Confusing date labels on food packaging have long contributed to significant household waste across the United States, leaving consumers unsure whether products are past their peak quality or unsafe to eat. Now, California is taking a decisive step to clarify this ambiguity with a new food labeling law set to take effect this Wednesday.
The legislation bans the use of "sell by" labels, which experts say primarily serve as a guide for retailers on shelf display rather than an indicator of food safety. Under the new mandate, manufacturers selling food in California must adopt one or both of two standardized labels: "Best if Used By" to denote peak quality, or "Use By" to indicate product safety.
