Labels are important for making sure you dont eat something too far past its point of freshness or safety.
This is simply the date recommended to enjoy the item at its peak quality.
Will it be fresh tasting, and more important, is it safe to consume?
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It has nothing to do with the products safety value.
If you see any mold starting to form, you should toss the product immediately.
Extend it much longer than its use-by date and the quality becomes questionable.
What The Best-By Date Means
The best-by date refers to the overall quality of the product.
Is It Safe To Eat Food Items After Their Best-By And Use-By Dates?
Baking ingredients like white flour can last up to two years unopened and about eight months after opening.
Both baking soda and baking powder can last 18 months unopened and 6 months when opened.
Oats can last two years if stored in an airtight container.
In other words, your nose and eyes will help you make the right decision.
Check the USDAShelf-Stable Food Guidefor recommendations.
Some foods can seemingly last forever, depending on storage conditions.
USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.Food Product Dating.
USDA.Before You Toss Food, Wait.
USDA AskUSDA.Is food product dating required by federal law?
