Are you confused by labels that tell you when food is freshest? Here's some guidance

By Maria Godoy

Published December 13, 2024 at 4:32 PM EST

The FDA is trying to find out why food companies use the labels they do. Food waste and food safety experts share what these labels mean and how to reduce food waste while making sure food is fresh.

Maria Godoy

Maria Godoy is a senior science and health editor and correspondent with NPR News. Her reporting can be heard across NPR's news shows and podcasts. She is also one of the hosts of NPR's Life Kit.

See stories by Maria Godoy

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Donate