Table of contents:
- 1. Some terms for the expiration date
- 2. The “best before” date for unopened products
- 3. Food that has passed its “best before” date can still be consumed
- 4. However, there are several characteristics to watch out for
Every packaged food product must include an expiration date. The expiration date is the safe limit for the food to be consumed. If it passes from this date, the food will become unfit for consumption. But, do you really understand what is meant by the expiration date? It could be that your assumption is wrong so far, so find out more about expiration here.
1. Some terms for the expiration date
There are several terms that indicate the expiration date of each food product. What you need to know is that the meaning of each of these terms can be different. Such as the following:
- "Sell by" date, the meaning is how long this product can be displayed in the store. So, you as a consumer should buy these products before the due date. However, these food products are still safe to eat a few days after this date as long as they are properly stored and in good condition (including freshness, taste, and consistency). "Sell by" is the last date a product was at its highest quality level.
- Date "best if used by" or "best before"This means that food products are good for consumption before that date because their quality (regarding freshness, taste, and texture) is very good before that date. For example, bread has passed that date but the quality is still good (not moldy), so the bread can still be consumed.
- Use by date, meaning this is the last date the product should be used. After this date, the quality of the product (including taste and texture) will deteriorate.
- Expiration date or "expiration", often abbreviated as "exp" means that the product will no longer be fit for consumption after this date, the food should be discarded immediately. This is a date related to food safety. Usually listed in canned or packaged food.
2. The “best before” date for unopened products
Often times you see food products with a "best before" or "good before use" date, this date only applies to products that have not been opened. If the product has been opened and then you save it, it is not recommended that you refer to this date.
Food that has been opened will be more likely to be contaminated (for example from air). Thus, the quality of these foods may decline before the “best before” date, especially if the food is not stored properly. The texture, taste, freshness, aroma, and nutritional content of food may change after prolonged exposure to air.
To prevent decreased food quality or moldy food, you should immediately use food products that you have opened. Or, if not, you should store these food products properly according to the instructions listed on the packaging.
3. Food that has passed its “best before” date can still be consumed
The “best before” or “good before” date refers more to food quality than food safety. So, if the date has passed but the quality of the food is still good, then you can still consume the food. This is different from the "expiration date" which refers more to food safety.
For example, you can safely consume milk and yogurt for up to 2-3 days after the "good before" date. But, provided the product packaging has not been opened and you can still accept the quality of the milk. If you have any doubts about the food, it's best to just throw it away.
4. However, there are several characteristics to watch out for
Foods that are prone to contamination should not be used after their “good before” or “best before” date. Some of these foods are fresh fish, shellfish and meat.
The most important thing is to pay attention to your food before use, especially if the food has passed its "best before" date. In general, if food has changed color, texture, taste, or smell, it means the food is not safe to eat. Damaged food packaging (especially canned packaging) can also indicate that food is not safe for consumption.
