Hidden behind jars of pasta sauce and bags of rice, most pantries have a few forgotten cans — maybe beans, soup, or vegetables pushed to the back and left for years. When people finally find them, their instinct is usually to check the printed date. Seeing that it’s long expired, they toss it immediately. But in truth, most “expired” canned foods are still safe to eat. The dates printed on those labels rarely mean what people think they do — and understanding that difference can save money, reduce waste, and maybe even challenge a few long-held kitchen myths.
The Real Meaning Behind Expiration Dates
Food labeling is confusing by design. Terms like “Best By,” “Best Before,” and “Use By” aren’t standardized expiration dates but manufacturer recommendations about peak quality.
“Best By” or “Best Before” indicates the period when the product tastes and looks its best. After that date, the flavor or texture might decline slightly, but it’s still safe to eat.
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