Hello, I'm a confectionery expert with years of experience in the candy industry. When it comes to the shelf life of candy, there are several factors to consider, including the type of candy, its ingredients, and how it's stored.

Candy can indeed go bad or expire, but the process is often more about the change in texture and flavor rather than a safety concern. Hard candies, for example, can last a very long time, sometimes even a year or more, without posing a health risk. However, they may become sticky or change in taste over time.
Chocolate, on the other hand, can develop a white, powdery substance known as bloom, which is a result of fat or sugar crystals rising to the surface. This doesn't make the chocolate unsafe to eat, but it does affect the quality.

The shelf life of candy can be extended by proper storage. Keeping candy in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and in a sealed container can help maintain its freshness for a longer period. It's also important to check the packaging for any best by or use by dates, which are provided by manufacturers as a guideline for peak quality.

In summary, while candy can expire, the term is more about quality degradation than safety. Always store candy properly and use your senses (sight, smell, and taste) to determine if it's still good to eat.

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While candy will not expire like some foods which will be repulsive or make a person ill if eaten, expired candy will be tasteless, misshapen and can be moldy. The American Consumerist suggests that it is not a good idea to eat candy that is not fresh candy.read more >>