Stop Tossing Good Food: The Truth About ‘Best By’ Dates

Most people misunderstand “Best By” and “Best Before” dates. These labels don’t mean the food is unsafe after the date—they simply mark when the product is at its best in flavor and texture. This confusion causes many to throw out food that’s still perfectly fine, fueling a major food waste crisis.

Let’s break it down so you can shop and store smarter.

What ‘Best By’ Really Means

Manufacturers set ‘Best By’ dates to show when food should taste, look, and feel its best. These labels depend on food type, packaging, and storage conditions.

👉 Important: These dates aren’t safety deadlines—except for infant formula. For all other foods, they’re just guidelines.

The Biggest Myth: Expiration ≠ Spoiled

Many people see a date and assume the food is bad. Not true. Most canned and shelf-stable items are safe long after the printed date—if stored properly and showing no signs of damage.

Yes, you might notice a drop in freshness, but the food isn’t automatically spoiled.

‘Best By’ vs. ‘Use By’: Know the Difference

Understanding label terms can help you waste less:

• Best By: Quality-focused. The food is still safe afterward.

• Use By: Safety-focused. Found on perishable items like deli meats or dairy. Follow these dates more closely.

How Long Do Canned Foods Last?

When stored in a cool, dry place, canned goods often last years beyond the ‘Best By’ date. Some examples:

• Canned vegetables: 1–2 years past date

• Canned soups and stews: 2–3 years

• Canned meat or fish: 3–5 years

Use Your Senses: Trust, But Verify

Still unsure? Let your senses guide you:

• Look: Toss cans that bulge, leak, rust, or have deep dents.

• Smell: If it smells sour, metallic, or rotten—don’t eat it.

• Taste: If it looks and smells fine, try a small bite. If the taste is off, spit it out.

Store Smarter: Make Food Last

Storage is key to long-lasting canned goods. Here’s how to keep them safe:

• Keep it cool: Store at 50–70°F.

• Keep it dry: Avoid humid spots like basements.

• Avoid light: Direct sunlight breaks down nutrients.

Proper storage extends the life of your pantry.

Why This Matters: The Cost of Waste

Tossing good food hits hard. It wastes money and strains the planet. In the U.S., over 30% of food ends up in the trash. A big reason? Misreading labels.

That’s a problem we can fix.

Quick Tips to Cut Waste

• Don’t panic over dates. They indicate quality—not safety.

• Use FIFO: First In, First Out—rotate older items to the front.

• Buy less. Only get what you’ll actually use.

• Donate soon. If you won’t eat it, someone else might.

Final Thought: Know What You’re Reading

Once you understand how to read ‘Best By’ and ‘Best Before’ labels, you’ll shop smarter, save money, and help the environment.

Use your senses. Store food right. Know what the dates mean.

And next time, think twice before tossing that can.