As a food safety expert with years of experience in the field, I can tell you that consuming expired candy is not something that is generally recommended, but the risks associated with it can vary depending on a number of factors. Let's delve into the potential consequences and the science behind candy spoilage.

**Firstly, the shelf life of candy is often quite long due to its low moisture content, which is not conducive to bacterial growth.** However, just because a candy has passed its 'best by' date does not necessarily mean it is unsafe to eat. The 'best by' date is more about quality and flavor rather than safety. That said, if the candy has been stored improperly, such as in a humid environment, it can become a breeding ground for microbes.

**When it comes to the risk of illness from expired candy, it largely depends on the type of candy and the conditions it has been stored under.** Hard candies, for instance, can last almost indefinitely because of their low water activity, which means they are not hospitable to most bacteria and molds. However, if the candy has been exposed to heat repeatedly, it can lead to changes in texture and appearance.

**"Heat can cause many candies to melt and get too sticky,"** as mentioned by Blakeslee. This is particularly true for candies with higher fat content, like chocolate. When chocolate is exposed to heat, it can develop a powdery look known as bloom. There are two types of bloom: sugar bloom, which occurs when the sugar on the surface crystallizes due to moisture loss, and fat bloom, which happens when cocoa butter separates from the chocolate and rises to the surface. Despite the change in appearance, chocolate with bloom is generally still safe to eat, though it may not taste as good.

**Expired candy can also carry microbes that can make you sick,** but this is more of a risk with candies that have a higher moisture content or have been improperly stored. For instance, if a candy has started to grow mold, it is not safe to eat. Mold can produce toxins that are harmful to health. In addition, if the candy has been contaminated with bacteria that produce toxins, these toxins can remain dangerous even if the bacteria are no longer alive.

**It's also worth noting that the nutritional quality of candy diminishes over time.** Even if it doesn't make you sick, eating expired candy is not the best choice from a nutritional standpoint. The fats in the candy can become rancid, and the sugar can crystallize, affecting the taste and texture.

**In conclusion, while it's not always dangerous to eat expired candy, it's generally not a good idea.** If the candy looks or smells off, or if it has been stored in questionable conditions, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it. When in doubt, it's better to be safe than sorry.

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Expired candy can also carry microbes that can make you sick. ... "Heat can cause many candies to melt and get too sticky," Blakeslee said. "Chocolate can get a powdery look to it - called bloom - because of temperature changes, but it is still fine to eat."Oct 7, 2010read more >>