A small grocery store in Fagersta, Sweden, was found selling corn puffs with relabeled expiration dates, according to reports from multiple media outlets. The snack packages originally expired in July 2010 but had been marked with a new best-before date of September 2026.
The incident came to light during an inspection by Västerås city's environmental administration following public complaints. Food inspector Andreas Berg Mörén from Västerås city told P4 Västmanland that while the store's actions were concerning, the product itself was likely not dangerous. "It's a dry product where not much can happen. It's probably not very tasty after 16 years, but dangerous? No," Berg Mörén reportedly said.
It's a dry product where not much can happen. It's probably not very tasty after 16 years, but dangerous? No,
However, a later report from SVT Västmanland suggests the store may not have been attempting to deceive customers, with the explanation potentially lying with the manufacturer. According to SVT, this particular type of corn puff has only been manufactured since 2022, raising questions about the original claims of 16-year-old snacks.
The store's actions have drawn criticism for attempting to mislead customers, though authorities indicate the primary concern is the deception rather than immediate health risks.