What Do the Dates Really Mean?

The first thing to understand is that the dates printed on canned goods rarely have to do with safety. Instead, they are indicators of quality.

• “Best By” or “Best Before” dates: These mark when the manufacturer believes the food will taste its freshest. After that date, the flavor, texture, or color may decline slightly, but the food often remains safe.
• “Use By” dates: These are meant for more perishable items like dairy or meat—not canned goods. They point to peak quality, not an absolute safety deadline.

So, if you see that a can of beans is “past date,” it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to panic.