Short Answer: If you accidentally eat expired pepperoni, you may get sick from food poisoning, as the meat may contain harmful bacteria and preservatives.
Pepperoni is a type of cured sausage that is usually made from a mixture of pork and beef, seasoned with spices such as paprika, garlic, and pepper.
It is often sliced and used as a topping for pizza or as an ingredient in various dishes.
If you accidentally eat expired pepperoni, you may experience symptoms of food poisoning such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
This is because it contains salt and sodium nitrate, which are used to preserve the meat and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
However, over time, these preservatives may lose their effectiveness and allow the meat to spoil.
Salt and sodium nitrate can also have negative effects on your health, such as increasing your blood pressure and your risk of certain cancers.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit your intake of pepperoni and other processed meats, especially if they are past their expiration date.
It is quite uncommon to eat expired pepperoni, as most people tend to consume it within a reasonable period of time.
However, if you do happen to eat some, you should seek medical attention if your symptoms are severe or persist for more than 24 hours.
You may also need to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and take over-the-counter medications to ease your discomfort.
To avoid accidental eating of expired pepperoni, you should always check the packaging for any signs of damage, leaks, or mold.
You should also store it properly, either in the refrigerator or the freezer, depending on how long you plan to keep it.
Refrigerated pepperoni can last for up to a week after opening, while frozen pepperoni can last for up to nine months.
Finally, remember, pepperoni is a delicious but potentially harmful food, so you should always consume it with caution and moderation.