Unless the package has been compromised, it will be fine. If it is past the 'best by' date like maybe a week to a month, then it will taste fine, even maybe a couple of months, but~~ keep in mind the older it gets, the more likely it will TASTE different, as it won't be as fresh.
About the only thing that would go bad is any fat that is added. If it has gone rancid you will be able to tell by smelling it. If you are not sure add a bit of milk to a spoon full of the powder. (don't waste a lot of milk if you are going to have to toss it out. The added milk might make any bad aromas more noticeable. If it still smells alright continue with the cheesecake following the package directions you can incorporate the bit that you did the "test" on.
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Unless the package has been compromised, it will be fine. If it is past the 'best by' date like maybe a week to a month, then it will taste fine, even maybe a couple of months, but~~ keep in mind the older it gets, the more likely it will TASTE different, as it won't be as fresh.
Best before? Safe
Use by? Stay away.
Open the package and smell it.
About the only thing that would go bad is any fat that is added. If it has gone rancid you will be able to tell by smelling it. If you are not sure add a bit of milk to a spoon full of the powder. (don't waste a lot of milk if you are going to have to toss it out. The added milk might make any bad aromas more noticeable. If it still smells alright continue with the cheesecake following the package directions you can incorporate the bit that you did the "test" on.
I made instant mashed potatoes that had a best when used by date of nearly 2 years ago. No problem!
Open the packages - does it look right? Good. Is it dry? Good. No bugs or mold? Good. Does it smell off? Bad.
In general there really isn't anything in there that can go bad in a way to make you sick.
that date is for freshness and flavor and not safety.
As long as the powder doesn't smell old( and you won't mistake THAT smell for anything else) it probably is fine to use.