Follow these guidelines from the National Food Processors Association. After that, the product should not be on store shelves. These are usually found on short shelf-life products such as milk, meat and bakery items. It's still safe to eat after the date, but it may have become stale or changed in taste or appearance. You can always call the manufacturer to find out if the food item is still good.
Many food labels have a tollfree number to contact the manufacturer.
But when in doubt, throw it out. We re not the coffee, tea or me girls, a veteran United Airlines flight purser confirms. We re there for passenger safety. But we can also help make your trip healthier. Here are smart tips for passengers from a flight attendant who has logged more air miles than any frequent flyer ever has.