Check dates on food
by News You Can Eat, by Chef Walter
To check the date on food, look for labels like "Best Before" for (peak quality), or Use By" the (safety deadline), or "Sell By" (for stores).
Dates are usually printed in formats like months, days, or years and can be found on the top, bottom, or side of packaging, especially near barcodes on perishables like dairy and meat products.
Check the lid or label of canned or bottled goods, and look for printed dates on the bag or clip of bread or snacks.
Even if a product is past its date, assess its safety by checking for questionable smells, mold, discoloration, or texture changes, which are often found in slimy meat or curdled milk.
Bulging cans or leaking packages are red flags as well.
Proper storage also affects shelf life—refrigerated items spoil faster if not kept cold, while dry goods like rice or pasta last longer when sealed tightly.
When in doubt, trust your senses over the date, as many foods remain safe beyond their labels if stored correctly.
Check the manufacturer’s website for decoding guides for hard-to-read codes, such as lot numbers.
It is imperative to safeguard yourself and your family, contribute to a sustainable philosophy, and save money on unnecessary waste.
I'll check back with you next time for more tips and suggestions on news you can eat.
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