Understanding Date Codes on Food Packages: What “Best By,” “Use By,” and “Sell By” Really Mean

Why Date Codes Matter

Food packages use several different date codes, and most people assume they all mean the same thing. In reality, these dates serve different purposes — some relate to quality, some to freshness, and only a few relate to safety. Misunderstanding them can lead to throwing away perfectly good food or keeping items longer than intended.

This guide breaks down the most common date codes so you can make safer, clearer decisions.

“Best By” — Quality, Not Safety

A Best By date tells you when the product is at its peak flavor and texture. It does not mean the food becomes unsafe after that date.

Foods commonly using Best By dates:

• cereal

• crackers

• pasta

• canned goods

• snacks

These foods often remain safe well past the date if stored properly.

“Use By” — Quality for Most Foods, Safety for a Few

A Use By date usually refers to the last day the manufacturer guarantees peak quality. However, for infant formula, the Use By date is a safety date and should be followed strictly.

For all other foods, Use By is about quality, not spoilage.

“Sell By” — For Stores, Not Consumers

A Sell By date is meant for retailers. It helps stores rotate stock and manage inventory. It does not mean the food expires on that date.

Foods commonly using Sell By dates:

• dairy

• meat

• eggs

These foods are often safe for days or weeks after the Sell By date if stored correctly.

“Freeze By” — Quality Guidance

A Freeze By date tells you the last recommended day to freeze the product for best quality. It does not indicate spoilage.

How Long Foods Stay Safe After the Date

General guidelines (assuming proper refrigeration):

• Milk: 5–7 days past Sell By

• Yogurt: 1–2 weeks past Sell By

• Eggs: 3–5 weeks past Sell By

• Cheese: varies widely; hard cheeses last longer

• Packaged bread: 5–7 days past Best By

• Canned goods: years past Best By if unopened and undamaged

Always check for signs of spoilage, not just the date.

When Dates DO Matter for Safety

Some foods are more sensitive:

• fresh meat

• poultry

• seafood

• prepared deli foods

• infant formula

For these items, follow Use By or Sell By more closely and rely on smell, texture, and appearance.

Check the Package Condition

Regardless of the date, packaging issues can make food unsafe:

• bulging cans

• leaking packages

• broken seals

• swollen lids

• unusual odors

If the package looks compromised, don’t use it.

SafeFoodSignals Guidance

Use this quick checklist when evaluating date codes:

1. Best By = quality, not safety.

2. Use By = quality, except infant formula (safety).

3. Sell By = for stores, not consumers.

4. Freeze By = quality guidance only.

5. Check for spoilage signs, not just dates.

6. Store foods properly to extend safety and freshness.

Understanding these codes helps reduce waste and keeps your kitchen safer.

For more on how recalls work, read our Food Recall Breakdown.