Most people get this wrong and toss out the can. The right way to read ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ dates. | April 29, 2025
Annonce:
In the world of packaged foods, “Best By” and “Best Before” dates are ubiquitous, yet often misunderstood. Contrary to popular belief, these dates do not signal when food becomes unsafe to eat, but rather when it is likely to be at its peak flavor and texture. Unfortunately, this confusion leads many people to discard perfectly good food, contributing to the growing problem of food waste. Learning how to properly interpret these labels—especially when it comes to canned goods—can help consumers make smarter, more sustainable choices.
Understanding the Purpose of ‘Best By’ Dates
‘Best By’ dates are set by manufacturers to indicate the period during which the food is expected to maintain its best flavor, color, and nutritional quality. These dates are based on factors like the type of food, packaging materials, and expected storage conditions. In most cases (with the exception of infant formula), these dates are not federally regulated, meaning they serve as guidance—not a safety deadline.
Advertisement
Common Misconceptions About Expiration Dates
One of the most widespread misconceptions is treating ‘Best By’ dates as hard expiration deadlines. While a product may lose some freshness or texture after this date, it’s usually still safe to consume if it shows no signs of spoilage. This is particularly true for shelf-stable items such as canned foods, which can often last years beyond their date when stored correctly.
‘Best By’ vs. ‘Use By’: What’s the Difference?
‘Best By’: Indicates when the product will be at its best quality.
‘Use By’: Often found on perishable items like dairy or deli meats, this date is more safety-oriented. It should be more closely followed, especially for high-risk items.
Understanding the difference helps avoid unnecessary waste while ensuring food safety.
How Long Do Common Canned Foods Last Past the ‘Best By’ Date?
Below is a breakdown of typical shelf lives after the ‘Best By’ date for common canned foods, assuming proper storage (cool, dry location, and intact packaging):
Advertisement:
Using Your Senses: How to Evaluate Food Safety
Even past the ‘Best By’ date, many canned goods remain safe to eat. Use this checklist:
Look: Check for bulging lids, rust, dents (especially on seams), or leakage.
Smell: Any sour, metallic, or rotten odors? Discard it.
Taste: If the can looks and smells fine, taste a small amount. If it tastes off, don’t eat it.
Storage Matters: How to Extend the Life of Your Food
Continued on the next page
Advertisement:
Homemade Cheese
How Make Easy Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese
How To Make Jalapeno Popper Casserole
Discover This Ingenious Strategy to Save Gas at Home that Suppliers Don’t Want You to Know»
“What is this? Found this odd “table” at a friend’s family house. The original owner passed away and never told them the intended use.”
With the warm weather coming, I swear by this tip!
Purslane Is Tastier Than Meat! Neighbors from Turkey Taught Me How to Cook This Wild Weed
Saving the olive trees: the initiative with which you can adopt them
Easily Multiply Your Snake Plants Propagating with Just One Leaf
