In nearly every pantry across the country, you’ll find canned soups, vegetables, beans, sauces, and other staples stamped with a mysterious little date. Many shoppers assume that the moment a product passes its “Best By” or “Best Before” date, it instantly becomes unsafe. Because of that common misconception, millions of cans are thrown away each year—even when the food inside is perfectly edible.

In reality, these dates rarely have anything to do with food safety, and misunderstanding them is a major driver of unnecessary food waste. Learning what these labels actually mean can help you save money, reduce waste, and feel confident about the foods sitting in your pantry.

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What ‘Best By’ really means (and why it’s often misunderstood)

“Best By” and “Best Before” dates are quality indicators, not expiration dates. Manufacturers choose these dates to show when a product is expected to taste its best—its freshest flavor, strongest aroma, and ideal texture. These dates are not required by federal law for most foods.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), with the exception of infant formula, these labels do not indicate safety and are simply meant to guide consumers on optimal quality. Manufacturers factor in taste tests, storage conditions, and packaging when determining these dates, but the product doesn’t suddenly spoil the day after.

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food Safety and Inspection Service.

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Common myths about expiration dates

One of the biggest myths is that “Best By” equals “Do Not Eat After.” In truth, canned foods—when stored correctly—can last well beyond their suggested dates without risk.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes that shelf-stable canned goods are heat-treated and sealed to prevent bacterial growth, making them safe for long periods as long as the can remains intact. The food inside might gradually lose flavor or firmness, but spoilage is uncommon unless the can is damaged.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Food Code Guidelines.

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‘Best By’ vs. ‘Use By’: Why the wording matters

Understanding the language on labels can prevent confusion:

• Best By / Best Before:
  Indicates best quality. Safe to eat past this date if the can is undamaged.

• Use By:
  Usually found on perishable foods (meat, dairy). This is the manufacturer’s recommended last day for peak quality, but it still does not always indicate safety, except for infant formula.

• Sell By:
  A stocking guide for retailers, not a consumer warning.

The FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) reports that inconsistent terminology is one of the leading contributors to global food waste.

Source: FAO Report on Food Loss & Waste, United Nations.

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How long can canned foods last after the ‘Best By’ date?

When stored properly—meaning kept in a cool, dry place between 50–70°F—most canned goods can last years beyond their printed dates. The USDA states that low-acid canned foods (like meats, vegetables) often remain safe 2–5 years, while high-acid foods (tomatoes, citrus fruits) keep well for 12–18 months beyond their date.

As long as the can is not:

• bulging

• rusted

• leaking

• significantly dented on seams

…the contents are typically safe to consume.

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The real test: Using your senses

Dates are guidelines; your senses are the real expiration check.

✔ Look

Inspect the can. Avoid anything bulging, swollen, cracked, or with deep seam dents.

✔ Smell

If you open the can and notice an off, sour, metallic, or foul scent—throw it out.

✔ Taste

If it looks and smells normal, try a tiny amount. If the taste is unusual or metallic, don’t eat it.

These methods are recommended by the NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), which actively studies food waste behavior.

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How to store canned foods to make them last longer

Good storage conditions can dramatically extend shelf life:

• Temperature: Keep cans in a cool, stable environment. Avoid hot garages or overly humid basements.

• Humidity: Moisture encourages rust—which can compromise the integrity of the can.

• Light: Store in a dark place to protect nutrients and flavor.

• Organization: Use the FIFO method (“First In, First Out”) so older cans get used first.

Proper storage ensures maximum quality long after the printed date has passed.

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Food waste: Why getting this right matters

The USDA and EPA estimate that between 30%–40% of all food produced in the U.S. ends up wasted every year. Misinterpreting date labels is believed to be one of the top contributors.

Throwing away a safe can of beans may seem small, but across households nationwide, it adds up to billions of dollars in losses and countless tons of food in landfills—where it contributes to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.

Learning label literacy doesn't just save money—it helps the planet.

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Simple ways to reduce waste through smarter date reading

• Don’t treat “Best By” as a safety cutoff.

• Store canned goods properly to prolong freshness.

• Regularly rotate pantry items.

• Buy perishable products in realistic quantities.

• Donate unopened foods nearing their date to community food banks.

Small changes in awareness can have a significant impact.

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Conclusion: Make smarter, more confident choices

Understanding the difference between quality dates and true safety concerns can help you make informed decisions about what’s in your pantry. “Best By” and “Best Before” dates are guidelines, not orders to discard food. With proper storage and a little common-sense evaluation, many canned goods remain perfectly good long past their printed dates.

Before tossing out that can, take a moment to check it properly—you might save money, reduce waste, and help protect the environment, all with one simple act.