“Use By”
Unlike the “Best By” date, the “Use By” date tends to be used for perishable foods like dairy, meats, and fresh produce. This date is the last recommended day for optimal freshness and safety. After the “Use By” date, foods may not only lose flavor but could also pose a risk to health due to bacterial growth or spoilage.
“Sell By”
Typically found on fresh products such as milk, meats, and baked goods, the “Sell By” date is primarily for the store’s benefit to help manage inventory. It’s not an indication of when the food will spoil, but rather when the store should sell it by to ensure the product is sold while still fresh. Consumers can often still consume the food safely for a few days after the “Sell By” date, depending on the type of product.
“Expires On”
Foods with this label are typically highly perishable items like vitamins, supplements, or certain health products. After the expiration date, these items may not work as effectively or safely, so it’s best to follow these dates more strictly than others.
Understanding Food Safety
Expiration dates are not just about quality—they’re often tied to food safety as well. The risk of foodborne illness is a real concern when it comes to improperly stored or expired food. However, most foods don’t suddenly spoil on the exact day marked on the label. The safety of food depends on several factors, including the type of food, storage conditions, and whether the packaging was damaged or compromised.
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For instance, while canned goods may last for years beyond their “Best By” dates if stored correctly, perishable items like fresh dairy products or meat can go bad quickly, especially if they’re left out of the fridge for too long.
Shelf Life vs. Expiration Date
The term “shelf life” refers to the length of time a food product can be stored while maintaining its quality. In most cases, manufacturers test and estimate a food’s shelf life before printing an expiration date. But shelf life is different from the expiration date. The expiration date indicates the end of the shelf life, but a product could still be good to consume shortly after this date, depending on the circumstances.
For example, if you have a can of soup that’s a few months past its “Best By” date, it’s likely still safe to eat as long as the can is intact (no rust, bulging, or dents). However, the flavor or texture might not be as good as when it was fresh.
Factors That Affect the Shelf Life of Food
Several factors can influence how long food stays fresh and safe to eat, including:
Storage Conditions
Proper storage is essential for extending the shelf life of food. For example, perishable items like meat and dairy products should always be refrigerated at the proper temperature. Many dry goods, such as grains, pasta, and canned goods, should be stored in a cool, dry place. The longer food is stored improperly—especially at high temperatures—the more likely it is to spoil prematurely.
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