Have you wondered what the 'use by' and 'best before' labels on food products mean?

(Patria) - Food labels help you make safe decisions while reducing food waste. It is crucial to understand the difference between the 'use by' and 'best before' labels.

The Food Safety Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina published data stating that the European Commission estimates that up to 10% of the 88 million tons of food waste generated annually in the EU is related to date labeling on food products.

What does the 'use by' label mean?

The 'use by' label refers primarily to food safety. Food with this label (fresh meat, fish, ready-to-eat salads, and dairy products) must not be consumed after the date indicated by this label, even if it looks or smells fine, as harmful bacteria that you cannot see or smell could harm you.

For safe consumption of food before the 'use by' date, follow storage instructions, such as keeping it at a temperature below 5°C. You can also cook the food before this date, which gives you extra time – you can eat it within 48 hours if stored in the refrigerator, or you can freeze it and consume it later. To avoid confusion, do not forget to indicate the freezing date on frozen products.

What does the 'best before' label mean?

The 'best before' label refers to food quality. After this date, the food is still safe to consume if stored properly, but it may lose some of its taste, texture, or freshness. This label can often be found on foods with a longer shelf life (pasta, rice, canned goods, frozen foods, and snacks).

For such food, you can use your senses – sight, smell, or taste – to check if it is still good to eat. However, this does not apply to food labeled with a 'use by' date, as harmful bacteria may be present even if the food appears suitable for consumption.

'Date labeling on food is based on scientific knowledge. Providing clear and accurate information on packaging, along with a better understanding of date labeling, helps guarantee food safety while reducing food waste across the EU,' explains Michaela Hempen, a microbiologist at EFSA.

Why is it important to understand date labels?

Misunderstanding date labels contributes to food waste. If you know the difference, you can plan meals more effectively, store food properly, and make better decisions about what to keep and what not to.

The Food Safety Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina has developed Food Safety Guidelines regarding expiration dates, intended for all food consumers and anyone wishing to donate food. The aim is to provide information on food safety in relation to expiration dates, highlight key procedures for receiving, storing, and distributing food, and offer practical advice to ensure food safety and reduce food waste.