Most pre-packaged foods are required to carry a date mark, but many consumers don't fully understand the difference between the most common labels. This lack of clarity is a leading contributor to preventable food waste and can sometimes lead to unnecessary caution around perfectly edible products. By learning to read these labels correctly, you can save money, reduce waste, and make more informed decisions about your groceries.
The Core Difference: Quality vs. Safety
At its heart, the difference between date labels like "best before" and "use by" comes down to quality versus safety. Ignoring this distinction can lead to throwing away food that is still good to eat or, more dangerously, consuming food that is no longer safe.
What "Best Before" Really Means
A "best before" date, sometimes labeled as BBE (Best Before End), is an indicator of quality, not safety. This date is the manufacturer's best estimate of how long a product will retain its optimal characteristics, such as taste, texture, and freshness. It is important to note that these dates are for unopened products stored according to the packaging instructions. For many non-perishable goods, quality will simply diminish after this date, but the product can often still be consumed safely. For example, biscuits might become a little stale, or spices may lose some potency, but they do not pose a health risk.
"Use By": A Critical Safety Marker
In contrast, the "use by" date is the most critical date to remember, as it relates directly to food safety. This label is found on highly perishable foods, like fresh meat, dairy products, and ready-made salads, which can become unsafe to eat after a certain period, even if they look and smell fine. After the "use by" date, harmful bacteria can grow to levels that cause food poisoning, which is why it is legally prohibited to sell these products once the date has passed. You should never consume, cook, or freeze food past its "use by" date.
Best Before (BBE) vs. Use By: A Comparison
To highlight the crucial differences, here is a breakdown of the two primary date labels:
| Feature | Best Before (BBE) | Use By |
|---|---|---|
| Indicates | Quality (freshness, taste, texture) | Safety (risk of food poisoning) |
| Food Types | Long-lasting foods: frozen goods, dried pasta, cereals, canned foods, biscuits | Highly perishable foods: meat, fish, pre-packed salads, some dairy products |
| Past the Date | Generally safe to eat, though quality may have diminished. Check using your senses. | Not safe to eat. Discard regardless of appearance or smell. |
| Legality of Sale | Legal to sell after this date, provided the food is still fit for consumption. | Illegal to sell after this date. |
| Consumer Action | Use your judgement based on sensory checks (look, smell, taste). | Do not consume. Freeze before the date if appropriate. |
Common Foods with Best Before Dates
Many of the items in your pantry or freezer have a "best before" date, which gives you more flexibility and the opportunity to reduce waste. Common examples include:
- Canned Foods: Tinned tomatoes, beans, and soups.
- Dried Goods: Pasta, rice, lentils, and cereals.
- Frozen Foods: Frozen vegetables, chips, and ice cream.
- Snack Foods: Biscuits, crisps, and granola bars.
- Shelf-Stable Condiments: Ketchup, sauces, and spices.
For these products, if the packaging is undamaged and the storage instructions were followed, they can often be enjoyed well after the printed date. A small loss of flavor or a change in texture is typical, but it does not signal a health hazard.
The Link Between Best Before Dates and Food Waste
Consumer misunderstanding of date labeling is a significant driver of food waste, with millions of tons of perfectly good food being thrown out every year. By distinguishing between "best before" and "use by" dates, consumers can make a substantial impact on reducing this waste. Organizations like Love Food Hate Waste provide resources and tips to help people get the most out of their food. Initiatives to change labeling, such as replacing "use by" with "best before" on some products like certain yogurts, are being explored by supermarkets to further reduce unnecessary disposal. These efforts, combined with individual changes in behavior, can lead to substantial reductions in food waste.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions
In summary, knowing the difference between what is best before food labeling and a "use by" date empowers you to be a more discerning and less wasteful consumer. A "best before" date is a guide for optimal quality, allowing you to use your senses to assess an item's condition. A "use by" date, however, is a non-negotiable deadline for safety. By adhering to this simple rule, you can ensure both your health and a more sustainable approach to food consumption. Educating yourself on proper food storage and trusting your own judgment for long-lasting goods are the best steps toward minimizing waste in your kitchen.
