Deciphering Use-By and Best-Before Dates

[Brandon Crawford]

Navigating the world of food safety is crucial, especially when deciphering “use-by” and “best-before” dates. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand these labels:

Use-By Dates:
- Typically found on perishable items like meat and dairy, use-by dates signify the last day by which the product should be consumed for safety reasons.
- It’s a critical aspect of Level 3 Food Safety Course, emphasizing the importance of preventing foodborne illnesses.

Best-Before Dates:
- Non-perishable items such as canned goods and snacks often sport best-before dates, indicating the period when the product is at its peak quality.
- Though exceeding the best-before date doesn’t necessarily render the food unsafe, its taste and texture may deteriorate.

By grasping the distinction between these labels, consumers can make informed decisions, reduce food waste, and uphold food safety standards advocated in a Level 3 Food Safety Course.