Helpful Hints

DEAR HELOISE: A number of years ago, I purchased a good amount of food, canned goods, etc. (a stockpile in case of an emergency). A review indicates that many have a "use by" date that has expired. Should I throw these in the dump, or can they be safely used by some organization?

-- R.B. McArdle,

Hot Springs

DEAR READER: It all depends on how long beyond the expiration date, storage conditions and the type of food. I defer to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the source on this one.

Indicator 1: If the cans (meats and vegetables) have no dents, no bulges and are not leaking, it's a "go" to use or donate in two to five years' time.

Indicator 2: If they have been stored safely away in a cool, dry place (not a damp basement or hot or freezing garage), then it's a "go."

Indicator 3: High-acid foods, like tomatoes or pineapple, have a much shorter shelf life of 12-18 months. These are a maybe/maybe not.

DEAR HELOISE: I had a problem separating stacked coffee filters when making coffee. I attempted to retrieve one while my finger was wet from another duty. The filter popped right out with a slight pinch upward. Now I moisten my finger before reaching for the filters. It makes the procedure so much easier.

-- Scottie in Little Rock

DEAR READER: Hey, Scottie, a simple hint can make the morning go well. Do say "hi" to my friends in your city. I enjoyed my visit and a stop at the newspaper when I last gave a speech there.

DEAR HELOISE: Wintertime is soup and stew time. My freezer space is at a premium. I had an "aha" moment when it occurred to me to add only some of the required liquid, making a "condensed soup" for storage. I then add the rest of the liquid when reheating. Some things seem so obvious after I figure them out.

-- M.B.,

Mount Vernon, Va.

DEAR READER: The best hints come during those unexpected -- as you say, "aha" -- moments! When cooking soup, add less salt than normal and let individuals salt their portion. You taste less sodium in hot foods than cold. Also, use up the last of a bag of pretzels for a crunchy topping.

DEAR HELOISE: I bought a set of measuring spoons. I decided to keep using the old set. I keep one spoon in my sugar bowl, one in my baking-soda container, one in my coffee canister, etc.

-- Ashley M.,

Springfield, Mo.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email

Heloise@Heloise.com

Food on 02/25/2015

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