Many misunderstand ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ dates, often leading to unnecessary waste. The key is in interpretation. As food safety expert Sarah Downs highlights, “These dates are about quality, not safety.” They indicate when a product is at its peak freshness, not when it becomes unsafe.
Sarah emphasizes a simple guideline: “If it looks, smells, and tastes okay, it likely is.” Trust your senses before discarding items based on these dates. The USDA echoes this sentiment, noting that “foods are safe to consume past the date if handled properly.”
Moreover, understanding the difference between ‘sell by’ and ‘use by’ can prevent premature disposal. The former guides retailers on stock rotation, while the latter suggests optimal freshness. So, next time you spot that ‘Best By’ date, remember, it’s often about quality, not safety. Trust your instincts and reduce unnecessary food waste.
