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Food labels like ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ are often misunderstood, leading to unnecessary food waste. Many people assume these dates indicate when a product becomes unsafe to eat, but that’s not always true. Learning to correctly interpret these dates can save you money and reduce waste, while ensuring food safety for your family.
What Do ‘Best By’ and ‘Best Before’ Dates Actually Mean?
Contrary to popular belief, ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ dates are not expiration dates. These terms are indicators of quality, not safety. They reflect the manufacturer’s estimate of how long the product will retain its peak flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Key Points About These Labels
- ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’: The product is at its best quality until this date but can often be consumed afterward without issues.
- ‘Use By’: Found on perishable items like dairy and meat, this is closer to a safety guideline and should be taken seriously.
- No Label? Some products, like salt or sugar, don’t require these dates because they have an indefinite shelf life.
How to Properly Interpret ‘Best By’ Dates on Cans
Canned goods, in particular, have an exceptionally long shelf life. Here’s how to decide if they’re still good:
1. Trust Your Senses, Not Just the Date
- Appearance: Check for dents, rust, or swelling on the can. A damaged can may indicate compromised safety.
- Smell: When you open the can, sniff for any sour, metallic, or off-putting odors.
- Taste: If it looks and smells fine, it’s likely safe to taste.
2. Understand Longevity of Canned Foods
Canned foods often remain safe to eat long after the ‘Best By’ date if stored properly:
- High-acid foods (like tomatoes): 12-18 months past the date
- Low-acid foods (like beans or meat): 2-5 years past the date
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