Have you ever eyed the date on your milk carton and debated whether to toss it? You’re not alone. But here’s the truth: those “expiration” dates might not mean what you think.
What Expiration Labels Really Mean
The USDA clarifies that most food expiration dates don’t indicate safety. Instead, they reflect peak quality. So, before throwing out that yogurt just one day past its date, pause.
The Big Three Labels:
- Best if Used By: Suggests the date of peak flavor and quality.
- Use By: Indicates the last day for optimal quality—not safety.
- Sell By: Tells stores how long to display the product.
These terms often confuse shoppers and cause premature waste.
