Experts Clarify Which Food Date Labels to Heed and Ignore
Discover which food date labels are crucial and which can be safely ignored, according to expert guidelines, to reduce food waste and ensure safety.
POLICY WIRE — London, UK — Confusion over food date labels such as “Best By” and “Sell By” leads many consumers to unnecessarily discard edible food, contributing to widespread food waste. Experts have provided clarity on which labels should be strictly adhered to — and which can be disregarded without risk.
The “Use By” date is the most critical label, indicating the last date recommended for the safe consumption of a product. Ignoring this date can pose serious health risks. “The ‘Use By’ date is non-negotiable for safety reasons,” stated Dr. Jane Mitchell, a food safety expert.
In contrast, “Best By” — and “Sell By” dates are more about quality than safety. “These dates are guidelines for optimal quality — and are not safety indicators,” explained Mitchell. “You can often consume products past these dates if they appear and smell fine.”
The “Sell By” date is primarily for store inventory management, advising retailers on how long to display products for optimal freshness. Consumers can still purchase — and consume products after this date without immediate concern.
Understanding these distinctions can help households reduce food waste. According to the Food Standards Agency, UK households discard approximately 4.5 million tonnes of food annually, much of which is still safe to eat. Proper storage — and attention to these dates can mitigate unnecessary disposal.
For perishable items like dairy — and meats, adhering to “Use By” dates is essential. However, pantry staples such as canned goods and dry goods can often last well beyond their “Best By” dates if stored correctly.
Educational campaigns — and clearer labeling practices are being advocated to help consumers make informed decisions. “Better education on date labels can significantly cut down on food waste,” noted environmental activist Emma Roberts.
As awareness grows, some retailers are taking steps to simplify labeling. For instance, certain supermarkets have begun using more straightforward labels like “Best if Used By” to reduce consumer confusion.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
