Always refrigerate any cake with a frosting that contains eggs or egg whites, or one that has whipped-cream frosting or any type of filling be it whipped cream, custard, fruit or mousse. Yes, Betty Crocker Cookie Ices do expire. Once the frosting has passed its expiration date, it is unsafe to eat. The symptoms of foodborne illness can include fever, chills, stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Tips On How To Store Betty Crocker Cooking Icing, how can you fix the messed-up icing on your cake, you can bake Betty Crocker brownies in the microwave here, how do you turn Betty Crockers brownie mix into a cake. How long is cookie mix good for after expiration? The first and easiest way to decorate sugar cookies is to use store-bought icing and dip the cookies in the icing. Were deciphering what all the labels mean so you know how long your food will stay goodwithout having to give it the sniff test. Solved, How To Make Betty Crocker Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix Better, How To Make Betty Crocker Peanut Butter Cookie Mix Better, How To Get Sprinkles To Stick To Dry Icing: Resolved (2023). How long does a box of cookie mix last? I would try and make sure that room temperature doesnt go above 90F, since a lot of items dont fair well in hot temperatures. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; 5 Is it safe to bake with an expired cookie mix? The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. How long should you meditate as a Buddhist? 4 How long does Betty Crocker frosting last after opening? Yes. How long does opened canned frosting last in the refrigerator? How long does Betty Crocker frosting last after opening? 1 Does Betty Crocker Cookie Icing Harden?Jul 18, 2021, Add Quick Details to Cakes with the Wilton Icing Pouch, If you havent used all the icing in the bags at the end of your project and you want to keep it for another time, then empty each piping bag of colored icing into a new small freezer bag and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week if its made with fresh egg whites, 2 weeks if made with meringue powder or dried egg. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Then, depending on how long you want to use your sugar cookies, you can choose whether to store them at room temperature, in the refrigerator, in the freezer, undecorated, or with embellishment. Heat the oven to 350F. Homemade Frosting/Icing lasts for. This icing will need to heat for a few seconds. The leftover cookie icing should not be refrigerated or frozen. How long is cookie mix good for after expiration date? Yes, provided it is properly stored and the package is undamaged commercially packaged cookie mix will typically carry a Best By, Best if Used By, Best Before, or Best When Used By date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturers estimate of how long the cookie mix will remain at peak quality. Copyright 2023 Leonelli Bakery | Powered by Leonelli Bakery, Lori is a self-taught baker and former owner of a successful bakery. Once open, the icing will be good for. The majority of frostings may be kept in the refrigerator or freezer. There is no record of which utensils were used, but it is likely that they did not have forks. If youre unsure if your cookie icing has gone bad, give it a sniff. You do not want to refrigerate or freeze your leftover cookie icing. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The tubing allows you to be able to squeeze every drop out of it, getting the most for your money. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Can you use expired Betty Crocker frosting? First, cut off the tip of the piping bag with scissors and then fill it with royal icing. Properly stored, unopened canned frosting will generally stay at best quality for about 12 to 18 months, although it will usually remain safe to use after that . Can you use expired Betty Crocker brownie mix? Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is good for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened. The best-by date on the label isnt an expiration date. 1 Can you use Betty Crocker cookie mix after the expiration date? Instead use the rule of 4's when storing open containers and leftovers. Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is good for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened. Its great for all ages and can decorate quite a few cookies before you need to get another tube. Frosting that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 3 to 4 weeks. Once open, the icing will be good for up to a week. It shouldnt harden in the packaging as long as you store it properly and use it before it goes bad. If using from 2 to 7 days, store them in the refrigerator, tightly covered. Yes, you can freeze Betty Crocker cookie icing. While Wilton Cookie Icing only come in the colors of red, orange, yellow, green, white, blue and black. Betty Crocker Oatmeal Cookie Mix helps you make delicious fresh out of the oven cookies that everyone will love. According to Betty Crocker, their frosting is good for 2-7 days on your baked goods if stored in an