READ THE LABEL
Product labels list a wealth of information. We read them, but do we really know what they mean? We’ll decipher some of them for you now.
First you must realize that product dating is not required by federal regulations. Except for infant formulas and some baby foods, the dating system is voluntarily placed on food products. With that in mind:
“Sell By” Lets the store know how long to display the product for sale. You should
not purchase after this date.
“Use By” This is the last date that is recommended for using the product while at its
peak quality. The producer determines this date.
This is not a purchase or safety date. It just tells consumers how long the
product will retain its best flavor and quality.
“Coded” These dates don’t indicate freshness or quality. They’re just packing
numbers that are used by the manufacturer to track inventory, rotate stock,
or locate a product if it’s under suspicion of a problem.
“Fat-free” Fewer than 0.5 grams of fat per serving.
“Low-fat” Equal to or less than 3 grams of fat per serving.
Has at least 25% less fat than the regular full fat product.
“Calorie-free” Less than 5 calories per serving.
“Low-calorie” Equal to or less than 40 calories per serving.
“Reduced Calories” “Fewer Calories”
Has at least 25% fewer calories than the original product.
“Cholesterol-free” Fewer than 2 mg cholesterol and 2 grams or less of saturated fat per
serving.
“Light” One-third fewer calories or one-half the fat or less of the full-fat
version.
“Lean” Fewer than 10 grams of fat overall, 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat,
and no more than 95 mg cholesterol per serving.