Best By vs Use By Dates

***Please keep in mind that British dates are written differently from American dates***

Ex. - British: 10/08/2024 = August 10, 2024

          American: 10/08/2024 = October 10, 2024

There can be some confusion surrounding Best By Dates vs Use By Dates. In the UK, food products often come with various date labels that help consumers understand how long a product will remain at its best quality and when it may no longer be safe to eat. Here’s an explanation of the common date labels you’ll find:

Best By or Best Before

• Label: "Best Before" or "Best Before End" (BBE)
• Meaning: This date indicates when the product is expected to be at its best quality, including texture and flavor. It is not about safety. Foods can often be consumed after the best before date, but they may not taste as good.
• Important Note: Food is still safe to eat after the best before date as long as it has been stored correctly and the packaging is intact.

2. Use By

• Label: "Use By"
• Meaning: This date is about food safety. It indicates the last day that the food can be safely consumed. Consuming food after the use by date can pose health risks.
• Important Note: Always follow storage instructions and do not consume food past this date.