🔍 Why Expiration Dates Are So Confusing
In the U.S., food manufacturers use a variety of date labels — but none are federally regulated for most foods (except infant formula).
The result? A patchwork of terms that sound serious but aren’t standardized.
Best if Used By
Peak flavor and quality — not a safety warning
Use By
Suggested last date for best quality (often used for perishables)
Sell By
For store inventory — tells retailers when to pull items from shelves
Expires On
Rare; sometimes used on baby formula — indicates when nutrient levels may decline
Bottom line: None of these mean “toss after this date.”
The USDA and FDA agree: These labels are about quality, not safety.
How to Tell If Food Is Still Safe
Instead of relying on dates, trust your senses:
Continued on the next page
ADVERTISEMENT
