Best Before Dates

Best Before Dates

Best before date is about quality and not safety.
The best before date will only be accurate if the food is stored according to the instructions on the label.

In-Date

This product is NOT near to its best before date.

Short Date 

This product is nearing it's best before date.

Out of Date 

This product has passed it's best before date.

The food will be safe to eat after this date but may not be at its best in flavour or texture.

Use by Date

Use by date is about safety and the most important date to remember! Foods can be eaten (and most can be frozen) up until the use by date, but not after. You will see use by dates on food that goes off quickly, such as meat products or ready-prepared salads. For the use by to be a valid guide, you must carefully follow storage instructions.

After the use by date, don't eat it, cook it or freeze it.

The food could be unsafe to eat or drink, even if it is stored correctly and looks and smells fine.

For more information 

Food Standards Agency

NHS

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