Are you confused by the dates that appear on food labels? If so you are not alone! According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service product dating is not required by Federal regulations with the exception of infant formula. Most companies do put a date or a code on the package but unfortunately there is no universally accepted method used so it can get confusing. Here are some terms that will help you in determining if the food item is still safe.
“Sell by” means that store should sell the product by the date printed, but it can still safely be eaten after that date. Eggs cartons have a sell by date.
“Best if used by” means the consumer should use the product by the date listed for best quality and flavor (not for safety reasons). Most canned goods have a best if used by date.
“Use by” or “expires” means the product should be used by or frozen by the date listed. There will likely be a marked deterioration in product quality and safety after this date. Meats are an example of a food with a use by date.
A packing code is required on all cans. This enables the company to track when and where the food was manufactured. Unfortunately these aren’t meant for the consumer to interpret as “use by” dates.
Canned foods are safe indefinitely as long as they are not exposed to extreme temperatures (freezing or temperatures above 90°F). Any cans that are dented, rusted, or swollen should be discarded. You will find that high-acid foods (tomatoes, fruits) will keep their best quality for 12 to 18 months and low-acid canned foods (meats, vegetables) for 2 to 5 years.
Follow these tips for ensure that the food that you purchase will be at top quality:
- Purchase the product before the date expires.
- If perishable, take the food home immediately after the purchase and refrigerate it promptly.
- Once you freeze a perishable item, it doesn’t matter if the date expires because foods kept frozen continuously are safe indefinitely.
- Don’t buy dented cans from the store. The can could be compromised it could be unsafe.
- Follow the recommendations for on the products for safe storage.
