Milk cartons and food packets often come with a “best before” date written on them. Many people often toss out products that have passed this date without thinking about what it really means. Some people think it means that the items are safe to eat only before the mentioned date, but no, it has a different meaning.
How Is Best Before Date Different From Expiry Date On Food Packets?
You are not the only one if you have thrown away a yoghurt container, a biscuit packet or any other food item because the “best before” date has passed. Millions of people do this, thinking that the product is considered not edible once that date passes. But before throwing another food item away and wasting it, let us make something clear. A “best before” date indicates food quality, optimal taste and freshness. It does not mean safety.
After this date, food items are usually safe to eat, but they may lose their flavour, texture or freshness. And yes, they may not taste as fresh as before. According to India Today, “best before” is different from an expiry or use-by date.
An expiry or use-by date is related to food safety, and consumers should not eat the product after that date has passed. An expiry date is actually the last date until which the manufacturer guarantees the product’s safety and quality. After this date, harmful bacteria may grow and make the food unsafe to eat.
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What People Should Keep In Mind
But there is something else you need to keep in mind. Even if the best before date passes, it does not automatically mean that the item is safe to eat. How you stored that product, the packaging and whether it has been opened matter a lot too. According to India Today, foods that are stored properly, remain unopened and show no signs of spoilage can still be eaten without worries.
But yes, people should not consider the date as the only deciding factor. Extra caution is needed with foods like milk, curd and other highly perishable items. These items can get spoilt quickly if not kept at the correct temperature. Food packets that are leaking, damaged or have an unusual smell should not be consumed either.
If the best before date has passed and you are thinking of consuming the food, make sure you check its texture, smell and how it looks before deciding. When in doubt, it is better to discard it rather than consume it. But if it looks okay, then don’t waste it.
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Were you aware of what this label means?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Romaset and Madalina Todica’s Images
FAQs
What is the best before date on food items?
Best before date indicates the period when the food is expected to have its best quality, taste and freshness. After that, it may lose its flavour, aroma and nutrients.
Is the best before date different from the expiry date?
Yes, a best before date indicates quality, while an expiry or use-by date relates to safety.
What are perishable food items?
Perishable foods are items like milk, curd, meat and other foods that can spoil quickly if not stored properly.
