Starting in 2026, California will mandate standardized "best if used by" language on food packaging to reduce consumer confusion and curb preventable food waste. Under Assembly Bill 660, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024, manufacturers must use specific terminology to distinguish between food quality and food safety.
How the New Law Standardizes Labels
Currently, the food industry uses a patchwork of inconsistent labels, including "sell by," "use by," "expires on," and "best before." According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, this lack of uniformity leads many consumers to discard perfectly edible food under the mistaken belief that the product has become unsafe.
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law requires food manufacturers and retailers to use the following two-tier system:
- "Best if used by": This indicates the date when a product reaches its peak quality or flavor, as determined by the manufacturer. It is not a safety date.
- "Use by": This phrase is reserved for products where food safety may be a concern after the specified date.
Why California Is Targeting Food Waste
The state legislature passed this bill to address the significant volume of food discarded by households. Estimates from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) suggest that up to 40% of food produced in the United States goes uneaten, with consumer confusion regarding date labels serving as a primary driver for household waste.
By clarifying that "best if used by" refers to quality rather than safety, officials aim to align state standards with recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA has long noted that except for infant formula, date labels are generally voluntary and intended to guide consumers on quality.
Impact on Manufacturers and Retailers
The mandate applies to all food items sold in California, though it excludes certain products regulated by federal law, such as specific meat and poultry items where federal labeling requirements already prevail.
Industry groups have noted the operational shift required to update packaging designs. However, the law provides a transition period, allowing manufacturers until mid-2026 to bring their supply chains into compliance. Retailers are prohibited from selling food that bears labels inconsistent with the new state-mandated phrases after the implementation date.
Comparison: California vs. Federal Guidelines
While the federal government provides guidance on food dating, it has not enacted a mandatory, nationwide standard for all food products. California’s law effectively codifies these voluntary federal guidelines into state statute.
| Feature | Current Federal Guidance | California AB 660 (Effective 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Labeling | Voluntary (except infant formula) | Mandatory for most food products |
| Terminology | Varies by manufacturer | Standardized to two specific phrases |
| Enforcement | Non-binding | Statutorily required for retail sale |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this law apply to all food products?
Most packaged foods are covered, but the law includes specific exemptions for products where federal law already dictates labeling, such as certain federally inspected meat and poultry products.
Can I still eat food after the "Best if used by" date?
Yes. According to the FDA, products remain safe to consume after the "best if used by" date provided they have been stored correctly and show no signs of spoilage, such as off-odors, mold, or unusual texture.
What happens if a product has an old label after 2026?
Retailers in California will be prohibited from selling items that do not comply with the new labeling standard. Producers are expected to update their packaging to meet the July 2026 deadline.
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