What does best by mean?

"Best by" is a term used on food products to indicate the date after which the quality of the food may decline. It's not a "use by" date, which means the food is unsafe to eat after that date.

Here's a breakdown:

* Best by: Indicates the date until which the food is expected to be at its peak quality in terms of flavor, texture, and nutritional value.

* Use by: Indicates the date after which the food may become unsafe to eat due to spoilage or bacteria growth.

Important note: While food may not be as fresh or flavorful after the "best by" date, it is generally safe to consume. However, you should inspect the food carefully for signs of spoilage before eating it.

Here are some things to consider:

* Type of food: Some foods, like fresh produce, have a shorter "best by" window than others, like canned goods.

* Storage conditions: Proper storage can extend the "best by" date of food.

* Your individual preference: Ultimately, it's up to you to decide whether or not you want to eat food after its "best by" date.

Remember, "best by" dates are just guidelines. Use your senses to determine if a food is safe and enjoyable to eat.