best by

The can of chickpeas in the pantry has a "best by" date that passed two weeks ago. The loaf of bread on the countertop boasts a "sell by" date of today. And then there's the Manchego cheese in the deli drawer, which comes stamped with an "enjoy by" date that's just around the corner. So is it time to toss these groceries?

Confused by 'best by' or 'use by' labels? The FDA wants your input to reduce food waste Maria Godoy 2024

According to the FDA, Americans waste around 133 billion pounds of food every year — roughly 30-40% of the country’s entire food supply. A significant factor in that food waste is consumers throwing out wholesome food due to confusion stemming from date labels like “use by,” “sell by,” and “best by.”

Is It Okay to Eat Expired Canned Food? | Food Bank of the Rockies Food Bank of the Rockies 2023

Fun fact: "best by" dates are a marketing tool, not a health safety indicator. Most foods marked with a "best if used by" date are perfectly fine for weeks, months, or even years after the date has expired. The food companies just want you to consume it within the period it is likely to be at peak quality.

LPT: always try to check the expiration date on food you’re about to buy blueberrybird24 2025