Understanding Different Expiration Date Terms
Here’s what those terms mean:
“Best if used by/before”: This is when the product might taste the best, but it’s not about safety.
“Use by”: This is the last date recommended for top quality and might also relate to safety.
“Sell by”: This helps stores manage their stock, but it doesn’t tell you if the product is safe or good to eat.
Knowing When to Get Rid of Food
It’s not just about the date. Other things like how you store the food and signs of spoilage matter too. Canned and dry foods can often last past the expiration date, but things like meat and dairy need more attention. Trust your senses—if something smells off, looks strange, or has mold, it’s time to toss it. Also, keeping things clean in your kitchen and cooking foods properly can reduce the risk of getting sick from expired food.
Cutting Down on Food Waste
Being mindful of expiration dates can help us waste less food, which is a big problem globally. By understanding and paying attention to these dates, we can buy what we need and avoid throwing away perfectly good food. It’s a small step towards more sustainable eating habits.