Many consumers are familiar with the best-before date, but what exactly does it mean? And how does it differ from the use-by date?
What is the best before date?
The best-before date (BBD) can be found on many food packaging. It indicates the date up to which the manufacturer guarantees that the product will retain its specific properties such as taste and texture when stored properly. This means that food is usually still safe to eat after the best-before date has passed, but the taste or quality could change over time.
In contrast to the use-by date, which can be found on perishable foods such as meat and fish and after which the product should no longer be safely consumed, foods can in many cases still be enjoyed without concern after the best-before date has expired.
Foods that are edible after the best-before date has expired:
- Dry foods: Products such as flour, sugar, rice and pasta are often still fine months or years after their best-before date. Just look for signs of moisture or mold.
- Canned goods: Canned goods such as vegetables, beans or soups can often be consumed long after the best-before date as long as the can is intact and shows no signs of rust or damage.
- Dried fruits: Dried fruits such as raisins, apricots or figs are often still edible even after the best-before date has expired, provided they have been stored correctly.
- Dry bread: Packaged bread, especially crispbread or crackers, often stays fresh for a long time if stored in a dry, cool place.
- Long-life dairy products: UHT milk or condensed milk usually have a longer shelf life than stated on the packaging.
- Pasta and rice: Dry pasta and rice can often be used months or years after the best-before date as long as they are protected from moisture.
It is important to note that the quality of these foods may gradually decline after the expiration date. They might lose flavor or texture, but they are usually still safe to eat as long as they do not show signs of spoilage or mold. Therefore, always perform the sensory test when consuming foods that have already passed their expiration date.
Conclusion : The best before date is not an expiration date. It simply indicates until when the manufacturer guarantees that the product will retain its best qualities. Many foods are still edible after the best before date has passed, as long as they are stored correctly and show no signs of spoilage. Trust your senses and common sense to judge the quality and safety of food.