How many times have you checked the date on food packaging and wondered what it really means? Is it safe to eat the food after that date? What happens if the date has already passed? These are common questions when we encounter use-by and best-before dates on food. 

In this post, we unravel the mystery behind these labels and explain the difference between them.

Use-by date: is it safe to eat?

A use-by date is crucial food-safety information. It is the final date on which the manufacturer guarantees that the product will remain in optimal condition and safe to eat. After this date, the food may no longer be safe because it could have lost its freshness, flavour and nutritional value and may potentially cause foodborne illness.

It is important to observe the use-by date and discard food once it has passed. Such food should not be eaten, as it could pose a health risk.

Best-before date: can it still be eaten?

A best-before date, by contrast, indicates quality rather than safety. 

It is the period during which the manufacturer guarantees that the product will retain its optimum flavour, texture and nutritional quality. After this date, the food may still be safe to eat, although its quality may gradually decline.

When a food’s best-before date has passed, this does not necessarily mean it should be thrown away. Before discarding it, assess its condition using your senses: does it look, smell and taste all right? If it still appears to be in good condition and shows no signs of spoilage, it is likely to remain safe to eat, although its quality may have declined.

Conclusion: making informed decisions

Understanding the difference between use-by and best-before dates is essential for making informed decisions about the food we eat. 

While a use-by date concerns food safety and must be observed, a best-before date is more flexible and can provide opportunities to make the most of food even after the date has passed.

Always trust your senses and use common sense when assessing the freshness and safety of food. In doing so, you will not only reduce food waste but can also continue to enjoy tasty, nutritious meals responsibly.