Stop Tossing Good Food: What ‘Best By’ Dates Really Mean (and Why Most People Get It Wrong)

It’s a common mistake: you check the label on a can of soup or a box of crackers, see a “Best By” date that’s passed, and throw it out. But here’s the truth—that food might still be perfectly fine to eat.

In a world where “Best By,” “Use By,” and “Sell By” labels appear on almost everything, it’s no surprise that confusion reigns. The result? Millions of people discard food that’s still safe, adding to a global food waste crisis.

Let’s set the record straight and learn how to read these dates the right way—especially when it comes to canned goods that could outlast the date on the label by years.

What Does “Best By” Actually Mean?

The “Best By” or “Best Before” date is not an expiration date. It’s the manufacturer’s estimate of when the food will be at peak quality—in terms of taste, texture, and appearance.

Unless we’re talking about infant formula, these dates aren’t federally regulated in the U.S., meaning they’re suggestions, not safety warnings.

The Truth Behind Common Food Date Labels

Here’s how to decode the most common phrases:

Best By / Best Before – Suggests optimal freshness and flavor, not food safety.
Use By – Often found on perishables like meat or dairy, and more closely tied to safety concerns.
Sell By – A tool for retailers, not consumers.

Most canned and shelf-stable foods can last well beyond these dates—sometimes by years—if stored correctly.

How to Tell if Canned Food Is Still Safe

Instead of relying solely on a date, trust your senses and inspect the can:

✅ Look – No bulging lids, rust, deep dents (especially near the seams), or leakage? That’s a good sign.
✅ Smell – A foul, sour, or metallic smell? Throw it out.
✅ Taste – If it looks and smells fine, taste a small amount. If it tastes “off,” don’t eat it.

How Long Do Canned Goods Last After the ‘Best By’ Date?

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