The Expiry Date Illusion. Lessons in guilt, curiosity, and human… | by S.M.ARIF | Oct, 2025

Lessons in guilt, curiosity, and human behaviour from a forgotten tea bag

It’s funny how we are told to never waste food and always check the expiration dates. But honestly, we all know food can still be good way past those dates. Food companies put those dates on there for safety, sure, but also to keep sales up. It’s more about following guidelines than what’s actually real.

I was cleaning out my drawer and found some green tea bags that were two years past their expiration date. I stopped for a minute, feeling a bit guilty. But I decided to make a cup anyway, just to see. Surprisingly, it tasted just like new tea — same smell, colour, and comforting feel.

That’s the funny thing. We’re told to worry about things expiring. But when you live a little, pay attention, and get a bit lucky, you see things differently. People tend to follow rules and worry too much, despite what makes sense, especially when it comes to simple things.

I had to laugh at my own behaviour, letting a date on a label dictate what I should do. This wasn’t just about tea; it showed how our minds work. What we often call guilt can be just old habits disguised as worry. It’s definitely worth asking why we feel that way.

Consider rules as guidelines, embrace curiosity, and find joy in unexpected moments — even from an old tea bag. Trust your instincts and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

Author’s Note

I find people’s habits around food super interesting. We get caught up in rules and guilt, and stress about tiny things. But sometimes, you just need to let go. That old green tea bag I found? It reminded me to laugh, challenge what I think I know, and enjoy the little surprises. So, here’s to enjoying the unexpected, one cup after another!

Share your funniest food story in the comments! What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve eaten way past its expiration date?