The High Cost of Confusion
In India, a significant portion of food produced is wasted, and confusion over date labels is a major contributor at the household level. Many of us discard perfectly edible food simply because we misinterpret the dates printed on the packaging. This
isn't just a waste of food; it's a waste of the money you spent and the resources used to produce it. The good news is that learning the difference between the key phrases used on labels, as guided by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), can empower you to make better decisions, reduce waste, and improve your food safety habits.
Decoding 'Best Before'
The 'Best Before' date is all about quality, not safety. The FSSAI defines this as the period during which the food will retain its best flavour, texture, and nutritional value. Think of it as the manufacturer's guarantee of peak freshness. Food is generally still safe to consume after this date has passed, though its quality might have diminished slightly. You might notice that biscuits are less crisp or that a spice has lost some of its aroma. This label is common on shelf-stable products like canned goods, dry pasta, and biscuits.
The Crucial 'Use By' or 'Expiry Date'
This is the date to take seriously. The terms 'Use By' and 'Expiry Date' are about safety. According to FSSAI regulations, this date marks the end of the period under which the product is considered safe to eat, even when stored correctly. Consuming food after its 'Use By' or 'Expiry Date' can pose health risks because of potential bacterial growth or spoilage. These labels are typically found on perishable items that can spoil quickly, such as milk, yoghurt, bread, and packaged meats. Unlike 'Best Before', this date is a strict deadline, and food should not be consumed after it has passed.
What About 'Sell By'?
You may occasionally see a 'Sell By' date on products. This date is not for you, the consumer, but for the retailer. It helps the store manage its inventory and tells them how long they should display a product for sale to ensure it has a reasonable shelf life once you take it home. Since it's not a safety date, a product is often still perfectly good for several days after its 'Sell By' date, assuming it's been stored properly.
Trust Your Senses
While date labels are a useful guide, they aren't the only tool at your disposal. For foods past their 'Best Before' date, your senses are your best friend. Before you toss something, inspect it. Does it look right? A change in colour, a slimy texture, or visible mould are clear signs of spoilage. How does it smell? An off or unpleasant odour is a strong indicator that the food has gone bad. If a food looks and smells fine, it is likely safe to eat, especially if it's a non-perishable item. However, when it comes to products past their 'Use By' or 'Expiry Date', it's better to be cautious, as some harmful bacteria don't always produce a noticeable smell or change in appearance. When in doubt, it's always safest to throw it out.
