New Law Takes Effect in California, Banning Expiration Date Labels on Food Packaging to Reduce Waste

(CNA San Francisco, July 1 - Combined Reports) A new law in California, United States, took effect today, prohibiting the labeling of expiration dates on food packaging. The aim is to eliminate widespread consumer misunderstanding that leads to discarding safe and edible food too early. The regulation only permits the labeling of "Best if Used By" or "Use By" dates.

Various labels on food packaging have always confused consumers, leaving them unsure whether food has passed its best-by date or is no longer suitable for consumption.

This new law, effective July 1, aims to reduce waste by preventing consumers from discarding edible food prematurely.

The new law prohibits the use of the phrase "sell by" on food packaging. Experts say this label was originally intended for retailers as a reference for when products should be removed from shelves, not as an indicator of food safety.

In the future, manufacturers selling food in California must uniformly use one of two standard labels: "Best if Used By," indicating the optimal consumption period, or "Use By," indicating the safety expiration date.

State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, a Democrat and the bill's author, said that food manufacturers can choose to use one or both labels.

California passed this new law in September 2024, and it takes effect today, making it the first state in the U.S. with uniform food labeling standards. The goal is to prevent food waste and reduce carbon emissions that contribute to climate change.

The New York State Assembly has also passed a similar bill, which is currently awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul's signature to become law.

Additionally, related legislation has been proposed in Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, South Carolina, and Massachusetts, but has not yet been passed. (Compiled by Chi Chin-ling) 1150702

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