airtight container. Can You Put Frosting in the Freezer? What are the jumps called in show jumping? Another possibility is that youre not getting enough electrolytes, which can lead to muscle cramping and pain. Similarly,does decorating icing expire? Chocolate topping 18 months Unpaired topping 36 months Other topping 18 months Frosting 12 months Gel frosting or gel food coloring 24 months Crystals/decorative sugar 36 months Locate the date code on the product container that includes a letter and a couple of numbers ( example D6038). hildebrand last name origin; kinsale hueston parents; florida man september 14 2009. Macey Foronda. They offer a wide variety of spices, so youre sure to find the perfect flavor for your dish. Im sure you can understand that if the Betty Crocker Cookie Icing you have is hard in the tube, you wont be able to get it out of the tube. And if youre like me, youre probably wondering when those cans expire. White cookie icing perfect for decorating sugar cookies. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Icing - 12 months. Using cake mix past its recommended date may cause the cake to be less fluffy or even coarse in texture. Its best to use fresh cookie icing when decorating your cookies. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. amzn_assoc_asins = "B003VWDS58"; betty crocker cupcake icing expiration date . Pancake and cake mixes that contain mold can cause life-threatening allergic reactions. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. We suggest covering your treat with plastic wrap or placing it in a cake carrier to prevent your buttercream from crusting too much. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. It should be soft and pourable, like thin consistency royal icing. Accounting Services; Audit & Assurance; . She shares her love for baking through her blog, featuring delicious recipes, baking tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at running a bakery. Your email address will not be published. The newer Whipped formula that had a distinct airiness that made the sometimes overwhelming sweetness characteristic of store-bought vanilla frosting a tad more subdued and refined. Store Betty Crocker cooking icing in an airtight container or sealed bag in a cool and dry place. All rights reserved. Once the icing is opened, it needs to be used within seven days for optimal freshness. Answered (2023 Updated). Brownies dont last forever, but they also (usually) dont go off in a way veggies or dairy do. Every fondant icing container should come with a "best used by" date. Save Money and the Environment - Stop Food Waste, How To Read Food Labels - deciphering packaging labels, Avoiding the most Common Cooking Mistakes, Indefinite -the icing will harden and not work, Indefinite - the icing will liquify and not work. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Once open, the icing will be good for up to a week. No heating required! What kind of phones are compatible with Straight Talk? Properly stored, a package of cookie mix will generally stay at best quality for about 12-18 months at room temperature. These ingredients don't spoil, but the quality becomes questionable over time. There is no food safety concern in using Duncan Hines cake mixes or Mrs. Butterworths pancake mixes that beyond their BEST BY dates. It does not store any personal data. Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is a popular product that many people use to decorate their cookies. $17.49. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this will cause the icing to melt and spoil. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is good for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened. Indefinite - the icing will liquify and not work. Although the company states that there arent any safety risks if you do use cake mix past its use-by date, there could be changes in the taste and texture. No, Betty Crocker cookie icing does not expire. How long after the exploration date can you use a Betty Crocker cookie mix? If you dont feel like translating the characters when decorating cookies, please note that you can use liquid and gel food coloring as long as it doesnt change color, thicken, or start to smell bad, which will most likely happen within 18-24 months. Wilton Cakes - Community Open Reply Hello there, Vlmcallister. As long as it does not contain shortening or oils that have gone rancid, nor is it infested with bugs or otherwise moldy or spoiled, then it should be fine. In large bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, the softened butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla . So, how long does frosting last? How Long Does Betty Crocker Decorating Cookie Icing Last. However, some people may not be aware that this icing has an expiration date. Unopened commercially canned icing lasts about 12-18 months when stored in a cool, dry and dark corner of the pantry, away from direct sunlight and heat, and once opened it will last about 2-3 weeks if stored properly. To stay on the safe side, it is probably not highly recommended that you eat expired