Some people I know throw out good the minute the date of the package arrives. As if, a magical transformation occurs on that date to suddenly make the product inedible. I have always disagreed with this food-wasting action. Instead, I push the limit to when the food starts to smell, look, or taste a little funny. As it turns out, my instincts on this debate are right.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), foods should still be safe after the date if handled and stored properly.

It seems that other experts in the field agree. You don't have to believe me, but in an effort to save the wasting of perfectly good food just because of a date printed on a package, hear it from the people who make the rules:

• "If something is past its date, and stored properly, often...

Looking to save a ton of money on your ever growing espresso and cappuccino habit? Making espresso at home can prove to be a very enjoyable and cost efficient process that will stop you from spending five bucks a pop for that latte.

To help lessen the burden of finding the right machine, you should understand which machines do what. This will enable you to make an informed decision.

Manual Espresso Machines

If you’re looking for a machine that will feed your love of making espresso, pretty much by hand, then a manual machine is for you. There is nothing electrical at all in a manual machine. Your hand is what will control the pressure for the coffee as well as the water. You’re also going to have to manually compress the grinds (tamp) before brewing. There is a learning curve and progression in...