What do use by and est before dates mean?
A16 ‘Best before’ dates are used on foods with a long shelf life (for example, biscuits) and are for guidance only. ‘Use by’ dates are used on foods with a short shelf life (for example, packaged sandwiches and cooked meats). It is illegal to sell food after its ‘use by’ date due to the health risks associated in consuming such foods. Top of page.
16 ‘Best before’ dates are used on foods with a long shelf life (for example, biscuits) and are for guidance only. ‘Use by’ dates are used on foods with a short shelf life (for example, packaged sandwiches and cooked meats). It is illegal to sell food after its ‘use by’ date due to the health risks associated in consuming such foods. Top of page.