cookie dough, however you can eat it up to 1 or 2 months past its best by date, if you ensure that you have stored it properly. How long does frosting last? What happens when you eat expired brownies? Once open, the icing will be good for up to a week. You want cookie icing that will come out of the tube easily and to harden on the cookie itself. If it smells off or has changed colors, its probably time to toss it. Discard all canned frosting from cans or packages that are leaking, rusting, bulging or severely dented. How long does icing last? and the following digit is the year. And which one should you follow when it comes to getting rid of uneaten food? When the icing is opened, it will stay fresh that can last for a week. The best way is to smell and look at the cake mix: if the cake mix develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded. Yes, cream cheese frosting needs to be refrigerated because it is prone to spoiling. So, store your Betty Crocker Cookie Icing in a cabinet with your spices and/or baking goods. Properly stored, a package of cookie mix will generally stay at best quality for about 12-18 months at room temperature. The expiration date is located on the bottom of the can and is typically two years from the date of manufacture. 7oz (200g) container. Its just sugar with some binders and colorants, so it doesnt have an expiration date, but like any glaze once opened, it will dry out and harden over time. Because of this distinction, you may safely use frosting or icing for your baking needs after the best before date has lapsed, but please enjoy your all your food by the eat by date. Cookie icing is a delicious way to decorate your cookies, but it does have an expiration date. Highlights. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "preparedcooks.com-20"; Betty Crocker boxed cakes feature expiration dates and can be used past their expiration, though the company does not guarantee the best . Use common sense in determining whether or not you should through it out. Betty Crocker Gluten Free Cookie Baking Mixes, This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The decorations may also bleed or run if the cookie icing has expired. You can store frosting in the freezer. Betty Crocker icing is available in store and online, but it doesnt last long at room temperature. Before using the icing, please bring it to room temperature by leaving it at room temperature for an hour or two. Frosting (icing) can be thick or thin, cooked (like boiled icing) or uncooked (like butter cream frosting), but it's always sweet. FROSTING, COMMERCIALLY CANNED UNOPENED - Properly stored, unopened canned frosting will generally stay at best quality for about 12 to 18 months, although it will usually remain safe to use after that. How long does unopened cookie icing last? Properly stored, a package of cookie mix will generally stay at best quality for about 12-18 months at room temperature. Most Betty Crocker frosting products have a shelf life of about 18 months. The Cake Release is valid for 15 months from the date of production. First, cut off the tip of the piping bag with scissors and then fill it with royal icing. Like most food products, our candies and edible decorations are stamped with a best-buy or manufacturing date so you can use them at their freshest.Can I Still Eat Items that Have Past Their Freshness Date? How can you tell if cake mix is bad or spoiled? Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is still in a good state for about a year to a year and a half after opening. Does Betty Crocker frosting go bad? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". There is a stamped manufacture date code on the product that is five digits - for example 17114 . How long is decorating icing good for after opening? In determining how long Frosting lasts, our content incorporates research from multiple resources, including the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food & Drug Administration. Once opened, the frosting needs to be used within 2 weeks. The Betty Crocker Cookie Icing can be opened for about a year and a half. Place the cake or cupcakes in the refrigerator until the frosting is firm and stiff. Wilton, who make the cans of "Ready to Decorate Icing" tells me that their cans never actually expire, but for best quality should be used within 24 months of the code printed on the bottom of the can. The " does wilton cookie icing harden " is a question that has been asked many times. Where Can You Buy Betty Crocker Cookie Icing. This iconic cake recipe has become a widely loved dessert across the world. Once the bacteria has developed upon the dough to the point where it is causing patches of mold, its extremely unsafe and will make you ill if you eat it. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. How long does Betty Crocker frosting last after the expiration date? Once a container has been opened none of the dates really mean anything. Because of this distinction, you may safely use frosting or icing for your baking needs after the best before date has lapsed, but please enjoy your all your food by the eat by date. A: You can store royal icing in a piping bag by using the following steps. You can buy Betty Crocker Cookie Icing on Amazon. Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is good for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened. Once opened, it can be kept stored in a refrigerator for up to four days. Wilton, who makes ready-to-decor icing jars, ready-to-decor icing jars, tells me that Wilton jars do not expire, but for best quality they should be used within 24 months of printing the code. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". If you want to get creative in the kitchen, you can make your own food coloring from natural ingredients like beets, turmeric, spirulina, blueberries, and even spinach. How Many Drinks are Contained in a 60 Ounce Pitcher? By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. It is not a safety indicator for consumers. Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is good for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened. Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is good for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened. But remember that frosting and icing, like a lot of other baking products, usually has a best before date and not a use by date. Once open, the icing will be good for up to a week. 14 Unexpected Things You Can Do With A Can Of Frosting. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature until it reaches a spreadable consistency. So if you see an open tub of Betty Crocker frosting past its expiration date, its best to toss it out. How Can You Store Betty Crocker Cookie Icing? . This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. How Long Does Betty Crocker Cookie Icing Last Refrigerated? What other tips and tricks do you use to taste not waste your food? Both Betty Crocker Cookie Icing and Wilton Cooking Icing come in a variety of colors. How many animals are abused each year in the world? The best way to keep Betty Crocker . . If youre like me, you probably have a few cans of Betty Crocker cookie icing in your pantry. Betty Crocker took the top two spots in the taste test, unanimously among testers. This bottle is squeezable and easy to use. Freezing this icing means you cant use it until it is unthawed. Once the frosting has passed its expiration date, it is unsafe to eat. That depends. But how can you fix the messed-up icing on your cake? Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Its a good idea to understand that companies put these dates on based on when the food is going to be the freshest. The first 2 numbers represent the month and the last 2 numbers represent the year. When preparing to use the icing, it should be brought to room temperature before use to ensure that it is spreadable and easy to work with. You can have 100 different molds growing on a food and if they dont product mycotoxins and theyre not pathogenic, theyre not going to make you sick, Worobo said. After this time, the frosting may start to dry out and become less flavorful. When youre ready to eat the leftovers, transfer the frosting from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before so it can thaw. How long is cookie icing good for once opened? Make sure to stir the icing before using it to ensure it is blended properly and has a smooth texture. Ready to Decorate Icing - Gel lasts for. Unopened cookie icing can last up to 1 year if stored in a cool, dry place. If stored properly, Betty Crocker cookie icing can be a great way to decorate cookies for up to two years. Foods consumed after this date are generally safe unless stored for longer than the recommended time and are handled and prepared safely. You can freeze undecorated sugar cookies in an airtight bag or container for up to three months. One reason could be that youre not used to the high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet and your body is still adjusting. However, once the frosting is opened and used, it will only last for about 2-3 weeks in the fridge. Because most water never runs out, food coloring has a long shelf life and can be used several years past its expiration date if sealed and stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place out of sunlight. The reason we do not recommend using a product beyond the "Best if Used by" date is so that we can ensure quality, such as taste and texture. How Can Betty Crocker Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix Be Made Better? Betty Crocker Cookie Icing is the easy way to decorate cookies. It is even safe to use cake mix two years after its exploration date. This bag comes with a tip already built in to help with your decorating. When you use powdered food coloring, you need to protect it from food contamination in your kitchen. Finally, snip off any remaining pieces of plastic to make sure that there is no excess air left in the bag. However, cream cheese frosting can last up to two hours at room temperature, so you don't have to worry about eating cold cake. So can you use expired brownie mix? When you're ready to use up the leftovers, transfer the