The Big Myth: Food Expiration Dates

The only requirement is that the food is wholesome and fit for consumption. Laws Vary By State — States have varying food dating laws. For example, many states require that milk and other perishables be sold before the expiration date, while others do not. So you may eat the food after the use by date, but it likely is not going to be at peak quality. This is the last date stores are supposed to display the product for sale, after the Sell By Date the stores should remove the product, the Shelf Life has expired. Use of either a "Sell-By" or "Expiration" date is not a Federal regulation, butbe required, as defined by the egg laws in the state. Many consumers have questions about food expiration dates. exception of baby formula, there are no federal regulations on date labeling. Most of the times food manufacturers print these dates because of governmental regulations or because the retail industry wants it to be there.