The ‘use
by’ date on packaged food tell us when it is still safe to eat
the product. The use-by date is usually found on perishable foods such as
chilled meat, dairy, and ready-made meals. To avoid wasting food these should
be purchased when, and in the amount, necessary. It’s best not to stock up.
‘Best
before’ dates are more flexible than use by date. After this
date, foods such as dried beans, lentils, and pasta, can be consumed safely,
although their quality may have decreased (for example, changes in
flavour, colour, texture). Trusting our senses should be sufficient to detect
the quality of foods with these labels.
