A Simple Guide to Understanding Dates on Canned Goods

Most kitchens have a few canned goods tucked away—soups, beans, vegetables, or sauces saved for busy days. When the printed date passes, many people assume the food is no longer safe and throw it away. In reality, most dates on canned foods are not strict expiration deadlines. Labels like “Best By” or “Best Before” usually indicate peak quality, meaning the...