What is the difference between 'Expiry date' and 'Best before date' on food labels? FSSAI explains

Do you ever read your food labels carefully? The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken to X (formerly Twitter) and revealed how to read food labels ideally. Many of us get confused with an 'expiry date' and 'best before date'. Let us know what is the difference between the two.

What is expiry date?

While buying any food product, it is essential that you read labels and know the ingredients and nutritional value. Certain foods become more susceptible to bacterial growth over time, while others taste fine after their 'best before date.'

Explaining what 'Expiry date' means, FSSAI said, “If the expiry date is June 30, 2020, then after this date, the food item is unsafe to use and can be harmful to you. Never consume food whose expiry date has passed, as it may be unsafe to eat and may cause health hazards."

Ensure reading labels before purchasing of any packaged food. Must watch this video to understand The difference between Expiry date and Best before date. #EveryLabelSpeaks #FSSAI @MoHFW_INDIA pic.twitter.com/qpnuvhHC9g

— FSSAI (@fssaiindia) June 1, 2024

What is 'best before date'?

“While buying food products, always check the date of manufacture, best before date, and expiry date,” says a video posted by the FSSAI on X.

The video further explains that the date of manufacture indicates when the product was made and packaged. The best-before date signifies the period during which the food is in its optimal condition for consumption.

“After the best-before date, the food product may lose its taste, freshness, aroma, or nutrients. It does not necessarily mean that the food is no longer safe to eat,” explains the FSSAI.

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