Food Expiration Dates: What Those Labels Actually Mean for Safety

Introduction

Approximately 40% of the U.S. food supply goes uneaten each year, partly due to confusion around expiration labels. While these dates appear authoritative, most consumers misunderstand their purpose. This article unpacks the science and regulations behind food dating to help you minimize risks—and waste.

The Language of Food Dates

1. 'Best By' vs. 'Use By' vs. 'Sell By'
- Sell By: A retailer stocking guide (e.g., "Sell by May 1") indicating peak freshness for display. Products remain safe for weeks afterward when stored properly.
- Best By: The manufacturer’s estimate of when flavor/texture decline begins (common for snacks, canned goods). Not a safety marker.
- Use By: The closest to an expiration date, suggesting when quality might diminish for perishables like dairy. Still not federally regulated except for infant formula.

2. The Safety-Quality Distinction
Spoilage organisms (which cause off smells/textures) ≠ pathogenic bacteria (which cause illness). Many foods become unappetizing long before becoming hazardous. Exceptions include deli meats, soft cheeses, and prepared salads, where listeria risks increase post-date.

When to Trust Your Senses

Visual & Olfactory Checks
- Mold: Discard porous foods like bread immediately; hard cheeses can be salvaged by cutting 1+ inch around mold.
- Dairy: Sour smell or curdled texture signals spoilage. Unopened milk often lasts 5–7 days past its date.
- Eggs: Submerge in water—fresh eggs sink, expired ones float due to air pockets.

High-Risk Exceptions
Never taste-test: - Raw sprouts - Deli meats left unrefrigerated >2 hours - Leftovers older than 4 days

Storage Science: Extending Shelf Life

Temperature Zones
- Refrigerator: Keep at 40°F (4°C) or below. Store meats on lower shelves to prevent cross-contamination.
- Freezer: Most foods last indefinitely safety-wise, though quality degrades after 3–12 months.
- Pantry: Store grains in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers to deter pantry moths.

Preservation Hacks
- Freeze herbs in olive oil cubes
- Vacuum-seal coffee beans
- Line berry containers with paper towels to absorb moisture

Regulatory Realities

Only infant formula requires federally mandated expiration dates under the 1980 Infant Formula Act. Other dating practices follow inconsistent state laws: - 20 States: No dating requirements
- California: Requires dates on shellfish, pre-packaged meals
- Michigan: Mandates dates on all perishables

The Food Date Labeling Act of 2023 proposes nationwide standardization into "Best If Used By" (quality) and "Use By" (safety) labels.

Reducing Waste Without Risk

1. Repurposing 'Expired' Foods
- Stale bread → croutons/breadcrumbs
- Overripe fruit → smoothies or compote
- Wilting veggies → soup stock

2. Donation Guidelines
Non-perishables past their "Best By" dates are legally protected for donation under the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Act. Many food banks accept: - Canned goods (2+ years past date)
- Dry pasta/rice (indefinite if sealed)
- Commercially packaged snacks

Key Takeaways

1. Most dates indicate quality, not safety
2. Proper storage often triples shelf life
3. When in doubt, use sight/smell/texture tests
4. Support standardized labeling legislation

By demystifying date labels, consumers can prevent billions in annual waste while maintaining food safety. Always prioritize handling practices (like avoiding the 'temperature danger zone') over printed dates.