The Truth About Expiration Dates:

Are You Throwing Away Good Food?

THe best by date for Honey Maid Graham Crackers.

If you've ever tossed out a perfectly good carton of milk simply because it hit its "best by" date, you're not alone. More than 80% of Americans throw away food prematurely because they misunderstand expiration labels, creating about $30 billion a year in wasted food across the supply chain.

There are nearly 50 different types of date labels being used across the food industry since there is no federal regulation (except for infant formula). Manufacturers, food marketers, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration all use these terms to do different things without any real consistency. 

As part of our mission to combat food waste, La Soupe has been working alongside the Zero Food Waste Coalition and has written letters to the USDA to express our support for standardized date labels and ensure more food gets eaten by consumers instead of tossed. 

What Do Expiration Dates Really Mean?

Food labels are meant to guide consumers and retailers, but they’re often misinterpreted. Understanding what these dates signify can help you reduce food waste, save money, and make smarter decisions in the kitchen. 

A best before date on Orange Juice.

1. “Best If Used By” or “Best Before”

This expiration date label is all about quality, not safety. It’s the manufacturer’s way of saying, "Hey, this is when our product is at its peak flavor and texture." But just because that date has passed doesn’t mean the food is spoiled. Most items—like cereal, pasta, snacks, and even dairy—are still safe to eat well beyond this date.

2. “Sell By”

This expiration date label isn’t meant for you at all—it’s for store employees. It tells retailers how long they should keep a product on the shelf. The good news? This date builds in extra time so that once you buy the product, you still have plenty of time to enjoy it at home.

3. “Freeze By”

Your freezer is a wonderful tool for preserving food. If you can’t finish something before the date on the package, freezing it stops the clock, keeping it safe for months. Just remember to store it properly in airtight containers or freezer bags to avoid freezer burn.

Why Temperature Matters More Than Dates

The biggest factor in food safety isn’t the date on the package—it’s temperature. Perishable food should never sit in the “danger zone” (between 40-120°F) for too long. Leaving groceries in a hot car or failing to refrigerate leftovers promptly can make food unsafe, even if it hasn’t expired yet. Keeping your fridge at or below 40°F helps food stay fresh longer.

Trust Your Senses

Expiration dates don’t always tell the whole story, but your eyes and nose do. If food looks, smells, or feels off, it’s best to toss it. The main exceptions? Foods that pregnant women are advised to avoid, like soft cheeses and deli meats, should be eaten with extra caution.

Let’s Waste Less and Eat Smarter!

Food waste is a massive issue, and much of it comes from misunderstanding labels. By learning the real meaning behind expiration dates, you can save money, cut down on waste, and make the most of the food you buy. Next time you’re about to throw something away, take a second look—it might still be perfectly good.