How to Read Different Food Expiration Date Terms in Louisiana

You know how it goes: you got a good deal at Costco and bought a big pack of eggs. But as the date on the carton gets closer, you realize you have too many eggs left. Now, you're wondering if it's okay to eat them or if they're not good anymore. This might make you think twice about buying in big quantities to save money.

Get our free mobile app

All those different dates on food can be a bit tricky to understand. You see "best-by," "sell-by," and "use-by" dates, and it's not always clear when your food is no longer good to eat. These dates are more about how the food tastes and looks, not whether it's safe to eat. So, it can be confusing to know when to trust your food and when it's time to get rid of it.

Here is what you need to know before tossing out those eggs.

Three Types of Date Terms:

1. Expiration Dates: The dates you see on food packages are often about the food's quality and freshness rather than safety. Infant formula is the only exception; it's not safe to use after its expiration date.

2. "Best-by" Dates: The "best-by" date tells you when a food product will taste and look its best. It's all about the flavor and quality, and it's still safe to eat after this date.

3. "Sell-by" Dates: The "sell-by" date is more for the grocery store to know how long they can keep items on the shelves. Foods with "sell-by" dates should be refrigerated or frozen once you have them at home. They're still safe and good quality for a while after the sell-by date.

Understanding "Use-by" Dates: The "use-by" date is the last day recommended by the manufacturer to enjoy the food for its best quality. Like the "best-by" date, it's about taste, texture, and how the food looks. You can still eat these foods safely after this date, but they might not taste as good.

Deciding Whether to Eat or Toss a Food:

• Food in the fridge is good for a few days, but not more than a week.
• Uncooked grains like pasta and rice are safe and tasty for up to two years.
• Unopened canned goods can last two to five years.
• Always check for damage or if the food looks or smells bad before eating.

Extending the Shelf Life of Foods:

• Store dairy and eggs properly in the fridge. Milk is good for a week after opening, and eggs are fine for three to five weeks after the sell-by date.
• Freeze poultry if you won't eat it right away. It can stay in the freezer for a year, and cooked poultry will last for four months.
• To keep fresh produce, like leafy greens, in good shape, put a paper towel in the bag to absorb moisture.
• If you have leftover produce, store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. For avocados, keep the pit in the half you're saving to make it last longer, and wrap it with plastic. Cut avocados are good for one to two days.

Understanding these date terms and tips for keeping food fresh can help you make better choices, reduce food waste, and save money.