Expiration Dates Explained
Updated: 4 hours ago
Expiration dates explained: most dates on food tell you when a product is at its best quality. Julie Divis, our Quality Manager, breaks down what each phrase means and how to read the date on your beef.
How long can you keep beef? How long can you keep dairy? Julie Divis, our Quality Manager, is here to explain the science behind expiration dates and help us all understand how they work on the different products at the grocery store.
Expiration dates are meant to tell you when a product is at its best quality, so you get the best eating experience at home. You have probably seen many variations of the wording, because there is no regulation around it.
Sell by, use by, best by, freeze by: what is the difference?
Sell by: found on butcher counter, deli, and prepared food items. It tells you the date to purchase by, not the date to eat it. After this date, it is up to you to decide if the product meets your expectations.
Best before or best if used by: how companies describe peak quality on crackers, spices, and other shelf-stable ingredients. You will see it in the freezer section, too.
Use by: found on perishable foods like dairy and pre-packaged meats. After this date, the taste and texture might be off, and the company cannot guarantee the product will meet your quality expectations.
Use or freeze by: the phrase we use at Pre Brands. It tells you when to eat the product or put it in the freezer.
How long does Pre beef last?
You will find that Pre meat has a longer shelf life than meat you buy behind the counter. That is because Pre is vacuum-sealed, and we have run many tests to make sure your beef has the highest quality until the date on the package. See the results of our five-day fridge test, and learn why beef changes color when the oxygen is removed.
How to keep beef at its best
Temperature is critical to quality. Because our products are refrigerated, you should:
Shop for perishable items last.
Keep a cooler bag in your car for the ride home.
Put your perishable products in the refrigerator as quickly as possible.
Watch: expiration dates explained
FAQ
Is it safe to eat food past its expiration date?
Most dates describe quality, not safety, but safety also depends on how food was handled and stored. Check the date, and trust your senses: a sour smell or a slimy texture means toss it.
What does "use or freeze by" mean on Pre beef?
It is the date by which you should either cook your Pre beef or put it in the freezer to keep it at its best quality.
What is the difference between sell by and use by?
Sell by tells a store how long to display a product. Use by tells you when the product is at its best quality at home.
Not going to eat it by the date? Learn how long steak can stay in the freezer.
Where can I buy Pre 100% Grass-Fed & Finished Beef?
Pre Brands beef is a lean, High Protein, delicious way to keep dinner healthy. Use our store locator to find a store near you, browse all Pre products, or find us on Instacart. New to grass-fed? Start with Grass-Fed Beef 101.
