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The difference between use-by and best-before dates

Author Damien Wilde
Posted On 30th November 2016

The-difference-between-use-by-and-best-before-dates

As consumers we are privy to so much more information about our food than at any other time, with so much information to digest, we still hear people confused by ‘use-by’ and ‘best-before’ dates.

This might clear up some common misconceptions about your food, and when it’s safe to eat them!

The ‘use-by’ date is for food safety purposes

Probably the most important date to remember or look out for when buying any produce. Foods can be eaten (or frozen for later consumption) right up until the use by date, so long as they are stored correctly during this time.

The use-by date tends to be seen or attached to foods that deteriorate quickly, such as meats or pre-prepared salad foods.

As long as you follow the storage guidance, and of course only consume up until the use-by date listed, these foods are safe to consume or use.

‘Best-before’ is about maintaining food quality

Foods that list a ‘best-before’ date tend to be longer life food items, the best-before date serves as guidance for when the food item will taste it’s best.

Beyond this listed date, it may taste significantly different, flavour may be poorer and all around quality lessened.

Usually foods such as frozen, dried, tinned and vacuum sealed items will have a ‘best-before’ date attached. As long as these items are stored as per package instructions, the date will be accurate.

How to increase the longevity of your food

Food waste is a big problem, by following our tips you can save money, simply by eating, cooking or freezing food before it’s use by date.

1. Plan your meals ahead

planned-meals

Try planning your meals ahead of time, if you have something in your fridge or freezer utilise it in a recipe before going shopping.

Easier said than done, but this could save you a lot of money. Keeping track of food approaching the of it’s lifespan and incorporating it into your recipes is cheaper than throwing it out and starting the cycle again.

2. If it smells fine it might not be

Certain foods can look perfectly fine and smell fine well after it’s use by date. Pungent food might pose a problem as when can you tell if it doesn’t smell right?

Just because it looks acceptable and smells okay, doesn’t mean it’s safe to eat.

Unfortunately we can’t see, smell or taste the microbes that can cause food poisoning.

Is it worth the risk? Probably not.

3. Freeze or cook it

frozen-meat

Lots of supermarkets have good multi-buy or bulk-buy options, so if you do happen to purchase a large amount of a product, then freeze it!

Or if you make a large batch of a particular food, then consider freezing!

Most dishes will keep in the freezer for around 6 months with no loss of quality.

Haven’t got access to a quality freezer? Then check out our freezer range.

4. Seal it

When using any type of raw food it’s important to store it properly, so get your food tightly wrapped in a freezer bag, cling film or kitchen foil before storing in the fridge or freezer.

An air tight container is also a good choice for storing larger amounts of food.

Try to expel the air from any containers or wrapping before storing.

5. Consider dried or pickled foods

pickled-foods

Dried food tends to last way beyond the standard shelf life of fresh foods, again, as long as they are stored correctly in a cool, dry place.

Dehydrated foods last longer, as moisture becomes a key catalyst in food contamination.

Pickled foods are protected from outside influence by a vinegar solution.

6. Defrost food overnight in the fridge

Safely defrosting food is just as important as using before it becomes unusable.

Eating raw or uncooked meats, such as chicken, can be a serious health risk.

Still confused?

If you’re still not quite sure about the difference, or need a little more visual help then check out this fantastic video guide from The Food Standards Agency. It should put your mind at ease about best practice with raw foods.


Want to improve your food safety standards? Need access to quality refrigerated, chilled or freezer storage? Then take a look at our online catalogue, or call 01977 687 665 to speak to discuss your options with a friendly member of our team.

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