Portland, Oregon – Have you ever wondered about the dates printed on your food packages and what they truly mean? It’s a common scenario – you grab a bag of chips, only to notice that the date on the package has passed. But does that mean the food is no longer safe to eat? The answer is more complex than you might think.
The date printed on food packages, whether it’s labeled as “Best If Used By” or “Best By,” doesn’t necessarily indicate that the product has expired. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these dates are more about quality than safety. The FDA requires a “use by” date on infant formula to ensure the nutrient content remains as described on the label.
Consumers often misconstrue these dates as expiration dates, leading to significant food wastage. Food experts like Abby Snyder, an associate professor of food science, emphasize that these dates are guidelines on when to consume the food for optimal quality, rather than a strict deadline for consumption.
Although the quality may deteriorate after the printed date, it doesn’t mean the food is unsafe to eat. Andy Hirneisen, a senior extension educator, notes that the product may experience changes like separation or different taste due to spoilage microbes, but it’s still safe for consumption.
The USDA advises that if a food’s date has passed while in your possession, it should still be safe to eat until signs of spoilage are evident. These signs might include an off-odor, flavor, or texture caused by spoilage bacteria. Proper handling and storage based on manufacturer recommendations can help maintain the food’s safety and quality.
To prevent bacteria growth and ensure food quality, it’s essential to follow storage guidance provided on food labels. The USDA underscores the importance of proper storage to prevent spoilage and maintain quality.
In the U.K., some major chains have removed “best before” labels on certain foods to reduce food waste. Date labels have been in use since the 1970s to address consumer concerns about freshness. The FDA suggested using “best if used by” for freshness and “use by” for perishable goods in 2019, based on consumer understanding of these terms.
Efforts to establish federal policies clarifying the use of dates on food have faced challenges, with a bill introduced in the House last year stalling in a subcommittee. The goal remains to reduce food waste and provide consumers with clear guidance on food safety and quality.
Ultimately, understanding the meaning behind the dates on food packages can help consumers make informed choices and reduce unnecessary food wastage, ensuring both safety and quality in their meals.