Understanding Expiry vs. Use-By Dates: Key Differences Explained

Learn the crucial differences between expiry and use-by dates for food safety and product quality.

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An expiry date indicates when a product is no longer safe or effective to use. A use-by date is more specific, showing the last day the product will be at its peak quality. Important: Consuming or using products past their use-by date can pose health risks, whereas products past their expiry date may lose potency or effectiveness.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What happens if I consume food after the use-by date? Consuming food past its use-by date can pose health risks, as it may lead to foodborne illnesses.
  2. Is the expiry date the same as the sell-by date? No, the expiry date indicates when a product is no longer safe, while the sell-by date is guidance for retailers on how long to display a product.
  3. Can I use a product after its expiry date? While some products may be safe to use after the expiry date, their effectiveness can be reduced, so it's essential to check the nature of the product.