USDA revises date labeling guidance to reduce food waste
Government updates 'best if used' by guidelines.
The US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued updated information aimed at encouraging food manufacturers and retailers to use a “Best if used by” date label.
With the exception of infant formula, federal regulations do not require product dating. Manufacturers often use “sell by” or “use by” on a voluntary basis. The different phrases can lead to consumer confusion and the disposal of food that is otherwise safe because it is past the date printed on the package.