Understanding Food Expiration Dates: Focusing on Quality Rather Than Safety Curious about the dates on your food packaging? Surprisingly, their strictness is not as apparent as it may seem. The USDA highlights that these dates primarily focus on the quality of the product, rather than its safety. “Before discarding that yogurt, it’s worth considering the broader perspective,” they suggest.
Decoding Expiration Labels: The presence of labels such as “Best if Used By,” “Use By,” and “Sell By” can often lead to confusion. However, the deadlines in place are not rigid; instead, they serve as indicators of the highest level of quality. When it comes to determining the freshness of a product, there are a few key phrases to keep in mind. The phrase “Best if Used By” is used to indicate the peak flavor of the item, while “Use By” suggests that the product will be at its optimal quality until that date. Guides on expiration dates primarily benefit retailers, not consumers.
Addressing Food Waste: Approximately 30% of food in the United States is discarded annually, in part because of the dependence on expiration dates. However, numerous food items remain safe beyond their indicated expiration dates. Did you know that eggs typically stay fresh for about 3-5 weeks after you buy them? As for fresh chicken and meat, they usually remain good for a day or two after the “Sell By” date. Milk can be consumed for approximately one week after the “Best if Used By” date.
Identifying Signs of Spoilage and Minimizing Waste: Indications such as mold, unpleasant smells, or unusual textures are clear signals that it’s time to discard. Ensuring freshness is all about storing your items correctly. Keep your fridge at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) and your freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Through a deep understanding of labels and harnessing the power of our senses, we have the ability to significantly reduce waste. Remember, the next time you come across a condiment jar that has passed its “Use By” date, it may still be perfectly fine to use and also environmentally friendly.
