Food Expiration Dates: An explanation of their true meaning and advice on when to discard food
Hi everyone! It might be difficult to interpret the expiration dates on food packaging, but it's crucial to know when to discard or retain your supplies. These dates are intended to serve as a reference for food safety and quality, but their erratic use and variety of meanings can result in food waste and possible health hazards. Here's a quick summary to assist you in making wise choices for your kitchen.
Why Dates of Expiration Are Difficult
The many terminologies used and the absence of consistent procedures contribute to the uncertainty around food expiry dates. Labels such as "use by," "sell by," or "best if used by" may be present, but it's not always obvious what they indicate. Furthermore, these dates mostly indicate quality rather than safety, so we're never sure if a food is safe to consume after its expiration date has gone.
The Background of Expiration Dates
Expiration dates were first used in the 20th century to demonstrate a product's quality and freshness. In the US, they increased in popularity in the 1970s in an effort to increase food safety and transparency. However, due to the lack of rigorous regulations, different locations have varied policies, which further confuses customers.
Recognizing Various Terminologies for Expiration Dates
Recognizing Various Terminologies for Expiration Dates
These phrases signify the following:
"Best if used by/before" refers to a time when the food may taste its best, not to safety.
"Use by": This is the deadline that is advised for optimal quality and may also have something do with safety.
"Sell by": This indicates when a product is safe or suitable for consumption, however it just helps retailers manage their inventory.
Knowing When to Give Up Eating
