Reading food labels empowers you to make informed decisions about the food you consume. One of the most common we’d usually find is the “best before date”. It is usually printed or stamped on the label, box, or container of the product. The specific location of the ‘best before’ date may vary depending on the product and its packaging. It is commonly placed in a visible area, such as the front or back of the packaging, to make it easily noticeable to consumers. But what’s the meaning of “best before date”, really?
THE REAL MEANING OF ‘THE BEST BEFORE DATE’ LABEL
The ‘best before date’ label is a date that indicates the period during which a food product is at its best quality in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional value. In Canada, the term is also called the ‘durable life date‘.
The ‘best before date’ is not a safety date, but rather a guideline for consumers to ensure they are consuming the product at its peak quality. After the ‘best before date’ has passed, the product may still be safe to consume, but its quality may have deteriorated. This date applies to unopened products. And once a product is opened, its shelf life may be shorter.
When it comes to interpreting and using ‘best before dates’, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, it’s important to understand that the ‘best before date’ is not an expiration date. It simply indicates the date up to which the food product is at its best quality. After this date, the product may start to lose its freshness or taste, but it is still safe to consume in most cases.
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Another similar term usually seen on food labels is the ‘sell-by date’.
The sell-by date pertains to both packaged and fresh foods that are typically consumed within a few days of purchase. It represents the suggested final day for displaying the product for sale. Likewise, products that have exceeded their sell-by date may begin to experience a decline in quality. However, it is not legally mandated to remove these items from sale once the sell-by date has passed. Consequently, it is not against the law to sell products that have surpassed their ‘best before date’.
MAKING SURE IT IS REALLY SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION
The ‘best before date’ plays a significant role in determining the quality of food products. It serves as a guide for consumers to ensure they are consuming the product at its peak freshness and taste. After the ‘best before date’, the quality of the food may start to deteriorate. This can result in changes in texture, flavor, and nutritional value. For example, a product may become stale, lose its crispness, or develop an off taste. Luckily, these undesirable changes do not happen right after the best before date has passed.
Food manufacturers typically select a ‘best before date’ that precedes the anticipated spoilage of the product. In essence, food items with a shelf life exceeding 90 days are not mandated to display a “best before date” on the label. Consequently, it is at the discretion of the manufacturer whether or not they choose to include one.
While consuming food past its ‘best before date’ may not necessarily make you sick, it is important to note that the quality may not be up to par. Therefore, it is advisable to check the ‘best before date’ and prioritize consuming products within that timeframe to enjoy the best quality and taste.
Use your senses to determine if a food product is still good to eat. Look for any signs of spoilage, such as mold, unusual odors, or changes in texture. If the food looks or smells off, it is best to discard it. Use your judgment and common sense when deciding whether to consume a food product past its ‘best before date’. If the product has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage, it is likely still safe to eat. However, if you have any doubts or concerns, it’s always best to discard the product to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
FOOD PRODUCTS THAT ARE TYPICALLY SAFE TO CONSUME PAST THEIR “BEST BEFORE DATES“
While it is generally recommended to consume food products before their best before date for optimal quality, there are certain food items that can still be safe to consume after this date. It is important to note that individual judgment and careful inspection are crucial in determining the safety of these products. Here are some food products that are generally still safe to consume after the best before date has passed:
Dry Goods
Packaged dry foods, such as pasta, rice, and cereal, can have an extended shelf life and can still be consumed beyond their best before date if stored properly. In fact, due to the long shelf life of these items, some European countries have even recommended removing the best before label for such products. Dry goods contain less moisture, which inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microbes. Since moisture plays a significant role in deterioration, the low moisture content in these products contributes to their improved shelf life. However, it is important to inspect them for signs of spoilage, such as pest infestation or unusual odors, before consuming.
Canned Foods
Canned foods, including vegetables, beans, and soups, can be safe to consume past their best before date, as long as the cans are intact and not damaged. Examine the can for any signs of bulging, rusting, or leaks, as these can indicate bacterial contamination. If the can appears normal and there are no unusual smells or tastes, the product is likely safe to eat.
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Condiments and Sauces
Many condiments and sauces, such as mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup have significant levels of acidity or preservatives, which can help them last longer. These products are usually okay for consumption, even after the best before date has passed. Just ensure that have been properly stored and show no signs of spoilage, such as mold development or ingredient separation.
Shelf-Stable Snacks
Certain shelf-stable snacks, like cookies, chips, and crackers can remain edible beyond their ‘best before date’ if stored in airtight containers to maintain their crispness. However, it is essential to inspect these products for any rancid smells, off-flavors, or texture changes before consuming them.
