Changing Dates . It's not legal to alter, change or cover up a date on a product packaged under federal inspection. However, if a product has an expired date and the food remains wholesome , the product may continue to be offered for sale but the expired date must remain visible to the consumer. You should buy the product before the date expires to have sufficient time to use it at best quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.
Foods can develop an off odor, flavor or appearance due to spoilage bacteria.
If so, you won't want to use it for quality reasons. If mishandled, however, some foods may become unsafe because bacteria that cause foodborne illness can grow before or after the expiration date. Make sure to follow carefully the handling and preparation instructions on the label to ensure top quality and safety. Home economists are available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time. Callers with touch-tone phones can listen to their choices of recorded messages 24 hours a day.