Food labels can be confusing, including words like “sell by”, “best before” and “use by”. There are limited federal requirements that product expiration dates must be labeled for safety. Manufacturers choose their own phrases to describe expected product quality rather than safety.
California is the first in the nation to ban consumer-facing “sell by” dates, with the law taking effect July 1, which will be replaced with a code for retailers only. The two exceptions are infant formula and eggs – these will continue to be labeled “Sell”. The National Farm Law Center states that labels will now be limited to “best if used by” for quality and “use by” for safety. This law has come in to help reduce food wastage.
sell by
This date tells retailers how long to display a product. It is often found on highly perishable goods, such as fresh meat and milk. Foods are often safe to consume after their “sell by” date, and some retailers discount them as the date approaches. Because spoilage can occur quickly, these products should be used immediately after purchase.
Best if used before/by
This date tells when a product will be at its best taste or quality. This is not a buy or protect date. Food may still be acceptable to eat after this date, although its flavor or quality may be reduced.
use by
Similar to the “best by” date, this recommended date indicates when a product should be consumed for the highest quality. The product may still be safe after the date, but it may not taste as fresh.
freeze by
This date tells consumers when a product should be frozen to maintain the highest quality. This is not a buy or protect date.
How do you know when food is no longer safe?
Since most food product dates are related to quality rather than safety, they are not reliable standards for when food should be discarded. Signs of spoilage such as unusual odor, texture, or mold are better indicators that the food should not be eaten.
In general, most unopened canned foods are safe to eat even after the recommended dates if they have been stored properly and there are no signs of spoilage. However, canned foods can also be unsafe if their containers are tainted, swollen, or otherwise damaged.
Important exceptions: baby formula and eggs
There are two notable exceptions to these federal guidelines for food products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires a “use by” date on infant formula to ensure nutritional quality and safety. Additionally, the US Department of Agriculture mandates a pack date for poultry products and thermally processed, commercially sterile products to help identify production lots.
Date-labeling requirements for fresh eggs vary by state.
Can food be donated after the date has passed?
Yes. Although the quality of perishable foods may decline after the produce date has passed, they may still be nutritious if they show no signs of spoilage. Food banks and consumers should check appearance, odor, and texture before distribution or use.
Reporting by Anitra Johnson and Jamesetta Miller Walker, USA TODAY Network/Delaware News Journal via Reuters Connect