In today’s economy, every grocery dollar counts. Yet many of us unknowingly throw away perfectly good food because we misunderstand expiration dates. Here’s what savvy shoppers should know:
Food date labels are primarily about quality, not safety. A “best by” date suggests when the product might start losing peak flavor, while “sell by” helps stores rotate stock. Only baby formula has a federally regulated “use by” date for safety reasons.
Milk often stays fresh 5-7 days past its date if kept cold
Canned goods can last years if the cans aren’t dented or rusted
Bread can be frozen before its date to extend freshness for months
Deli meats should be used within 3-5 days of opening, regardless of dates
The bottom line? Trust your eyes and nose more than the package date. By understanding these simple guidelines, you can reduce food waste, save money, and shop smarter in today’s challenging economy.
