What does 'use by' mean on perishable foods?

The term ‘use by’ on perishable foods indicates the date by which the product should be consumed for safety reasons, and it is not a suggestion for quality or freshness. After this date, the food may pose health risks if eaten, and it is generally advised to discard it.

Understanding ‘Use By’ vs. Other Date Labels

Many consumers encounter different date labels on food packaging, which can sometimes be confusing. The main distinctions are:

‘Use by’: This date pertains to safety and indicates the last day the food should be consumed to avoid health risks. It is typically found on highly perishable items such as dairy, meat, or prepared foods.

‘Best before’: Focuses on quality rather than safety. Food may be safe to eat after this date but might not taste or look as good.
‘Sell by’: Aimed at retailers to manage stock; it does not determine safety for consumers.

For example, a carton of fresh milk labeled with a ‘use by’ date of July 10 should be discarded after that date, even if it appears normal, to prevent health issues like food poisoning.

The Science Behind ‘Use By’ Dates

The ‘use by’ date is primarily based on microbiological safety assessments. As perishable foods contain moisture and nutrients that bacteria and other pathogens thrive on, these items can become unsafe over time. Factors influencing the safety include:

Type of food: Raw meats, dairy, and seafood are more prone to bacterial growth than dried or canned foods.
Storage conditions: Proper refrigeration slows bacterial growth, extending safety; improper storage accelerates spoilage.

Packaging: Airtight packaging can prolong freshness and safety, while damaged containers may lead to faster spoilage.

For instance, a package of sliced cooked ham with a ‘use by’ date of July 5 should be consumed before that date to minimize the risk of foodborne illness caused by bacteria such as Salmonella or Listeria.

Common Misconceptions and Practical Advice

Many people mistakenly believe that food past its ‘use by’ date is automatically unsafe, or conversely, that food is safe indefinitely if it looks, smells, or tastes normal. To clarify:

Appearance and smell are not reliable indicators: Some bacteria do not produce noticeable changes, so visual or olfactory cues alone cannot determine safety.
Freezing can extend safety: Freezing perishable foods before the ‘use by’ date can prolong their safe consumption window, but it does not make expired foods safe if the ‘use by’ date has passed.
Follow manufacturer guidelines: Always adhere to the ‘use by’ date and storage instructions on packaging for optimal safety.

For example, eating spoiled chicken after its ‘use by’ date can lead to serious food poisoning, even if it looks and smells fine. Conversely, properly stored and frozen meat can be safe beyond the ‘use by’ date if defrosted and cooked properly.

Handling and Disposal of Perishable Foods

Proper management of perishable foods involves:

Checking the ‘use by’ date upon purchase and before consumption.
Storing foods at recommended temperatures, typically below 4°C (39°F) for refrigeration.

Using foods before the ‘use by’ date to ensure safety.
Disposing of any food past its ‘use by’ date, especially if it shows signs of spoilage or if storage conditions were compromised.

For example, if you find a container of pre-cooked seafood with a ‘use by’ date yesterday, it should be discarded rather than consumed to prevent health risks.

In summary, the ‘use by’ date is an essential safety indicator for perishable foods, guiding consumers on when to consume or discard items to prevent foodborne illnesses. Understanding this label helps ensure safe eating habits and reduces food waste by correctly interpreting expiry information.

What does ‘use by’ mean on perishable foods?