A Shenzhen man developed jaundice hepatitis after eating two-year-old stored noodles and expired cold medicine—recovering after one week in hospital.

Social Context

China’s Food Safety Law bans consumption of expired staples, and the National Medical Products Administration mandates clear expiry labeling. Household storage habits—especially in humid southern regions—are targeted by Guangdong’s ‘Safe Pantry’ public awareness campaign launched in 2024.

Safety Tip

Discard dry goods more than 12 months past expiry—even if unopened—as moisture absorption can enable mycotoxin growth undetectable by sight or smell.