Understanding Expiration Dates: Difference Between 'Best Before' and 'Use By'

When shopping for grocery items, there are different labels and dates on the box. These dates are crucial in analysing the safety and quality of the food we eat. The terms 'Best Before' and 'Use By' might be confusing, resulting in excessive food waste or even risk to health if misread or ignored. Understanding the differences between these terms is very important for making correct buying decisions and getting the most out of the food we purchase.

Checking expiration dates is more than just a habit; it’s a practice that can impact your health, finances, and overall eating experience. While it might seem tedious to check every product before placing it in your cart, doing so can prevent illnesses, enhance the quality of your meals, and help manage your grocery budget more effectively. Here is a short description and differentiation between 'Best Before' and 'Use By' dates, their importance, and how they can influence your shopping and consumption habits.

The 'Best Before' date focuses on quality. It indicates how long the product will remain at its peak in terms of taste, texture, and overall quality. Consuming the product beyond this date is not a guarantee that it is harmful, although the quality may not be as good or fresh. For example, if you buy atta (wheat flour), the packet may carry a 'Best Before' date of July 15. Using it after this date may result in less soft and not-so-fresh-tasting chapatis. But they are still safe to eat. You should always pay attention to the "Best Before" dates to guarantee you enjoy them at their best flavour and texture. The nutrient fresh value is intact, and yes, checking dates while buying food ensures less food wastage. Some additional ways you should keep in mind with these best-before products is to always store them properly to maintain their taste and quality. To reduce food wastage and to consume things on time, prioritise using items that are nearing their 'Best Before' date to avoid unnecessary waste.

Also Read- What Happens To The Body After Eating Expired Food? Here’s What Science Says

'Use By' Date

The 'Use By' date, on the other hand, is a safety guideline. This date is the last day the product is considered safe to consume. Eating the product after the 'Use By' date can pose health risks, as the product may have spoiled or become contaminated. For example, if you buy milk, the 'Use By' date is July 10. Drinking it after this date may result in illness caused by food, as milk spoils quickly once past its best-use date. Always check the use buy date as it ensures that the products you consume are within their safe consumption period, which helps prevent illnesses and reduce anxiety and potential risks. Always plan your meals around items that are close to their 'Use By' date to ensure they are consumed in time. Regularly check your fridge and pantry for items nearing their 'Use By' date and use them promptly.

So, keep these points in mind: always check the expiration dates and the terms used in packets to buy smartly and use products efficiently and effectively. This simple habit can enhance your overall eating experience, keep you safe, and save you money in the long run.

Incorporating the practice of checking expiration dates into your shopping routine can lead to significant benefits. From ensuring the safety and quality of your food to reducing waste and saving money, being mindful of these dates is a small effort that will lead to a big change for yourself as well as the environment. Next time you’re at the grocery store, take a moment to check the labels and make choices that will benefit your health, finances, and the environment