An NHS doctor has issued an urgent health warning that could change how you view the contents of your refrigerator forever. Dr. Sermed Mezher, a prominent medical professional, is sounding the alarm about dangerous kitchen habits that millions of Brits practice without realizing the potentially serious consequences.
The Milk Mistake Millions Make
According to Dr. Mezher, one of the most common and dangerous errors people make involves milk consumption. "I would never drink milk past its use-by date," the doctor stated emphatically. While many people rely on the traditional "sniff test" to determine if dairy products are safe, this method could be putting your health at serious risk.
Why Use-By Dates Matter More Than You Think
Dr. Mezher explains that use-by dates exist for crucial safety reasons, particularly for vulnerable groups. "The use-by date is about safety and is used on foods that go off quickly, such as meat, dairy and ready-to-eat meals," he clarified in his recent social media post that's been viewed millions of times.
The distinction between use-by and best-before dates is critical. Use-by dates indicate when food may become unsafe to consume, while best-before dates relate to quality rather than safety.
The Hidden Dangers in Your Dairy
Consuming milk past its use-by date can expose you to harmful bacteria including:
- E. coli
- Listeria
- Salmonella
- Campylobacter
These pathogens can cause severe food poisoning, with symptoms ranging from unpleasant gastrointestinal distress to life-threatening complications for vulnerable individuals.
Who's Most at Risk?
While anyone can fall ill from contaminated dairy products, certain groups face greater danger:
- Pregnant women
- Young children
- The elderly
- Individuals with compromised immune systems
For these vulnerable populations, what might be a mild illness for others could become a serious medical emergency.
Beyond Milk: Other Kitchen Dangers
Dr. Mezher's warning extends beyond dairy products. He highlights several other common food safety mistakes that could be putting your family's health at risk, including improper storage of raw meats and inadequate cooking temperatures.
The bottom line: When it comes to use-by dates, it's better to be safe than sorry. That extra day of pushing your luck with milk could lead to days of illness and potentially serious health complications.
