Senate bill would standardize food date labels to two federally defined phrases

What does this do?

S 2541 establishes a national standard limiting food date labels to two phrases: "BEST If Used By," indicating the food remains safe but may decline in quality after that date, and "USE By," indicating the food should not be eaten after that date. Companies are not required to print any date, but if they do, they must use one of these two phrases. Infant formula is excluded and keeps its existing rules.

Who does it affect?

Food manufacturers and grocery stores must update their packaging within two years of the law passing. Everyday shoppers, and state governments whose own label regulations would be partially preempted, are also affected.

Why does it matter?

States would be barred from creating their own versions of the two label phrases and from prohibiting the sale of food solely because it has passed a "BEST If Used By" date, though they could still restrict sale or donation of food past a "USE By" date. The federal government would be required to run public education campaigns explaining the meaning of both phrases.

Where does it stand?