Shelf Life of Ingredients

Most food products have a date stamped on their packaging. These dates aren't required by the federal government, but they are useful to consumers. There are three types of dates you need to know:

1. A Sell-By date tells you how long a store can display products for sale. Products need to be purchased before the date expires.
2. A Best if used by or before date is one that serves as a recommendation for the best quality and flavor. This isn't an indication of food safety.
3. A Use By date is the last possible date for recommended product use at peak quality. This date is determined by the manufacturer and often refers to the best quality and not the product safety.

These dates don't always relate to the product use after purchase and home storage, with the exception of the Use By date. If other dates expire while you have it stored at home, then they should be safe and of good quality to use as long as they are handled properly.

Foods will often develop an odd odor, appearance or flavor as a result of bacteria spoilage. If you notice these characteristics, you shouldn't use that product. Mishandled food has an increased chance of bacteria and pathogens that could result in food-borne illness before or after the package date.

This would include food left unrefrigerated longer than two hours or being handled by someone who doesn't follow proper sanitation practices. To ensure safety and quality, you always want to follow handling and preparation instructions on the product label.