Understanding Food Labels: Best Before vs. Expiry Date
I’ve noticed some confusion around the terms "Best Before" and "Expiry Date" on food labels, so I thought I’d break it down to help clarify the difference. Understanding these terms can help reduce food waste and ensure we’re consuming food safely.
Best Before Date
The "Best Before" date is about quality, not safety. It indicates the period during which the food will remain at its best in terms of flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Can you eat it after the date? Yes, in most cases! Foods past their "Best Before" date are often still safe to eat, but they might not taste or perform as well as they would before that date. For example, crackers might go stale, or spices might lose some of their potency.
Examples: Canned goods, dry pasta, cereal, and snacks often have "Best Before" dates.
Expiry Date (or Use By Date)
The "Expiry Date" (sometimes labeled as "Use By") is about safety. It’s the date after which the food may no longer be safe to eat, even if it looks and smells fine. Consuming food past this date could pose a health risk, especially for perishable items.
Can you eat it after the date? No, it’s not recommended. Foods like meat, dairy, and ready-to-eat meals should be consumed by this date to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Examples: Fresh milk, yogurt, and pre-packaged salads often have "Expiry" or "Use By" dates.
POINT TO NOTE
1. Best Before = Quality: It’s fine to eat after the date, but the quality might not be optimal.
2. Expiry Date = Safety: Don’t consume after this date to avoid potential health risks.