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### Most People Get This Wrong and Toss Out the Can: The Right Way to Read ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ Dates
We’ve all been there: standing in front of the pantry, staring at a can of beans or soup, wondering if it’s still good to eat. The “Best By” or “Best Before” date printed on the label can be confusing. Is it still safe to eat? Does it mean the food will taste bad after that date? Or should it just be tossed out?
It turns out, most people misunderstand these dates and end up discarding perfectly good food. But with a little knowledge, you can make better decisions about when to use or dispose of food based on its date labels. In this article, we’ll break down the right way to read “Best By” and “Best Before” dates so you can save money, reduce food waste, and ensure you’re eating safely.
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### Understanding ‘Best By’ and ‘Best Before’ Dates
To begin with, it’s important to understand the difference between the terms “Best By” and “Best Before.” These dates are commonly used by manufacturers to indicate when the food is at its peak freshness, flavor, or quality, but they are not safety indicators.
– **Best By**: This date is typically found on products that are expected to retain optimal quality up until that point. It indicates the last date that the manufacturer guarantees the food will be at its best flavor and texture. However, it doesn’t mean the product is unsafe after this date.
– **Best Before**: This term is often used interchangeably with “Best By,” but it typically refers to products that may not stay fresh as long, like perishable items. It suggests that the food might lose some of its flavor or texture after the date, but it isn’t an expiration date.
### What Does It Really Mean?
Both of these dates are about **quality**, not safety. In most cases, food is still good to eat **after** these dates, especially if the product has been stored properly. However, the flavor, texture, or color might not be as ideal as it once was. That said, it’s important to use your own judgment when determining whether or not a product is still good.
Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
– **Canned Goods**: Cans can last much longer than their “Best By” dates, often remaining safe to eat for months or even years after that date. The key is checking for signs of damage like bulging, rust, or leaks. If the can looks damaged, discard it regardless of the date.
– **Dry Goods**: Items like pasta, rice, and cereal often stay safe for a long time after their “Best By” dates. They may lose their texture or flavor, but they’re typically still safe to eat if they’ve been stored properly.
– **Frozen Foods**: Freezing extends the shelf life of many foods far beyond their “Best Before” date. While frozen foods may not taste as fresh over time, they’re still safe to eat well after the date has passed, as long as they’ve been kept frozen.
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