Understanding Expiration vs Best Before Dates: Key Differences Explained
Learn the crucial differences between expired labels and best before dates to ensure food safety and quality.
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Expired labels indicate that a product is no longer safe to consume past the given date due to possible degradation or bacteria growth. In contrast, best before dates suggest the period during which the product maintains its optimal quality and flavor but can often be safely consumed shortly after, depending on the item. It's crucial to check physical signs and smell before using a product past its best before date.
FAQs & Answers
- Can I eat food after the best before date? Yes, many products are safe to consume after the best before date, but it's important to inspect them for quality.
- What should I do with expired food? Expired food should be discarded to avoid health risks, as it may contain harmful bacteria or be unsafe to eat.
- How can I tell if food is still good after best before? Check for any off smells, unusual textures, or changes in appearance to determine if the food is still good to consume.
- Are 'sell by' dates the same as best before? No, 'sell by' dates indicate when a store should sell the product, while 'best before' dates indicate optimal quality for the consumer.