they moving?

[Canary42]

I once tried using some split peas over twenty years out of date (don't ask) - endless soaking made no difference unfortunately, neither did prolonged simmering.

[Ric.ror]

I’ve binned them. It was only because I had them in and was cooking at the time that I thought I could make use of them - and they re so cheap to buy anyway

[diddlydo]

No wonder there is so much food waste in this country if people bin out of date dried pulses. No health risk whatsoever.

[ummmm]

Over a year out of date would suggest they aren't on a regular menu for Ric.