The Impact of the Food Date Labeling Act for Food Manufacturers

Tune in to hear from Ryan Richard, VP of community engagement at GS1 US, on the bill to standardize language used on food date labels and improve consumer understanding. By establishing an easily understood food date labeling system, the Food Date Labeling Act offers a practical solution to reducing food waste and supporting sustainable practices—because an estimated 40% of food produced in the U.S. is wasted and domestic food production results in 11% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

Under the bill, food manufacturers can decide which of their products carry a quality date (“BEST If Used By”) or a discard date (“USE By”). The Food Date Labeling Act also allows food to be sold or donated after its labeled quality date, helping more food reach those who need it.

By modernizing labeling processes, food manufacturers will be more equipped to adapt to changes in labeling regulations.