State to Update ‘Sell By’ Food Labels, Experts Discuss Implications
Changes to 'Sell By' food labels are coming to at least one state, according to a report from PBS News. Experts discussed the implications of these food date labels and how they can affect food and money.
Seattle Tacoma, WA, July 31, 2026 —
In a move that could impact consumers and retailers alike, at least one state is set to implement changes to its ‘Sell By’ food labeling system. The development was highlighted in a recent report by PBS News, which also explored the potential consequences of these updated food date labels on food waste and household budgets.
The exact nature of the label changes and the specific state involved were not detailed in the initial report. However, experts have begun to weigh in on the broader implications of evolving food date labeling practices. These labels, often a source of confusion for consumers, can lead to unnecessary discarding of food that is still safe to eat, thereby contributing to food waste and increasing grocery expenses.
Historically, terms like ‘Sell By,’ ‘Best By,’ and ‘Use By’ have been used on food packaging. ‘Sell By’ dates typically indicate to retailers the last date they should offer a product for sale. ‘Best By’ or ‘Best if Used By’ dates suggest when a product will be at its peak quality, while ‘Use By’ dates are generally recommendations for when a product should be consumed for optimal safety and quality. The distinction between these dates, and the public’s understanding of them, has been a significant factor in food waste discussions.
According to industry analyses and consumer advocacy groups, a clearer and more standardized system for food dating could empower consumers to make more informed decisions about purchasing and consuming food. This, in turn, could lead to a reduction in the amount of edible food being thrown away. Such a reduction could have a dual benefit: helping households save money on groceries and contributing to a more sustainable food system.
The specific details regarding the upcoming changes in the unnamed state, including the timeline for implementation and the precise modifications to the labeling regulations, are yet to be fully disclosed. Further reporting is expected to shed light on these details as they become available.
Story summarized from the original created by Cascade PBS Staff on www.cascadepbs.org, see more information here.
