Experts Urge Consumers to Trust Senses Over Expiration Dates for Food Safety
Experts are advising consumers in the United States to rely on senses like smell and taste rather than solely on expiration dates to determine food safety, as most date labels indicate quality rather than safety. California has enacted a law…
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, July 28, 2026 —
Consumers in the United States are being advised by experts to utilize their senses of smell and taste to assess food safety, rather than relying exclusively on expiration date labels. The prevailing guidance indicates that the majority of date labels on food products pertain to quality, not necessarily safety.
In response to this issue, California has implemented a new law that standardizes food labeling. Under this legislation, labels will now differentiate between “Best If Used By,” which signifies optimal quality, and “Use By,” which is designated for safety-related information. New York is reportedly considering a similar legislative measure.
The complexity of food dating is further highlighted by the fact that the only food category legally mandated to carry an expiration date is infant formula. This requirement is due to concerns about nutrient degradation, which can affect the nutritional value of the formula over time.
The shift in advice from experts suggests a broader understanding of food spoilage and preservation, encouraging consumers to become more attuned to the actual condition of their food items. This approach aims to reduce food waste by enabling individuals to make informed decisions based on sensory evaluation, while still emphasizing safety for specific products like infant formula.
Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.
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