California is taking a significant step to reduce food waste and eliminate consumer confusion with a new law that standardizes food labeling. Starting July 1, 2026 food manufacturers and retailers will be required to use only two types of date labels: “BEST if Used by” and “USE by”. This change aims to clarify the difference between food quality and food safety, helping consumers make informed decisions and reducing the vast amount of edible food that ends up in landfills.
The new law, known as Assembly Bill 660 is part of California’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and protect consumers. By streamlining the labeling process, the state hopes to prevent billions of pounds of unspoiled food from being wasted each year. This initiative is not just about reducing waste; it’s also about empowering consumers to make better choices.
Understanding the new labels
The new labeling system introduces two key phrases: “BEST if Used by” and “USE by”. The “BEST if Used by” label indicates the date by which a product will be of best quality. This means that while the food may still be safe to eat after this date, its flavor or texture might not be at its peak. On the other hand, the “USE by” label is a strict safety guideline, indicating the date by which the product should be consumed to avoid any health risks.
This distinction is crucial for consumers. Many people currently confuse quality indicators with safety warnings, leading to the premature disposal of perfectly good food. By clarifying this difference, California hopes to reduce the amount of food waste generated by consumer confusion.
The impact on food manufacturers and retailers
Food manufacturers and retailers will need to make significant changes to comply with the new law. By July 1, 2026 all consumer-facing packaging must adhere to the new labeling requirements. This means updating printing layouts and ensuring that all products shipped into the state meet the new standards. The law also prohibits the use of “sell by” dates directed at consumers, although coded “sell by” dates can still be used for stock rotation purposes.
The transition to the new labeling system will require careful planning and coordination among food brands, processors, and packaging teams. While the legislative text outlines the structural requirements for manufacturers, the exact enforcement mechanisms are still unclear. Local code enforcement and public health agencies will play a crucial role in monitoring compliance and ensuring that retailers adhere to the new guidelines.
Preparing for the transition
California shoppers can prepare for the transition by familiarizing themselves with the two new authorized phrases. When browsing store aisles, remember that an item past its “BEST if Used by” date is still safe to consume and has merely passed its peak flavor profile. Food safety precautions and expiration decisions should be strictly reserved for items carrying the “USE by” designation.
This new labeling system is a significant step forward in the fight against food waste. By providing clear and consistent information, California is empowering consumers to make better choices and reducing the environmental impact of food waste. As the state implements these changes, it will be interesting to see how other regions follow suit and adopt similar measures to promote sustainability and consumer awareness.
