Food safety regulations: Understanding expiration and shelf life labels

Food labeling regulations in Central Europe distinguish between different types of expiration dates to ensure consumer safety and product quality.

There are two primary designations: ‘Use by’ (Spotřebujte do / Spotreba do) and ‘Best before’ (Minimální trvanlivost / Minimálna trvanlivosť). The ‘Use by’ label applies to highly perishable goods such as dairy, fish, and chilled poultry. Once this date passes, the food is no longer guaranteed to be safe for consumption and must be removed from sale.

The ‘Best before’ label refers to the minimum shelf life of more stable products like pasta, biscuits, and canned goods. This date relates to quality rather than safety; after this period, a product may lose its aroma, color, or crispness but may still be safe to eat.

Furthermore, certain fresh items such as whole fruits, vegetables, and potatoes are legally exempt from mandatory expiration dating. However, this exemption does not apply to processed or pre-cut produce, such as bagged salad mixes, which must include a date. Authorities emphasize that retailers remain responsible for ensuring all products on shelves are fresh and free from spoilage, regardless of whether a date is printed on the packaging.