Soup
Why Expiration Dates Are So Confusing
In the U.S., food manufacturers use a variety of date labels — but none are federally regulated for most foods (except infant formula).
The result?
A patchwork of terms that sound serious but aren’t standardized.
Best if Used By
Indicates peak flavor and quality — not a safety warning.
Use By
Suggested last date for best quality (often used for perishables).
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