
“Closed Dating” is a code that consists of a series of letters and/or numbers applied by manufacturers to identify the date and time of production. The calendar date provides consumers with information on the estimated period of time for which the product will be of best quality and to help the store determine how long to display the product for sale. "Open Dating" is a calendar date applied to a food product by the manufacturer or retailer. Two types of product dating may be shown on a product label.
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Are dates required on these food products? Does it mean the product will be unsafe to use after that date? Here is some background information answering these and other questions about product dating. "Best if Used By" is a type of date you might find on a meat, poultry, or egg product label.