Navigating food labels can be confusing, particularly when it comes to understanding the various dates marked on packaging. Among the most commonly misunderstood aspects are the “Best Before” and “Use By” dates. While both are crucial for ensuring food safety and quality, they serve different purposes and have distinct implications for how we handle and consume food.
The “Best Before” date indicates when a product is expected to be at its best quality
The “Best Before” date, also known as the “best by” date, is often found on non-perishable items such as cereals, canned goods, and dry products. This date indicates the period during which the food is expected to be at its best quality in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional value. Importantly, the “Best Before” date is a guideline for optimal freshness.
Foods can often be safely consumed after the “Best Before” date has passed, although they might not taste as fresh or have the same texture. For instance, a box of pasta may still be perfectly edible a few months past its “Best Before” date, but the quality of the pasta might be slightly compromised. Similarly, a can of beans might have a diminished flavor but remain safe to eat.
The “Best Before” date on the label is based on the manufacturer’s assessment of how long the food will maintain its desired characteristics. After this date, the food may still be safe to eat, but the quality may not be as good as when it was first purchased.
The “Use By” date indicates the last day a perishable product is safe to consume
On the other hand, the “Use By” date is a critical indicator of food safety. Found on perishable items such as meat, dairy products, and ready-to-eat meals, this date signifies the last day on which the product is safe to consume. The “Use By” date is determined through rigorous testing and is set to ensure that the food remains safe to eat and free from harmful bacteria or pathogens.
If food is past its “Use By” date, it’s safest to discard it. Unlike “Best Before” dates, you should adhere strictly to “Use By” dates. Consuming food past this date can pose health risks, as the product may have deteriorated to the point where it is unsafe to eat. For example, yogurt or ground meat that has passed its “Use By” date could harbor bacteria that could lead to foodborne illnesses.
In addition to regularly reviewing the dates on your food items, proper storage is crucial in order to maximize the shelf life and safety of your food.
For items with “Best Before” dates, storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will help maintain their quality for as long as possible. For perishable items marked with “Use By” dates, refrigeration is often required. Always check the storage instructions on the packaging, as some items may need freezing or other specific conditions to remain safe and fresh.
