As a food safety expert with years of experience in the industry, I can tell you that eating expired chocolate is generally not recommended, but it's not always dangerous either. Here's a breakdown of what you need to consider:
1. Appearance: If the chocolate has changed color, developed white spots (sugar bloom), or has any signs of mold, it's best to discard it.
2. Smell: A strong, off-putting odor is a clear sign that the chocolate has gone bad.
3. Texture: If the chocolate is crumbly or has a strange texture, it may not be safe to eat.
4. Taste: If the chocolate tastes off or has a sour or bitter flavor, it's likely spoiled.
Chocolate can last for a year or more without spoiling, but the quality will degrade over time. While it's unlikely to cause food poisoning, eating expired chocolate can lead to an unpleasant experience. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.
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