There is no uniform or universally accepted system used for food dating in the United States. Although dating of some foods is required by more than 20 states, there are areas of the country where much of the food supply has some type of open date and other areas where almost no food is dated. You should buy the product before the date expires. It is not a purchase or safety date. The date has been determined by the manufacturer of the product.
Foods can develop an off odor, flavor or appearance due to spoilage bacteria.
If a food has developed such characteristics, you should not use it for quality reasons. For example, if a package of hot dogs is taken to a picnic and left out several hours, the hot dogs wouldn't be safe to use, even if the date hasn't expired. Make sure to follow the handling and preparation instructions on the label to ensure top quality and safety. Product dating is not required by Federal regulations. Cook or freeze within those times.