These terms are not regulated the same way, and none of them are federally required (except for infant formula). Here’s what they actually mean:
"Best if Used By"
The manufacturer’s suggestion for peak flavor and quality.
✅
Still safe to eat after this date!
"Use By"
The last date recommended for best quality — not safety.
⚠️ Often found on perishables like meat or dairy, but still not a hard stop.
"Sell By"
A guide for stores — tells retailers how long to display the product.
❌ Not for consumers — your food is fine after this date!
📌 Bottom line: These are manufacturer suggestions, not government-mandated safety cutoffs.
🥛 How Long Food Actually Lasts (Past the Date!)
Here’s a quick guide to help you trust your senses — not just the label.
🥚 Eggs
"Sell By" date: Good for 3–5 weeks after purchase.
✅ Test: Place in water — if it sinks, it’s fresh; if it floats, toss it.
🥛 Milk
"Use By" date: Safe 5–7 days after opening, even if past the printed date.
✅ Smell & taste test: Sour = spoiled. Still sweet? You're good.
🧀 Cheese (Hard)
Cheddar, Parmesan, etc.: Can last months in the fridge.
✅ Mold? Cut off 1 inch around it — rest is safe!
Soft cheeses (like Brie): More sensitive — toss if moldy or smells off.
🍗 Meat & Poultry
"Use By" date: Raw meat lasts 1–2 days past date in fridge; freeze for longer storage.
✅ Check: Slimy texture or sour smell = time to toss.
🍘 Yogurt & Sour Cream
Safe 1–2 weeks past "Best if Used By" date.
✅ If no mold and it smells normal — eat it!
🍝 Bread
Stale ≠ spoiled. Dry bread is still safe — toast it!
Moldy? Toss the whole loaf — mold spreads invisibly.
🍱 Canned Goods
Low-acid cans (beans, veggies): Up to 2–5 years
High-acid (tomatoes, fruit): Up to 18 months
✅ Dented or bulging cans? Toss immediately — risk of botulism.
🍪 Pantry Staples (Pasta, Rice, Flour)
Last 1–2 years past printed date if stored properly.
Bugs or rancid smell? Then it’s time to go.
👃 The Best Tool You Have: Your Senses
Forget the date. Ask yourself:
Smell it: Off odor? Toss it.
Look at it: Mold, discoloration, slime?
Taste it (if safe): Sour or bitter? Spit it out.
Your nose and eyes are better food-safety tools than any label.
🛑 Exceptions: When to Take Dates Seriously
While most foods are safe past their date, these few are different:
Infant Formula
Federally regulated — don’t use after "Use By" date
Baby Food
Quality and nutrient levels degrade
Ready-to-Eat Meats (e.g., deli turkey)
Higher risk of listeria — follow "Use By" closely
Perishable Meals (e.g., pre-made salads)
Toss if past date — no second chances
💡 Tips to Reduce Food Waste
✅ Store food properly – Use airtight containers, keep fridge at 40°F or below
✅ Freeze it – Bread, meat, milk, even eggs (beat first!) can be frozen
✅ Label leftovers – Write the date on containers
✅ First In, First Out (FIFO) – Move older items to the front
✅ Compost – Turn scraps into garden gold instead of trash
❤️ Final Thought: Don’t Let a Label Decide What Gets Eaten
Food waste isn’t just about throwing things away.
It’s wasted money.
Wasted resources.
And unnecessary stress.
The next time you’re staring at a “expired” carton of milk or a week-old chicken breast…
Pause.
Check it.
Smell it.
Trust your instincts.
Because real food safety isn’t written in ink —
It’s written in sight, smell, and sense.
So eat with confidence.
Waste less.
And savor every bite. 💛