Open dating is the use of a date stamped on the package of a food product to help determine how long to display the product for sale. This benefits the consumer by ensuring that the product is of best quality when sold. An open date does not supersede a use-by date, if shown, which should still be followed.

Does expiry date apply after opening?

In cases where the shelf life exceeds 30 months an expiration date is not required to be placed on the packing, however a period after opening (PAO) is. Period after opening (PAO) refers to the amount of time a product will remain stable and safe for human use after it has first been opened.

Is validity date same as expiry date?

As nouns the difference between validity and expiry is that validity is the state of being valid, authentic or genuine while expiry is (british) end, termination, expiration.

Are use by dates reliable?

These dates arent required by federal law (though some states require them) and dont necessarily indicate a products safety (with the exception of baby formula). In fact, perishable products are usually safe to consume beyond their “best by” date if theyve been handled and stored properly.