Dear Heloise: How long is canned food good to use after the "USE BY" date printed on the can? I just threw out more than 20 cans and now wonder if it was necessary. - Margie F. in Oregon

It may not have been necessary! If the cans are in good condition and have been stored properly (in a cool, dry, dark place), then the food should be safe to eat after the date passes. However, taste and texture of foods can change over time. Make sure the cans do not have any bulging, leakage or dents before eating the contents. - Heloise

Dear Heloise: I must go on a gluten-free diet. It's crazy how many foods I can't have anymore if I want to feel good. My friend told me that most grocery stores now have gluten-free aisles. I called stores in my area and found only one, but many stores have a list that you can ask for to let you know what gluten-free foods they carry. - Linda in California

Linda, you are right - there does seem to be an increase in people requiring gluten-free foods. Several stores in Texas do not have lists available in the stores, but a list of gluten-free products is posted on the stores' websites.

Many stores are starting to have a section or aisles for gluten-free foods, so shop around, because there are more gluten-free products available daily! - Heloise

Dear Heloise: My granddaughter has type 1 diabetes. I save side and front panels of her favorite packaged foods (brownie mixes, macaroni and cheese, cereal, etc.). These are a source of information on single-serving sizes and carbohydrates. These can be saved in clear plastic sleeves in a three-ring binder. - Carol R., via email

This is a really good hint not only for someone with diabetes, but also anyone with a food allergy or on a special diet. - Heloise

Dear Heloise: I've used one of your helpful hints every time I make deviled eggs that I think is worth repeating. After mixing the ingredients for the deviled eggs, put the mixture in a plastic bag and cut off a corner. Squeeze the mixture into the egg white. It is so quick and easy. No mess to clean up, and you are finished in no time. If you're like me, this is the way to go! - Lynda in Texas

Love, love, love this hint! Easy to do, and no mess to clean up! Plus tasty deviled eggs, too. For a different taste, add a can of deviled ham to the yolk mixture. Yummy! What could be better? - Heloise

Dear Heloise: Here is a good way to stretch meatloaf. Make the meatloaf and, before baking, mix in some stuffing. Just put the meat and stuffing together, mix well and bake the meatloaf as usual. - K.P. in New York
