How many times have you tossed food simply because the date on the package looked close, only to later realize it was still perfectly fine? Confusion around expiry labels is one of the biggest causes of household food waste, and understanding the different terms helps you make smarter, safer decisions.
The difference between common terms
- “Best before”: about quality, not safety. Food is often still safe after this date, though flavor or texture may decline slightly.
- “Use by” or expiry date: about actual safety, especially for perishable foods like meat and dairy, and should be followed closely.
- “Sell by”: meant for stores to manage inventory, not a direct signal for when you need to discard the product at home.
How to judge better
Trust your senses too: smell, color, and texture. A clear change in any of these can be a stronger signal than the printed date, especially for canned and dry goods that stay safe for a long time when stored properly.
Simple habits that cut waste
Arrange your fridge so items closest to their date are in front, and write the purchase date on foods that do not carry a clear label, like home-cooked or frozen meals.
