datummarkering

Datummarkering is the practice of placing date-related information on food packaging to communicate when a product should be consumed for safety or quality. The two most common marks are use-by dates and best-before dates. A use-by date indicates the product should not be consumed after that date for safety reasons. A best-before date signals the period during which the product is expected to retain its best quality; it does not necessarily mean the item is unsafe after that date. Some products also display a packed-on or manufacture date for production tracking, along with batch or lot codes for traceability. In some markets, sell-by dates are used for retailer inventory control, but they do not determine consumer safety.

Regulatory landscape varies by country. In the European Union, date labels are widely used and must be clearly legible on many foods, with the choice of mark guided by safety and quality considerations. In the United States, date labeling is largely voluntary and typically indicates quality rather than safety, though some products carry federally required dates for specific reasons.

Interpretation and use: Consumers should follow use-by dates for highly perishable items and avoid consumption after that date. Best-before dates indicate peak quality; food may still be safe after that date if stored properly and inspected for signs of spoilage. Storage instructions (such as refrigeration or freezing) play a crucial role in extending shelf life. When in doubt about safety, it is prudent to discard the product. Clear and consistent datummarkering helps reduce waste and supports traceability.