Do you ever find yourself puzzled by the various dates on food packaging? "Best by," "Sell by," "Use by"—what do they all mean? Understanding these labels can help you reduce food waste, save money, and keep your fridge organized.
Here's the TLDR, and if you want more info and some handy links because you just can't believe it's this simple, keep on reading.
Sell by: Ignore it. Not an expiration date.
Best by: Not an expiration date.
Use by: Close to an expiration date.
Freeze by: Not an expiration date.
Expiration Dates Explained
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Sell By: 🛒 This one is not for you. It's what the store uses to help manage their inventory. You can go ahead and ignore it! You can usually consume the food a few days to weeks after this date if stored properly.
Don't believe it? Here's another article from savethefood.com
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Best By: 👍 This date indicates when the product will be at its peak quality and flavor. It’s not an expiration date, but the manufacturer’s estimate of when the food will be at its best. Foods are often still safe to eat after this date, though there might be a slight decline in taste or texture.
Another go-to source for you from the USDA right here
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Use By: 🍽️ This is the last date recommended for the use of the product while at peak quality. For perishable items like dairy and meats, it’s best to consume them by this date to ensure safety and quality.
A more in-depth read found here
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Freeze By: ❄️ This date indicates when a product should be frozen to maintain peak quality. Freezing food can extend its life well beyond this date. You can typically store foods in the freezer for up to a year if stored properly.
More tips for freezing foods here
Tips to Extend Food Freshness: 🥬
- Check your fridge temp: 40 degrees F is recommended
- Keep it organized: Use FIFO (First-in, First-out) by putting new foods at the bag. LightTags are great to help you know at a glance what needs to be eaten.
- Freeze wisely: Freeze items you can’t use in time to extend their shelf life. Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Trust your senses: When in doubt, check the smell, color, and texture of the food. If something seems off, it’s best to toss it.
Why It Matters:
Understanding these dates helps reduce food waste, which is good for the planet and your wallet. Plus, keeping track of what’s in your fridge helps ensure you always have fresh ingredients on hand for your meals.
At Ovie, we’re committed to helping you make the most of your groceries. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to keep your fridge organized and your food fresh!