Don’t throw away expired yogurts anymore

📌 *Tip: Substitute yogurt for sour cream, buttermilk, or part of the butter/oil in many recipes.*

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## 🥣 2. Add It to Smoothies

Blend expired-but-safe yogurt into smoothies for a **creamy, probiotic-rich boost**. It pairs well with fruits like bananas, berries, and mangoes. Add a splash of milk, honey, or a handful of oats for extra texture.

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## 🧖‍♀️ 3. Make a Soothing Face Mask

Yogurt is rich in **lactic acid and probiotics**, making it a great base for DIY skincare.

### Simple Yogurt Face Mask:

* 2 tbsp yogurt
* 1 tsp honey
* 1 tsp oatmeal (optional)

Mix and apply to clean skin for 10–15 minutes. Rinse off for **soft, exfoliated, and hydrated skin**.

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## 🌿 4. Fertilize Your Garden

Expired yogurt can be added (in moderation) to your **compost pile** or **garden soil**. The natural bacteria can help boost microbial activity in the soil.

✅ Just be sure to **dig it into the soil** — don’t leave it exposed on top, or it might attract pests.

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## 🍗 5. Tenderize Meat

The enzymes and acidity in yogurt help **break down proteins**, making it a fantastic marinade for meats like chicken, lamb, or beef.

### Quick Yogurt Marinade:

* 1 cup yogurt
* Garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and spices

Marinate meat for a few hours (or overnight) for extra tender and flavorful results.

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## 🧀 6. Make Homemade Labneh (Yogurt Cheese)

Slightly older yogurt can be transformed into **labneh**, a thick and creamy yogurt cheese that’s perfect as a spread.

### How to Make:

1. Line a strainer with cheesecloth or a clean dish towel.
2. Spoon in the yogurt and let it drain over a bowl in the fridge for 24–48 hours.
3. Season with herbs, olive oil, or salt.

Delicious on toast, crackers, or in wraps!

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## 🧼 7. Use for Gentle Cleaning

This one’s unusual, but yogurt can **remove tarnish from copper or brass**. Its acidity works similarly to lemon juice or vinegar.

* Apply a thin layer to the tarnished surface, let sit for 30 minutes, then wipe and buff clean.

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## ✅ Final Thoughts

Don’t be too quick to toss those expired yogurts — with a little caution and creativity, you can **put them to good use** and reduce waste. Whether you’re baking, beautifying, gardening, or marinating, yogurt’s versatility makes it a **fridge staple with hidden potential**.

Next time you find an old yogurt cup, check it carefully… and consider giving it a second life. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you.

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Would you like a printable tip sheet or yogurt-based recipes to go with this? Just let me know!