In the world of packaged foods, “Best By” and “Best Before” dates are everywhere—yet often misunderstood. Contrary to popular belief, these dates do not indicate when food becomes unsafe to eat. Instead, they signal when a product is likely to be at its peak flavor and texture. This confusion causes many people to discard perfectly good food, contributing to the growing problem of food waste. Learning how to properly interpret these labels—especially for canned goods—can help consumers make smarter, more sustainable choices.
Understanding the Purpose of “Best By” Dates
“Best By” dates are set by manufacturers to indicate how long a product will maintain its best flavor, color, and nutritional quality. These dates are based on factors such as the type of food, packaging materials, and expected storage conditions. In most cases (with the exception of infant formula), these dates are not federally regulated, meaning they are guidelines—not safety deadlines.
Common Misconceptions About Expiration Dates
One of the most widespread misconceptions is treating “Best By” dates as strict expiration deadlines. While a product may lose some freshness or texture after this date, it is usually still safe to consume if there are no signs of spoilage. This is especially true for shelf-stable items like canned foods, which can often last years beyond their printed date when stored properly.
“Best By” vs. “Use By”: What’s the Difference?
“Best By”: Indicates when the product will be at its best quality.
“Use By”: Often found on perishable items such as dairy or deli meats, this date is more safety-focused and should be followed more closely—especially for high-risk foods.
Understanding this difference helps prevent unnecessary waste while still prioritizing food safety.
How Long Do Common Canned Foods Last Past the “Best By” Date?
Many canned goods remain safe well beyond their printed date if stored in a cool, dry place and the packaging remains intact. While quality may gradually decline, shelf-stable canned foods can often last one to five years—or even longer—past the “Best By” date under proper storage conditions.
Using Your Senses: How to Evaluate Food Safety
Even if a canned product is past its “Best By” date, it may still be safe to eat. Use this checklist:
Look: Check for bulging lids, rust, dents (especially along seams), or leakage.
Smell: If you notice sour, metallic, or rotten odors, discard the item.
Taste: If the can looks and smells normal, taste a small amount. If it tastes off, do not eat it.
Storage Matters: How to Extend the Life of Your Food
Proper storage greatly affects shelf life:
Temperature: Store in a cool (50–70°F), dry place.
Humidity: Keep cans away from damp basements or warm garages.
Light: Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade flavor and nutrients.
With proper storage, many canned foods remain safe and usable long after their suggested dates.
The Environmental and Economic Cost of Food Waste
Discarding food that is still safe to eat affects both your wallet and the environment. In the United States, more than 30% of all food is wasted annually, contributing to landfill overflow and greenhouse gas emissions. Misunderstanding date labels is a significant factor in this problem.
Tips to Reduce Food Waste Through Better Label Awareness
Do not panic over dates—they generally indicate quality, not safety.
Rotate pantry items using FIFO (First In, First Out).
Buy only what you need, especially perishable items.
Donate non-perishable foods nearing their “Best By” date to local food banks if you will not use them.
Conclusion: Be Smart About Shelf Life