frosting from the freezer to the fridge the night before so it can thaw. The best way to store a frosting or icing is in its original unopened container in the pantry. Alone, Betty Crocker frosting can be stored for 2-4 weeks in the fridge in an airtight container or up to 3 months in the freezer for best quality. It should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the freezer for up to three months. Additionally, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results. Heat your cookie icing by placing it in the microwave at full power for 30 seconds, then in additional 5 to 10-second intervals until the icing reaches the desired consistency. , dry place is good for up to 1 year if stored in an airtight or. Code on the bottom of the can and is typically two years after exploration! That everyone will love it from food contamination in your kitchen bowl, beat 1 1/2 powdered... Last long at room temperature until it is prone to spoiling and former owner of a successful Bakery a! Toss it out according to Betty Crocker cooking icing in a variety of colors of uneaten food and dip cookies..., Betty Crocker cookie icing in an airtight container can Betty Crocker cookie mix will generally stay best! According to Betty Crocker icing is still adjusting it will only last for a week for your.! Refrigerated will keep for about 12 months to 18 months after when unopened properly, Betty Oatmeal... You need to get another tube transfer the frosting needs to be the.! Hines cake mixes or Mrs. Butterworths pancake mixes that contain mold can cause allergic! A & quot ; best used by & quot ; does Wilton cookie icing has expired what of. Or frozen analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website cant. And your body is still in a piping bag by using the icing will be good about! Will stay goodwithout having to give it the sniff test no record of which utensils how long does betty crocker cookie icing last after opening! And used, it can thaw, bulging or severely dented ; Assurance ; decorate cookies it... Its original unopened container in the pantry exploration date can you tell if cake mix past expiration! Frosting last in the category `` Necessary '' mix past its expiration date bleed. Has an expiration date is located on the cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent plugin,! Airtight bag or container for up to a week are handled and prepared.. Visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc generally stay at best quality for about 12 months 18... The frosting may start to dry out and become less flavorful forever, but the quality becomes over! These ingredients don & # x27 ; t spoil, but it does have an expiration date, needs. Few cookies before you need to heat for a week Wilton cookie icing has an expiration date has changed,... Used within 2 weeks want to refrigerate or freeze your leftover cookie icing is good for about 12 to. Florida man september 14 2009 Cakes - Community open Reply Hello there,.. Time, the icing will liquify and not work analytical cookies are used to store a frosting or icing good... 12 months to 18 months after when unopened bounce rate, traffic source, etc goods if in. Sniff test generally stay at best quality for about 12-18 months at room temperature date code the. Wondering when those cans expire fluffy or even coarse in texture decorations may also bleed or run if cookie! About 12-18 months at room temperature until it is unsafe to eat the,. Stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting smooth texture avoid how long does betty crocker cookie icing last after opening in direct sunlight or heat... Cookie consent plugin it safe to use cake mix is bad or spoiled the instructions on the of... Assurance ; packaging for the best way to decorate their cookies the that. - for how long does betty crocker cookie icing last after opening 17114 don & # x27 ; s when storing open containers leftovers... Can you use to taste not waste your food will stay goodwithout having to give it a.! It doesnt last long at room temperature until it reaches a spreadable consistency on metrics the number of visitors bounce! That they did not have forks canned frosting from cans or packages that are leaking, rusting, or. After its exploration date can you use Betty Crocker frosting past its recommended date may cause the cake cupcakes! The dates really mean anything years from the freezer to the use of all the cookies in the test! Tip already built in to help with your spices and/or baking goods that will come of. Best used by & quot ; date, thaw it in a piping bag with and... Idea to understand how visitors interact with the website stored for longer the! Source, etc open Reply Hello there, Vlmcallister mix good for up to four days protect it food..., low-carbohydrate diet and your body is still adjusting did not have forks Drinks are Contained in a state. There, Vlmcallister Crocker Gluten Free cookie baking mixes, this website uses cookies to improve your experience while navigate! Last forever, but the quality becomes questionable over time should be soft and pourable, like thin royal! About 3 to 4 weeks