What You Need to Know About Food Expiration Dates

You’ve probably seen them on nearly every food product: “Best by,” “Use by,” “Sell by.” These labels are everywhere, but do you really understand what they mean? Misinterpreting food expiration dates can lead to unnecessary waste—or worse, foodborne illness. Here’s everything you need to know to shop smarter, store safer, and eat with confidence.

1. Different Labels, Different Meanings

Food products often carry several types of date labels, each with a distinct purpose:

• Sell By:
  Primarily for retailers, indicating how long a store should display a product for sale. It’s not a safety date. Most foods are still safe to eat after this date if stored properly.

• Use By:
  The last date recommended for peak quality. After this date, flavor, texture, or freshness may decline. This is especially important for perishable items like dairy, meats, and pre-packaged meals.

• Best By / Best Before:
  Suggests when a product will be at its best quality—not necessarily when it becomes unsafe. Canned goods, dry pasta, or frozen items often last weeks or months beyond these dates.

2. Expiration Dates Aren’t Always About Safety

It’s a common misconception that a food product automatically becomes unsafe once it hits the date on the package. In reality, many items remain safe to consume for days, weeks, or even months beyond their labeled date, depending on storage conditions.

For example:

• Dry goods: Rice, pasta, and cereal often last long past their “best by” dates if kept in a cool, dry pantry.

• Canned foods: Properly stored canned goods can remain safe for years, though flavor and texture may change.

• Frozen items: Freezing extends shelf life far beyond printed dates; always check for freezer burn or odd odors.

3. Trust Your Senses

Even when a food product is technically past its labeled date, your senses can help determine if it’s still safe:

• Smell: Off odors are often the first sign that something has gone bad.

• Appearance: Mold, discoloration, or slime indicate spoilage.

• Texture: Slimy surfaces or sticky films can signal bacteria growth.

• Taste: If it tastes “off,” don’t risk it—spit it out and discard.

4. Proper Storage Is Key

Expiration dates assume proper storage conditions. Keep these tips in mind:

• Refrigerate perishables promptly.

• Store dry goods in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.

• Freeze meat, bread, or prepared meals if you won’t use them by the date on the package.

• Avoid leaving leftovers at room temperature for more than two hours.

5. Reducing Food Waste

Understanding expiration dates can help you reduce unnecessary food waste. According to the USDA, millions of tons of edible food are thrown away each year because of confusion over labels. Knowing which dates are about safety versus quality can help you make smarter decisions, save money, and help the environment.

Bottom Line

Food expiration dates are guidelines, not guarantees. By understanding the meaning behind each label, storing food properly, and using your senses, you can safely enjoy products beyond their printed dates—and reduce waste at the same time.

The next time you see a “best by” date, remember: it’s a helpful suggestion, not a hard deadline. Your nose, eyes, and common sense are just as important in deciding whether that food still belongs on your plate.