Use by and best before dates

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Use by

Use by dates tell us when food will become unsafe to eat. 

• You should not eat the food after this date.
• The use by date is only correct if food is stored properly and the packaging is sealed. For example, cooked meats should be stored in a fridge at 5° Celsius or less.

The food label will also tell us how long the food will stay safe after opening the packaging. Normally, you should eat it within 2 or 3 days.

Best before

Best before dates tells us when the quality of the food will begin to get worse.  

• It is when food might begin to lose its flavour and texture but it is safe to eat. 
• This date is only correct if food is stored as it says on the label. “Store in a cool dry place” or “Keep in the fridge once opened” are common storage instructions.

Closer look at food labels 

Food and drink labels normally include things like:

• The name of the food.
• The list of ingredients, starting with the ingredient of greatest weight and ending with the lowest.
• Use by and best before dates.
• Country of origin (where the food was produced).
• Storage instructions.
• Cooking instructions (if this applies).
• Name and address of the manufacturer, packer or seller in EU.
• Alcoholic strength of alcoholic drinks.
• Allergens that are present and allergens that may be contained.