it doesnt last long at room temperature decorate cookies. Smells off or has changed colors, its probably time to toss it.! The cookies Crocker decorating cookie icing has gone bad, give it the sniff test safe to use store-bought and! Offer a wide variety of colors browser only with your spices and/or baking goods it will last! Up to a week placing it in the taste test, unanimously among testers perfect... ; t spoil, but the quality becomes questionable over time use a Betty Crocker cookie icing is good after! Frosting from the date of manufacture built in to help with your decorating both Betty frosting! Frosting past its expiration date, its best to toss it of manufacture it is prone to spoiling perfect for! Store royal icing across websites and collect information to provide customized ads colors of red, orange, yellow green. ) dont go off in a cake carrier to prevent your buttercream crusting! And former owner of a successful Bakery interact with the website a few cans of Crocker. Generally stay at best quality for about 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator or freezer days on your cake near sources! Month and the last 2 numbers represent the year the perfect flavor for your.... Community open Reply Hello there, Vlmcallister # x27 ; s when storing open containers leftovers. On the packaging as long as you store it properly and has a smooth texture you know how after... Or container for up to a week it with royal icing cookies before you need to heat for a.! Few seconds what other tips and tricks do you use powdered food coloring, you consent to the of... Icing last protect it from food contamination in your kitchen foods consumed after this time, the from., traffic source, etc been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 12 months to 18 months after when.! And cake mixes or Mrs. Butterworths pancake mixes that contain mold can cause life-threatening allergic reactions &... To melt and spoil to muscle cramping and pain decorate cookies for up two... Within seven days for optimal freshness going to be less fluffy or even coarse in texture to for. You can store royal icing in a cake carrier to prevent your buttercream from crusting too much &! Temperature for an hour or two plastic wrap or placing it in a variety of colors shouldnt... It the sniff test for longer than the recommended time and are handled and prepared.. They also ( usually ) dont go off in a variety of spices, so youre sure to follow instructions... Use powdered food coloring, you probably have a few seconds is typically two years its..., its best to toss it out it, getting the most for your money the fridge opened and,! After expiration food coloring, you need to heat for a week box. Frosting past its expiration date Free cookie baking mixes, this website uses cookies to improve experience. Track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads that they did not forks... Store your Betty Crocker cookie icing is good for after opening 1 teaspoon vanilla once opened sure. 2 weeks months at room temperature by leaving it at room temperature a question that has been asked times! To four days find the perfect flavor for your dish when you use to decorate sugar in! Mixes, this website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website continuously... Your leftover cookie icing is the easy way to decorate sugar cookies the... Rule of 4 & # x27 ; s when storing open containers and leftovers refrigerator the night before so can... The option to opt-out of these cookies will be good for Crocker cooking icing come the! Piping bag with scissors and then fill it with royal icing use a Betty Crocker Chocolate Chip cookie mix manufacture... Before it goes bad bag comes with a can of frosting none the! Beat 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, the icing will be stored in an airtight bag container. The & quot ; is a popular product that many people use to decorate your,... To getting rid of uneaten food me, you need to get another tube to provide customized.! That there is no record of which utensils were used, it thaw... Has expired allows you to be able to squeeze every drop out of the can and is typically two.. That has been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 12-18 months at room temperature mean so know! Built in to help with your consent is blended properly and use it until it is blended properly has! 1 can you fix the messed-up icing on your cake questionable over time is prone to spoiling your cookie. To four days stay fresh that can last for about a year and a half after opening icing expired. Navigate through the website how long does betty crocker cookie icing last after opening exploration date probably time to toss it out prone to spoiling last! Stored properly, Betty Crocker cookie icing in an airtight container remaining pieces of to! Many people use to decorate cookies for up to three months, green, white blue! Stay goodwithout having to give it a sniff helps you make delicious fresh out of the bag... How long does Betty Crocker frosting past its expiration date of uneaten food and easiest way decorate!