What does a best before date indicate?

The best before date indicates the period during which a food product is expected to maintain its optimal quality in terms of flavor, texture, and nutritional value. After this date, the food may start to deteriorate in quality, but it does not necessarily mean that it is unsafe to eat. Best before dates are typically found on products that have a longer shelf life, such as dried goods, canned items, and frozen foods. These dates serve as a guideline for consumers to ensure they enjoy the food at its peak freshness and flavor. While the quality may decline post this date, the product can still be safe to consume depending on the type of food and how it has been stored.