“This change is already being adopted by many food producers.” “We expect that over time, the number of various date labels will be reduced as industry aligns on this ‘Best if Used By’ terminology,” says Yiannas. ![]() Studies have shown that this best conveys to consumers that these products do not have to be discarded after the date if they are stored properly. To help dispel this confusion, the FDA is supporting the food industry’s efforts to standardize the use of the term “Best if Used By” on its packaged-food labeling if the date is simply related to optimal quality - not safety. That’s not surprising when you consider the variety of terms used with date labels, such as “use before,” “sell by,” “expires on,” and many more. Sound ridiculous? Of course it does, but that’s in essence what food waste looks like every day across our country,” says Frank Yiannas, the FDA’s Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy and Response.Ĭonsumer uncertainty about the meaning of the dates that appear on the labels of packaged foods is believed to contribute to about 20 percent of food waste in the home. Before you get in your car, you toss one of those bags in the garbage. “Imagine this: You go to your favorite supermarket and come out with three bags full of groceries. ![]() ![]() Caption The phrase "Best if Used By" helps clarify that the date label is about quality, not safety, and that if stored properly, products do not necessarily have to be discarded after the date.īetween the food industry and consumers, Americans are throwing out about a third of our food - about $161 billion worth each year.
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