Food product dating

Dates printed on food packages can indicate expected quality, stock rotation or a manufacturer’s recommended period of use. The meaning depends on the wording and the product. Most date labels on U.S. foods are not federal food-safety expiration dates.

Storage conditions still matter. Refrigerate perishable foods promptly, follow handling instructions, and do not rely on a date alone to decide whether food has been stored safely. Infant formula is a notable exception: federal rules require a “Use By” date.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

Food Product Dating — USDA FSIS

Explains common date-label phrases and their meanings.

Food Labeling & Nutrition — FDA

General information about labeling requirements.

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