California becomes first state to ban 'sell-by' dates on food packaging

[IcyPeas]

I always look at dates on my foodstuffs. Do you? If this makes it more accurate that's good. A lot of stuff gets tossed from supermarkets that is still perfectly safe to eat. (It talks about food labels.... was wondering if it'll apply to vitamins. I always toss vitamins that reach the use by date.)

What do you think?

Food labels that say “sell by” or “best before” are misleading because they have no universal meaning under current laws. Now California wants to crack down on such practices, bidding to help consumers stop playing guessing games with produce and other items in their fridges.

.... nearly 20% of the nation's food waste, according to the Food and Drug Administration. In California, that's about 6 million tons of unexpired food that's tossed in the trash each year.
...
The law is set to take effect in July 2026, establishing a new standard for food labeling in California. It will require the use of “Best if Used By” label to signal peak quality and “Use By” label for product safety, an approach recommended by federal agencies. The law provides exemption for eggs, beer and other malt beverages.

https://www.ksby.com/life/food-and-drink/california-becomes-first-state-to-ban-sell-by-dates-on-food-packaging