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Source? Only a tiny subset of food is legally required to have an expiration date. In the UK this is the "use by" date. In Canada it's the "expiration date."
by latch 9y ago
Source?
Only a tiny subset of food is legally required to have an expiration date. In the UK this is the "use by" date. In Canada it's the "expiration date." But, you'll find this, or "best by" dates on way more products, because they want to move more product.
In the US, for example, only infant formula is required by federal law to have an expiration date (1). The same page states that: "Foods not exhibiting signs of spoilage should be wholesome and may be sold, purchased, donated and consumed beyond the labeled "Best if Used By" date."
(1) https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safety-education/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/food-labeling/food-product-dating/food-product-dating/ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safety...
- IAmEveryone 9y agoIn the UK, and the rest of the EU, there are only two packaged goods that do not need an expiration date: water, and table salt without iodine. The other exception is fresh fruits and vegetables. The legality and morality of donating food past its expiration date is somewhat murky and different depending on jurisdiction. I know France passed a law specifically allowing the practice, and its at least tolerated in Germany.