bestby

Best-by is a date label used on many packaged foods to indicate the period during which the product is expected to retain its best quality, including flavor and texture. It is not a safety expiration date, and food can sometimes remain safe to eat after the date if it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage.

The meaning of a best-by label varies by country and by manufacturer. In many markets it is voluntary and refers to quality rather than safety. The date is typically determined by stability testing and packaging considerations rather than strict regulatory standards. Some products use other labels such as use-by or best-before, with use-by prioritizing safety and best-before focusing on quality.

Regulatory contexts differ, and date labeling is not uniform worldwide. Some regions distinguish between best-before (quality) and use-by or sell-by dates (safety or inventory management). Regardless of the label, storage conditions strongly affect quality; refrigeration, moisture control, and protection from light can extend how long a product remains near peak quality.

For consumers, the best-by date should guide quality expectations rather than safety alone. Always use sensory checks—appearance, odor, and texture—and follow storage guidelines. If a product shows signs of spoilage, or if safety concerns arise, discard it. To reduce waste, practice proper inventory and rotation, and note that many items can be eaten after the best-by date if they have been kept properly and are free of spoilage.