Have you ever looked at a milk carton or chicken package and wondered if it was still safe to eat even though the date on it had passed? You’re not by yourself.

Food expiration dates can be hard to understand, which is why many of us throw away perfectly good food just because the date on the package has passed. Knowing these dates is important for more than just avoiding waste. It helps you make smart decisions that are good for your budget and the environment.

Food products almost always have dates on them that tell us when they go bad. There are different kinds, like “Best if Used By,” “Use By,” and “Sell By.” People often get confused and waste food because of them. My first food date was a disaster at a family dinner, which made me feel bad about myself.

Even though I bought a bottle of milk not long ago, it was past its “Best if Used By” date. Even though the milk looked and smelled fine, I wasn’t sure if I should use it. This made me do a lot of research late at night to figure out what these labels really meant. This taught me a lot about food safety, quality, and reducing waste.

This label says “Best if Used By” and tells you how long the product should be at its best in terms of taste and quality. If you eat this food after this date, it might not taste as good, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad for you.

Use By: This is when the manufacturer thinks the product will be at its best. This date is especially important for things that go bad quickly, like meats and dairy. If you eat the food after this date, it might not be as good, but it’s usually still safe as long as you store it right.