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Health & Fitness

Do Food Expiration Dates Really Matter?

If you know the lingo, it will save a lot of thrown away food. So I’m here to clear up any misconceptions of the “Expired” food label.

Expiration Date -  Refers to the last date a food should be eaten or used. Last means last — proceed at your own risk.

Sell by Date – The last day the item is at its highest level of quality, but it will still be edible for some time after.

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Best if used by (or before) Date – This refers strictly to quality, not safety. This date is recommended for best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.

• Born on Date – This is the date of manufacture and has been resurrected recently to date beer. Beer can go sub-par after three months.

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• Guaranteed fresh Date -  This usually refers to bakery items. They will still be edible after the date, but will not be at peak freshness.

 

• Use by Date -  This is the last date recommended for the use of the product while at peak quality.

Only items required by federal law to be labeled for expiration are infant formula and some baby foods.

For more information on expired food, check out WebMd.  Hopefully these quick facts will save a lot of food from being wasted.



Have more questions?  Call (858-224-2299) to speak to someone directly.

Household Guardians launched in late 2012, works mainly with the elderly and their families, focusing on the concerns of aging-in-place.  After an in-depth assessment of the house and any hazards that may be present, on-site solutions are provided using low-tech and high-tech product ideas to maximize the safety aspects within and outside the house. 

Household Guardians wants our seniors to retain their independence and dignity and we want the next generation to take the steps to create safe home environments for themselves and worry less about the elders.

Learn more at www.householdguardians.com

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