Holdbarhedsdato

Holdbarhedsdato, often seen as "bedst før" or "sidste anvendelsesdato" on food products, refers to a date indicated by the manufacturer up to which a food product is expected to retain its specific qualities, such as taste, texture, and nutritional value, when stored properly. It is important to distinguish between these two types of dates. "Bedst før" (best before) indicates a quality guarantee; the food may still be safe to eat after this date, but its quality might have deteriorated. "Sidste anvendelsesdato" (use by) is used for highly perishable foods, such as fresh meat or fish, and indicates a safety deadline. Consuming these foods after this date can pose a health risk.

The purpose of holdbarhedsdato is to inform consumers about the expected shelf life of a product and to ensure food safety. It helps to reduce food waste by providing guidance on when a product is likely to be at its best and when it should ideally be consumed. Consumers should always follow the storage instructions on the packaging to ensure the product remains safe and of good quality until the indicated date. If a product shows signs of spoilage, such as mold, an off smell, or changes in texture, it should not be consumed regardless of the date. The responsibility for setting and adhering to these dates lies with the food producers, who must ensure their products meet safety and quality standards.