What the dates on food packaging mean

Take a look at practically any food item in your refrigerator or pantry and you’re likely to see a date on the package. There are a number of dates that are voluntarily placed on packaging. That’s right. The dates are voluntary. The FDA mandates dating only on baby formula and baby foods.

The dates you see mean different things. Some refer to safety and some refer to quality. Here are the dates you’ll see and what they mean.

The expiration date refers to the last date a food should be eaten or used. It’s a safety issue. Don’t consume after the expiration date.

The sell by date tells the store how long they should display the product for sale. Make sure that you purchase prior to the sell by date. This is an issue of quality - freshness, taste, and consistency - rather than whether it will spoil on that date.

The best if used by date refers only to quality, not safety. It is recommended for best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.

The guaranteed fresh date usually refers to bakery items. They will still be edible beyond the date listed on the package, but they will not be at peak freshness.

Any use by date is determined by the manufacturer of the product and is not a safety concern, but the date recommended for use of the product while at peak quality.

For most packaged goods with a long shelf life, manufacturers will print a pack date on the label.

How long are foods OK to eat?

Memorize some ranges to make sure you’re keeping safe when it comes to the food you bring home.

·         Milk – It’s usually fine until a week after the sell by date.

·         Eggs - Assuming you bought them before the sell by date, eggs are usually OK for 3-5 weeks after you bring them home.

·         Poultry - Cook or freeze this within a day or two.

·         Seafood - Cook or freeze this within a day or two.

·         Pork - Cook or freeze within three to five days.

·         Beef - Cook or freeze within three to five days.

·         Canned goods – Foods that are acidic (think tomatoes) can keep 18 months or more. Veggies like green beans are probably good for up to five years.