So what is the difference between USE BY and BEST BEFORE?

It's a question often asked... how far can you push a USE BY date before it becomes inedible? And what if you buy product for a fraction of the cost because it has passed it's BEST BEFORE date?

There is a definite difference between Best Before dates and Use By dates.

BEST BEFORE DATE

A date printed on any product indiciating a BEST BEFORE date is up to and including when the food can be expected to remain at peak quality if correctly store. Most foods may be eaten after this date, however the quality of the item will suffer. An example, biscuits that are eaten past their BEST BEFORE date can often be stale. Take this date as a guideline as to when the food should preferably be eaten before, however is safe to be eaten for a suitable period of time after. Use your judgement when consuming foods that are beyond their BEST BEFORE date.

USE BY DATE

This date is used for foods which are highly perishable and can, after a certain period, cause an immediate health risk. An example, pre prepared sandwiches, fresh meats/fish and some ready prepared meals. Take this date as the cut off for when the food MUST be consumed.

Products such as bread and eggs are highly perishable however are provided with a BEST BEFORE date. Use your judgement when consuming after the date printed on the item.