Food expiration dates: Myths v/s facts
What's the story
Food expiration dates are often misunderstood, leading to confusion about what is safe to eat. Many people throw away food the moment it hits its expiration date, fearing health risks. However, these dates are not always clear indicators of food safety. Understanding the difference between sell-by, best-by, and use-by dates can help reduce food waste and ensure safe consumption. Here are some insights into these dates and how they affect food safety.
Retail guidance
Sell-by dates explained
A sell-by date indicates how long a retailer should display a product for sale. It is not a safety date, but rather a guideline for inventory management. Products can still be consumed after this date, though they may not be at their peak freshness. Dairy products, for example, can often last up to a week beyond the sell-by date if stored properly.
Quality indicator
Best-by dates clarified
The best-by date indicates when a product will be at its best quality in terms of flavor and texture. This is not a safety deadline but rather an indication of when the product may start to lose its optimal taste or texture. Canned goods and dry mixes may still be good to consume well past their best-by dates if there are no signs of spoilage.
Safety guideline
Use-by dates importance
Use-by dates are the final day recommended for the use of the product while at its best quality. This is especially important for perishable items like ready-to-eat meals or pre-packaged salads. Consuming these items after the use-by date may pose health risks as they could spoil or become unsafe to eat.
Freshness marker
Understanding 'pack date'
A pack date indicates when an item was packaged and is often seen on frozen or refrigerated foods like frozen vegetables or bakery items. This date helps consumers know how fresh their purchase is, but doesn't indicate when it should be consumed by. Items can often remain good for weeks after the pack date if stored correctly.
Storage best practices
Tips for extending shelf life
Proper storage techniques can significantly extend the shelf life of many products beyond their printed dates. Keeping items in airtight containers, storing them in cool places away from direct sunlight, and maintaining consistent temperatures are all effective methods to preserve freshness. Regularly checking for signs of spoilage, such as unusual odors or mold growth, is also crucial in determining whether food is still safe to eat, regardless of its expiration label.