Buying in bulk from wholesale clubs can be a great way to save money and reduce packaging on some of your favorite everyday items. But buying in bulk can have its perils when the item you're buying has a short shelf life. When buying perishable foods in bulk, it's best to avoid items like ketchup, mustard, mayo and other condiments. Most families will not go through the entire supply before it goes bad; dollar for dollar, it's better to buy these items in normal-sized jars. One other item to avoid? Healthy brown rice. Brown rice has a shelf life of only six months because it retains its natural oils and fatty acids; when it goes bad, it takes on a rancid taste. White rice, which is free of those fats, has a shelf life of 30 years.
Advertisement