When Is Food Unsafe? What Sell By and Best By Labels Mean for You

Food labels can be confusing, with terms like “sell by,” “best by,” and “use by,” among others. There are limited federal requirements that product expiration dates be labeled for safety. Manufacturers choose their own phrases to describe expected product quality rather than safety.

California, with a law that went into effect July 1, is the first in the nation to ban consumer-facing “sell by” dates, which would be replaced with a code for retailers only. Two exceptions are infant formula and eggs — these would continue to have a “sell by” label. Labels will now be restricted to “best if used by” for quality and “use by” for safety, the National Agriculture Law Center explains. The law came about to help reduce food waste.

Sell By

This date guides retailers on how long to display a product. It is most often found on highly perishable items, such as fresh meat and milk. Foods are often still safe to consume after the “sell by” date, and some retailers discount them as the date approaches. Because spoilage may happen more quickly, these products should be used soon after purchase.

Best if Used By / Before

This date indicates when a product will be at its best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date. Food may still be acceptable to eat after this date, though its taste or quality may be diminished.

Use By

Similar to a “best by” date, this recommended date indicates when a product should be consumed for peak quality. The product may still be safe after the date, but it may not taste as fresh.

Freeze By

This date tells consumers when a product should be frozen to maintain peak quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.

How Do You Know When Food Is No Longer Safe?

Because most food product dates relate to quality rather than safety, they are not a reliable standard for when food should be discarded. Signs of spoilage such as unusual odors, textures or mold are a better indicator that food should not be eaten.

In general, most unopened packaged foods are still safe to eat past their recommended dates if they have been stored properly and show no signs of spoilage. However, even canned foods can become unsafe if their containers are dented, swollen or otherwise damaged.

Important Exceptions: Baby Formula and Eggs

There are two notable exceptions to these federal guidelines for food products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires a “use by” date on infant formula to ensure nutritional quality and safety. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture mandates a pack date for poultry products and thermally processed, commercially sterile products to help identify production lots.

Date-labeling requirements for fresh eggs vary by state.

Can Food Be Donated After the Date Passes?

Yes. While the quality of perishable foods may decline after the product date has passed, they can still be wholesome if they show no signs of spoilage. Food banks and consumers should check appearance, smell and texture before distribution or use.

Reporting by Anitra Johnson and Jamesetta Miller Walker, USA TODAY NETWORK / Delaware News Journal via Reuters Connect