THE TRUTH ABOUT EXPIRATION DATES ON PRODUCTS

WHAT THE DATES MEAN

In general, perishable foods such as meat, poultry, eggs and dairy get dates. But those dates aren’t always about spoilage. Some dates simply inform retailers when products are at their best for freshness, taste and texture.

The label types vary:

THE “SELL BY” DATE 
This indicates how long a store should display a product on its shelves. But foods are still flavorful and safe to eat several days after this date if you store them properly.

THE “BEST IF USED BY” DATE this usually comes straight from manufacturers. The product will be freshest and have the best taste and texture if you eat it by this date. But this date does not refer to food safety.

THE “USE BY” DATE also comes from manufacturers. It’s the last date for peak quality. After this date, taste, texture and quality may go downhill, even if food safety does not.

THE “EXPIRATION” DATE is the only packaging date related to food safety. If this date has passed, throw the food out.