Best before date: Is it still safe to eat?   

Leanne Josephine C. Austria

February 27, 2023

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  Ever wonder if you could still eat foods that are about to expire? We know that it happened to all of us. You’re trying to look for something in the freezer or pantry, and you discovered that your favorite food has been forgotten. Are you still going to eat it? Are you going to throw it away? Is it still good? Well, chances are high!  

  The “best before” date that we see on the packaging gives you ample time to safely eat your food before it expires. Dates refer to quality, not safety, which means milk, eggs and more are generally good to eat after the date on their packaging.  

  On the other hand, the flavor, smell, or texture may be affected. Actually, “Best before” is used on foods with a longer shelf-life, like pasta, canned foods, cereals, tomato sauce, or any foods on the sachet. Bacteria can’t usually grow on these foods, so food poisoning is not a concern.  

  If you spent the past few months stocking up on extra food in your pantry, you are not alone! Who does not want food stocks in their home, right? But as the weeks go by, you may be wondering how to avoid throwing it all away.   

   

  Know the difference between “best before” and “use-by.” 

   

  The most important thing to consider when it comes to food safety is whether a food has a “use-by” or “best-before” date. Remember this. Products that are labeled with “use-by” should not be eaten after that date which will often be found on perishable seafood, meat, chicken, and dairy products. It’s a big NO!  

   

  Unlike products that are labeled with “best before”. It is a little different. It just simply means that food can still retain its quality and be in the condition even before this date. Yes, the quality of the food may change, but it is still safe to eat.  

  Do not throw it out yet!  

  You may feel tempted to throw away if your food passes its expiration date, you might be tempted to throw it away. But, hey! You can still consume it. Many people think that food makes them sick after the expiration date. Foodborne illnesses are not a result of natural decay. Bacteria grow in contaminated food, so make sure you store food properly. 

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  If food sits out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours, throw it away. After preparing a meal, store leftovers quickly to avoid contamination. You can also keep your counters and food prep surfaces clean and free of harmful bacteria.‌ 

  You can still freeze it if you don’t plan to use food right away. Bacteria can’t grow in freezing temperatures, so freezing extends your food’s shelf life.  

   

  Here is the golden rule, Sweeties. Remember that the “use-by” date is a deadline but the “best-before” date is a guideline. Now, go check your fridge, if the food is still A okay! 

   

   

   

    

    

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