When it comes to packaged foods, labels like “Best By” and “Best Before” appear everywhere, but they’re also among the most commonly misinterpreted pieces of information on a product. Many shoppers assume these dates mark the moment food becomes unsafe, when in reality, they simply indicate when the manufacturer believes the product will taste its best. This misunderstanding leads countless people to toss out food that’s still perfectly edible—fueling the growing issue of food waste. Learning how to read these dates correctly, particularly on canned items, can help you save money and reduce unnecessary waste.
What “Best By” Dates Actually Mean
A “Best By” date reflects the period during which a product is expected to maintain optimal flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Manufacturers determine this window based on the type of food, packaging, and typical storage conditions. Aside from infant formula, these dates are not regulated by federal law. They’re meant to serve as quality guidelines—not warnings about safety.
The Biggest Myths About Expiration Dates
One of the most common misconceptions is treating “Best By” labels as strict expiration deadlines. While foods may lose a bit of freshness after that date, most shelf-stable items remain safe if they show no signs of spoilage. This is especially true for canned goods, which are designed to last for years under the right conditions.
“Best By” vs. “Use By”: Know the Difference
- Best By: Indicates when the product is expected to taste and look its best.
- Use By: Found mainly on perishable foods—such as dairy, deli meats, or prepared meals—and refers to the last date the manufacturer recommends consuming the product for safety reasons.
Understanding this distinction helps prevent wasting food while still protecting your health.
How Long Canned Foods Can Last Past Their “Best By” Date
With proper storage—cool temperatures, dry conditions, and undamaged packaging—most canned foods can remain safe long after their labeled date. Many types last several years beyond their “Best By” date, though exact longevity varies by product.
How to Tell If a Canned Food Is Still Safe
Even if a can is past its quality date, you can evaluate safety by using your senses and checking the container:
- Look: Avoid cans with bulging tops, heavy rust, deep dents (especially on seams), or signs of leakage.
- Smell: A sour, metallic, or rotten scent means the product should be discarded immediately.
- Taste: If appearance and smell seem normal, sample a tiny amount. If the flavor seems off, don’t continue eating it.
Storage Tips That Extend Shelf Life
How you store canned goods greatly affects how long they stay safe and palatable:
- Keep them in a cool, dry place (ideally 50–70°F).
- Avoid humid areas, such as damp basements.
- Protect from direct sunlight to preserve flavor and nutrients.
Proper storage can vastly prolong the life of pantry staples.
Why Misreading Labels Contributes to Massive Food Waste
Discarding food prematurely isn’t just wasteful—it’s expensive and environmentally harmful. In the U.S., more than 30% of all food is wasted each year. When food ends up in landfills, it contributes to methane emissions and strains already overfilled waste systems. A significant portion of this waste stems from mistaken assumptions about date labels.
How to Cut Down on Food Waste With Better Label Awareness
- Remember that most dates relate to quality, not safety.
- Practice FIFO—First In, First Out—when organizing your pantry.
- Shop more mindfully, especially with perishables.
- Donate unopened items nearing their “Best By” date if you won’t use them.
Final Thoughts: Read Dates Smartly, Store Smartly, Waste Less
Understanding the true meaning of “Best By” and “Best Before” dates—particularly on canned foods—can help you stretch your budget, make sustainable choices, and reduce food waste. By relying on your senses, following good storage habits, and remembering that these dates reflect quality rather than safety, you can confidently make the most of your pantry staples.
