What is Dating? “Open Dating” (use of a calendar date as opposed to a code) on a food product is a date stamped on a products package to help the store determine how long to display the product for sale. It can also help the purchaser to know the time limit to purchase or use the product at its best quality.

What is a best by date?

The Best By date refers to the date recommended that you use the product by for best physical and/or sensory quality. It is not an expiration date, but rather the date by which NOW Foods recommends consumption.

Are Food Expiration Dates real?

These dates arent required by federal law (though some states require them) and dont necessarily indicate a products safety (with the exception of baby formula). In fact, perishable products are usually safe to consume beyond their “best by” date if theyve been handled and stored properly.

Can I eat after best by date?

You can eat food until and on the use-by date but not after. After the use-by date, dont eat, cook or freeze your food. The food could be unsafe to eat or drink, even if it has been stored correctly and looks and smells fine.

Can food best by date?

Most shelf-stable foods are safe indefinitely. In fact, canned goods will last for years, as long as the can itself is in good condition (no rust, dents, or swelling). Packaged foods (cereal, pasta, cookies) will be safe past the best by date, although they may eventually become stale or develop an off flavor.

Can I eat food past the best by date?

A product will remain fresh and of good quality right up to the best-before date (and sometimes beyond), if it is properly stored, both at the store and at your home. It may still be safe to eat those foods after the best before date, but they may have lost quality and some nutritional value.

Is Ma short for May or March?

MA refers to May. As someone already said, the abbreviations are carefully chosen so that they work in both English and French. MA for mai or May. MR for mars or March.