Federal agencies seek to clarify “Sell By,” “Use By,” and “Best By” terms to prevent food waste.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a joint Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights on food date labeling practices, including terms like “Sell By,” “Use By,” and “Best By.” The agencies are exploring how current labeling practices and consumer interpretations may contribute to the premature disposal of safe and wholesome food. This input could guide future policies and education campaigns to help consumers make informed decisions while reducing waste and costs.
“Food labels contain a wealth of information for consumers, including a food product’s ‘best if used by’ date,” said Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food Safety Emilio Esteban. “Through this Request for Information, we hope to learn more about how those date labels are determined and whether they confuse consumers and lead to needless food waste.”
This initiative aligns with the National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics, which seeks to cut food waste by 50 percent by 2030. USDA estimates that the average family of four wastes at least $1,500 worth of food annually.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Under Secretary Esteban to be led by the Lord as he heads the effort to reduce the nation’s food waste.
- For USDA and FDA officials as they seek public input on food labeling practices.
Sources: Food and Drug Administration
