Who, What, Why: What is the point of 'best-before' dates?

[The Dragon Master]

Best-before dates on food could be reformed, the UK government has indicated. But what purpose do they actually serve?



Ministers say they are in for a shake-up, but best-before labels are a familiar sight to every British shopper.



Current guidance from the Food Standards Agency says they are supposed to tell the consumer more about quality than safety - indicating when a product may begin to lose its flavour and texture, but not that the product becomes dangerous to eat.



By contrast, use-by dates apply to food that goes off quickly, such as meat products, which may put health at risk if eaten after a certain time period.



Anti-waste campaigners argue that best-before encourages consumers to throw out products that may be perfectly fine - but the retail industry says they are a reliable guide which help consumers plan ahead.



By law, pre-packed food must display a best-before date.

Rest of article and link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-13115226

 

[Jazzy]

Here in the US we also have best if used by dates. I don't pay any attention to those dates. I'm checking the expiration dates instead. I also have found that when I go food shopping, I always take items behind the ones on the front of the shelf. Why? They put items in the front that are about to expire and stock the newer items behind them.

 

[Rapunzel]

I also have found that when I go food shopping, I always take items behind the ones on the front of the shelf. Why? They put items in the front that are about to expire and stock the newer items behind them.

I do this too & for the same reason.

 

[JasonBegheFanGirl]

Here in the US we also have best if used by dates. I don't pay any attention to those dates. I'm checking the expiration dates instead. I also have found that when I go food shopping, I always take items behind the ones on the front of the shelf. Why? They put items in the front that are about to expire and stock the newer items behind them.

I do that too

 

[Cranos]

I never shop for more than 3 days in a row so I don't really check any dates.