Decoding Food Date Labels: What They Actually Indicate

The printed date on food packages does not necessarily mean the food has expired, as it is often misunderstood by consumers. The date is more of a guideline for when the quality of the food may deteriorate, rather than an indication of safety. The USDA advises that food can still be safe and wholesome after the date has passed if handled properly until spoilage is evident. Proper storage based on manufacturer guidance is crucial to maintain food quality. The USDA and FDA recommend checking for quality and spoilage before discarding food based on the date label, and the USDA offers a FoodKeeper App for storage guidance. Efforts to reduce food waste include removing "best before" labels on some foods, and there have been attempts to clarify date labeling through federal policy.