Mooncakes that are ten days past their expiration date, even if they show no signs of mold, have already lost their nutritional value and are not suitable for consumption. The shelf life of mooncakes varies by brand, as they contain moisture and fats and are baked, resulting in a shorter shelf life. There are mainly two production methods for mooncakes in the market: one is produced in a sterile factory environment, away from contamination, which results in a longer shelf life; the other is handmade, which, although it meets hygiene standards and uses similar packaging, has a significantly shorter shelf life.
In consideration of food safety and nutritional value, it is recommended that consumers eat mooncakes immediately after purchasing, buying only as needed to prevent waste. Once any food exceeds its shelf life, its nutritional components rapidly decline, meaning it loses its safety guarantee. Moreover, expired mooncakes may become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to food spoilage, and consumption could burden the intestines, causing diarrhea and other health issues. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the expiration date when purchasing to ensure food safety.
