FSSAI Clarifies 'Best Before' and 'Expiry' Dates on Food Labels to Ensure Consumer Safety

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a comprehensive guide to help consumers understand the key differences between 'best before' and 'expiry' dates on food labels. This initiative aims to educate the public on making informed decisions about food consumption.

According to FSSAI, the 'best before' date indicates the period during which the food product will maintain its optimal quality, including taste, texture, and nutritional value. This date does not imply that the food is unsafe to eat after the specified period. FSSAI states, 'After the best before date, the food product may lose taste, freshness, aroma or nutrients.'

Alternatively, the 'expiry' date is a critical marker for food safety. Consuming food past its expiry date can pose serious health risks. FSSAI warns, 'Never consume the food whose expiry date has passed, as it may be unsafe to eat and may cause health hazards.' This distinction is vital for preventing foodborne illnesses.

FSSAI advises consumers to always check the date of manufacture, best before use, and expiry date when purchasing packaged foods. The date of manufacture indicates when the product was made and packaged. The best before date ensures the food is consumed while it is still in perfect condition. For example, if a food product is packed on April 10, 2024, and has a best before date of three months, it should be consumed by July 10, 2024, to ensure optimal quality.

Understanding the difference between 'best before' and 'expiry' dates is essential for consumer safety and well-being, as it can prevent foodborne illnesses and promote safe food practices. Failure to do so can lead to serious health risks and even harm to consumers.

Understanding these dates is essential for consumer safety and well-being. Certain foods are more prone to bacterial growth after a certain period, and the expiry date helps consumers avoid potential health hazards. FSSAI emphasizes, 'If expiry date is June 30, 2020, then after this date the food item is unsafe to use and can be harmful for your health.'

By providing this guide, FSSAI aims to enhance consumer awareness and promote safe food practices. Properly understanding and adhering to 'best before' and 'expiry' dates can prevent food waste and protect against foodborne illnesses.

FSSAI's guidelines on 'best before' and 'expiry' dates are crucial for ensuring that consumers make informed choices about the food they consume, thereby safeguarding their health and well-being.

Key Takeaways

• 'Best before' date indicates optimal quality, not safety.
• 'Expiry' date marks critical food safety threshold.
• Check date of manufacture, best before, and expiry dates.
• 'Best before' date ensures optimal quality, not safety.
• Understanding dates prevents foodborne illnesses and waste.