‘Best By’ vs. ‘Use By’: What’s the Difference?
-
Best By: Refers to when the food will taste or perform its best.
-
Use By: Usually found on perishable items such as dairy, meat, or prepared foods. This date is more about food safety and should be followed strictly to avoid health risks.
Knowing this difference can help you avoid wasting food while keeping safety a priority.
How Long Do Canned Foods Last Beyond Their ‘Best By’ Dates?
When stored in a cool, dry place with the packaging intact, many canned goods remain safe and tasty long after their ‘Best By’ dates. Here’s a rough guide for common canned foods:
(You could add a table or list here with typical extended shelf lives for items like canned beans, tomatoes, vegetables, and meats.)
How to Tell if Your Canned Food is Still Good
Even past the ‘Best By’ date, use your senses to check for safety:
-
Look: Avoid cans with bulging lids, rust, dents (especially on the seams), or leaks.
-
Smell: If it smells sour, metallic, or off in any way, discard it.
-
Taste: If the can looks and smells fine, try a small amount. If the flavor seems off, don’t eat it.
Storage Tips to Maximize Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to keeping canned goods safe and delicious:
-
Store cans in a cool, dry place away from heat or direct sunlight.
-
Avoid freezing canned foods, as the contents can expand and damage the can.
-
Keep cans off damp floors or areas prone to moisture to prevent rust.