“Best Before Date” (BBD), or “Recommended Consumption Date”, as it is often referred to in the food and cosmetics industry, refers to the deadline by which a product can be consumed at its best quality. It does not mean that the product will spoil; however, the manufacturer guarantees that the product will retain its taste, texture and nutritional values until the specified date.
Differences between BOD and Expiration Date
Although BBD is often confused with “Best Before Date” (BOD), these two terms have different meanings:
- Best Before Date (BBD): The date when the product will offer the best quality.
- Expiration Date (EOD): The product should not be consumed after this date, it may pose a health risk.
BBD is more commonly used in products such as dry foods, pasta, chocolate, canned food and cosmetics, while SKT is usually found in products with a high risk of spoilage, such as dairy, meat and pharmaceuticals.
The Importance of BBD and its Impact on Consumers
The BBD gives consumers information on how long a product can be consumed in the best quality. In this way:
- Food waste is prevented,
- Products are not thrown away unnecessarily,
- Consumers can make informed purchases.
Dry food and cosmetics in particular are generally safe to use even after the BBD has passed. However, if a change in the appearance, smell or taste of the product is noticed, it should be avoided.
Which Products Contain BBD?
The BBD label is usually found on the following products:
- Dry foods (rice, pasta, flour, legumes)
- Canned food
- Snacks (chocolate, biscuits, crackers)
- Cosmetic products (cream, shampoo, make-up)
- Beverages (carbonated drinks, juices, coffee)
Even if such products contain BBD, they may be safe to use under the right storage conditions.
Factors Influencing BBD
The duration of BBD depends on various factors such as the product’s ingredients and storage conditions:
- Storage temperature: Products that are not stored at the appropriate temperature may spoil faster.
- Humidity: High humidity can degrade the structure of the products.
- Packaging condition: Opened or damaged packages may shorten the shelf life.
Product Use After BBD
Whether a product with an expired BBD date can be consumed depends on the type of product and storage conditions. If there is no abnormal change in the smell, texture or taste of the product, it is generally safe to use. However, in cases of doubt, it is safest not to consume the product.
Conclusion
BBD (Best Before Date) is an important piece of information that indicates the date when a product can be consumed at its best quality. However, once this date has passed, the product does not spoil immediately. By paying attention to the storage conditions of products, consumers can prevent unnecessary food waste and shop responsibly. Knowing the difference between the Expiration Date and the Best Before Date is of great importance for healthy and safe consumption.
