Most kitchens across the world have at least one forgotten can of food hiding in the back of a pantry shelf or tucked away behind other groceries.

It might be a can of beans,  soup, vegetables, or even fruit. When the expiration date or “best by” date on the label passes, many people instinctively think the food is no longer safe to consume and promptly throw it away.

However, this common reaction is often unnecessary and based on a misunderstanding of what those dates really mean. In fact, the dates printed on canned goods usually refer to the product’s peak quality rather than its safety.

This means that while the flavor, texture, or appearance of the food might deteriorate over time, the food itself can still be safe to eat for months or even years beyond the printed date, provided the can has been stored correctly and remains undamaged.

Understanding the different types of date  labels found on food packaging is important. “Best By,” “Best Before,” and “Use By” dates often confuse consumers. The terms “Best By” or “Best Before” indicate the…