What does the “sell by”, “use by” and “best if used by” statements on food items mean?
Use by dates are usually on perishables and need to be used by that date. Think lunchmeat. Sell by dates are usually on milk, eggs, etc. and are good past that date until they spoil (i.e. sour milk). Best if used by dates only affect quality. Most can be used well past that date. Crackers may be stale but can easily be revived in the oven. Spices or flavorings may clump together like in rice mixes or instant oatmeal, But they will unclump when heated.
