In today’s world of packaged foods, labels like “Best By” and “Best Before” appear everywhere, yet most shoppers misunderstand what they really mean. Many assume these dates mark the exact point when food becomes unsafe. In reality, they’re more about quality than safety. That misunderstanding leads to a lot of perfectly edible food being tossed out, contributing to the growing issue of food waste. By learning how to correctly read these dates—especially on canned goods—consumers can make smarter, more sustainable choices that save money and reduce waste.

What “Best By” Dates Really Mean

The “Best By” date is set by manufacturers to show the period during which food is expected to taste its best, retain its color, and maintain nutritional value. Companies determine these dates based on the type of food, how it’s packaged, and how long it should stay fresh under normal storage conditions. With one exception—infant formula—these dates aren’t regulated by the federal government. That means they serve as guidelines, not strict safety cutoffs.

The Biggest Misconception

One of the most common mistakes people make is treating “Best By” labels like hard expiration dates. Just because the date has passed doesn’t mean the food instantly becomes dangerous. In many cases, the only change might be a slight dip in flavor or texture. This is especially true for shelf-stable items such as canned goods. When stored properly, they can remain safe and edible for years past their printed date. The key is knowing how to check for actual spoilage instead of relying only on a number on the package.

“Best By” vs. “Use By”

The confusion often grows when shoppers see different labels on products.

• Best By: Suggests when the food will be at peak quality.

• Use By: Typically found on highly perishable items such as milk, deli meats, or ready-to-eat salads. These dates are more safety-focused and should be followed closely, especially for foods that can harbor harmful bacteria.

Understanding the difference helps you avoid wasting safe food while still protecting yourself from items that truly can go bad.

Shelf Life of Common Canned Goods

Canned foods are some of the longest-lasting items in any pantry. While each type is a little different, most remain safe well past the “Best By” date if stored correctly. For example:

• Canned vegetables and beans can often last one to two years beyond the date.

• Canned meats or fish may remain good for three to five years.

• Canned tomatoes or fruit might not last as long because of higher acidity, but still often stay safe up to 18 months past the date.

The secret to extending shelf life is proper storage: keep cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Using Your Senses to Judge Safety

Even after the “Best By” date, canned goods can be perfectly fine. The best way to know? Trust your senses.

• Look: Avoid cans that are bulging, rusty, dented along seams, or leaking.

• Smell: If you notice sour, rotten, or metallic odors, it’s best to discard.

• Taste: If the food looks and smells normal, try a small bite. If the flavor seems off, don’t risk it.

These simple checks are far more reliable than the printed date.

The Role of Storage in Extending Life

Where and how you store food makes a big difference.

• Keep cans in a cool area, ideally between 50°F and 70°F.

• Avoid storing them in damp basements or hot garages.

• Protect them from direct sunlight, which can break down nutrients and change flavor.

When stored correctly, canned food can remain safe for far longer than most people realize.

The Bigger Problem: Food Waste

Every year, more than 30% of food in the U.S. ends up in the trash. Much of this is due to misinterpreting date labels. Throwing out good food isn’t just a waste of money—it also hurts the environment. Food waste fills landfills, and as it breaks down, it produces methane gas, a major contributor to climate change. Learning to read and interpret labels correctly is a small but powerful step in tackling this global problem.

Simple Ways to Reduce Food Waste

You can take easy steps to cut down on waste:

• Don’t panic over “Best By” dates; they’re about quality, not safety.

• Rotate your pantry items so the older ones get used first (the “First In, First Out” rule).

• Be realistic about how much perishable food you buy so it doesn’t go bad before you eat it.

• Donate shelf-stable foods that are nearing their “Best By” dates to food banks if you know you won’t use them.

Final Takeaway

Knowing how to read “Best By” and “Best Before” labels can make you a smarter, more conscious consumer. Instead of relying only on printed dates, combine label guidance with your own senses and proper storage habits. Doing so helps you save money, reduce food waste, and create a more sustainable household. Next time you’re about to toss that can of beans just because the date passed—take a second look. Chances are, it’s still perfectly good.