Understanding Food Expiration Dates
Ever wondered if milk or chicken is still safe to eat after the date on the package has passed? You’re not alone. Many people mistakenly toss out good food due to confusion about these dates, leading to unnecessary waste.
Food packaging often includes terms like “Best if Used By,” “Use By,” and “Sell By,” which can be misleading. These dates aren’t always about safety—they often refer to quality. For instance:
- Best if Used By: Indicates peak quality and taste but doesn’t mean the food is unsafe after this date.
- Use By: The manufacturer’s recommendation for optimal quality, particularly for perishable items like meat and dairy. Proper storage often ensures safety even past this date.
A personal experience with expired milk sparked my late-night research on food labels, teaching me how to minimize waste, save money, and make smarter choices for the environment.
