At least here, there's a lot of margin built into some use-by dates also. Since they are expecting the cold chain to be broken at least somewhat while you trans

At least here, there's a lot of margin built into some use-by dates also. Since they are expecting the cold chain to be broken at least somewhat while you transport that food home. A lot of stores here also do extreme discounts on things that expire that day or soon after. I've had so many dinners that were basically "oh, that thing's 80% off and I have to use it today. Fantastic."