Most people get this wrong and toss out the can. The right way to read ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ dates.

 

The Truth About “Best By” and “Best Before” Dates on Canned Food

Most people get this wrong and toss out the can — here’s the right way to read those dates

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Introduction: Why “Best By” Dates Cause So Much Confusion

Every grocery shopper has been there: staring at the shelf or in the pantry, seeing a can of beans or soup with a “Best By” or “Best Before” date that’s just passed, and wondering—Is this still safe to eat? Many people throw out perfectly good food because they misunderstand these labels.

The truth? These dates often indicate quality rather than safety, and canned food usually lasts well beyond those printed dates if stored properly. Tossing cans simply because they’re “past date” leads to unnecessary food waste and money down the drain.

This guide dives into:

• What these labels really mean

• The difference between safety dates and quality dates

• How to tell if canned food is still good

• Tips for proper storage

• How to reduce waste and save money by reading dates correctly

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Section 1: Understanding the Different Types of Dates on Food

1.1 What Does “Best By” or “Best Before” Mean?

• These terms refer to quality dates. They indicate the date until which the manufacturer guarantees the product will be at its peak flavor, texture, and nutritional value.

• Importantly, these are not safety expiration dates.

• After the date passes, the food might start to lose flavor, color, or texture but can still be safe to eat.

1.2 Sell By, Use By, and Expiration Dates — What’s the Difference?

• Sell By Date: Primarily for retailers to know how long to display the product. Not a safety date.

• Use By Date: Typically the last date recommended for use while at peak quality, sometimes used interchangeably with expiration dates on perishable items.

• Expiration Date: The date after which the food is considered unsafe to eat. Rarely used on canned goods because they last so long.

1.3 Are “Best By” and “Best Before” the Same?

Yes, generally, “Best By” and “Best Before” are used interchangeably in many countries and mean the manufacturer’s estimate of best quality.

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Section 2: The Science of Canned Food Shelf Life

2.1 How Does Canning Preserve Food?

Canning uses heat and airtight sealing to destroy bacteria and prevent recontamination.

• High temperatures kill microbes.

• Vacuum sealing prevents new bacteria or molds from entering.

• The can protects the food from light and air, which cause spoilage.

2.2 Why Do Cans Have “Best By” Dates If They Last So Long?

• Even though canned food is shelf-stable, chemical and physical changes happen over time.

• Flavors can fade, oils can oxidize, and textures can soften or toughen.

• Nutrient levels may decline slowly.

Manufacturers choose “Best By” dates based on these quality factors to recommend when the product is best enjoyed.

2.3 How Long Do Canned Foods Actually Last?

• Most high-acid canned foods (tomatoes, fruits) last 12 to 18 months at best quality.

• Low-acid canned foods (meats, vegetables) can last 2 to 5 years or longer.

• Some canned foods have been found safe and edible decades past the date if stored well.

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Section 3: How to Read and Interpret Canned Food Dates Correctly

3.1 Don’t Rely on the Date Alone

• The “Best By” date is a guideline, not a hard expiration.

• If the can is intact (no rust, dents, or swelling), and stored properly, food is likely safe.

3.2 Check the Condition of the Can

• Bulging or leaking cans: Throw away immediately — a sign of bacterial growth and potential botulism risk.

• Rusty cans: May compromise the seal and safety — best to discard if severe.

• Dents: Small dents often okay; deep dents near seams or punctures are dangerous.

3.3 Use Your Senses

• Once opened, inspect contents for off smells, colors, or textures.

• If anything seems off, discard. Never taste suspicious food.

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Section 4: Proper Storage to Maximize Shelf Life

4.1 Store Cans in a Cool, Dry Place

• Heat speeds up degradation; keep cans away from stoves, heaters, or direct sunlight.

• Ideal storage temperature: 50–70°F (10–21°C).

4.2 Avoid Freezing or Excessive Moisture

• Freezing can damage the can integrity.

• Moisture causes rust, risking seal failure.

4.3 Rotate Your Stock

• Use the FIFO (First In, First Out) method—older cans first to reduce waste.

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Section 5: Reducing Food Waste by Smarter Reading of Dates

5.1 Common Misconceptions Leading to Waste

• Confusing “Best By” with “Use By” or expiration dates.

• Throwing out cans immediately after the printed date.

• Discarding food based on “sell by” dates from stores.

5.2 Food Safety Agencies on Date Labels

• The USDA and FDA state that most canned foods are safe after the “Best By” date if stored properly.

• Quality might decrease, but safety usually remains intact.

5.3 Tips for Consumers

• Learn to trust your senses (smell, sight, texture) alongside date labels.

• Keep a well-organized pantry to know what you have and when it was bought.

• Use apps or labels to track dates at home.

• Donate canned foods before dates to food banks.

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Section 6: What To Do If You’re Unsure

• When in doubt, open and inspect.

• Discard if can is compromised or food smells/tastes off.

• Remember: Botulism risk is real with damaged cans—never taste suspicious canned foods.

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Section 7: Additional FAQs

Q: Can canned food make me sick after the “Best By” date?

A: Not if the can is undamaged and the food looks and smells normal. The date relates to quality, not safety.

Q: How can I tell if canned food is bad?

A: Signs include bulging cans, leaks, rust, foul odors, or discoloration inside the can.

Q: Why don’t manufacturers use expiration dates instead of “Best By”?

A: Because canned food generally remains safe indefinitely if the can is intact; quality degrades before safety.

Q: Is it safe to eat canned food after several years?

A: Usually yes, if stored properly and the can is intact, but texture and flavor may suffer.

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Conclusion: The Right Way to Read and React to “Best By” and “Best Before” Dates

Throwing out canned food based solely on “Best By” dates leads to enormous food waste and money lost. Understanding that these dates refer to **quality—not safety—**allows you to make smarter decisions.

Always inspect the can and contents. Store cans properly to extend shelf life. Rotate your stock to use older items first.

By reading labels correctly, trusting your senses, and knowing the science, you can enjoy your canned goods safely long after the “Best By” date—and reduce food waste significantly.