last night's dinner hack was a box of kraft macaroni and cheese best used by may 2011.
review:
macaroni - ages well, no discernable difference from fresh macaroni.
cheese chowder - orange brown instead of bright orange, distinct smell not present in fresh cheese power (don't know how to describe).
unified taste (i also added a slice of havarti cheese and some romano/parmasan blend). ok if you hold your breath while bringing the macaroni towards the mouth. the unusual smell fucks up the taste if you breathe it in while or immediately before eating.