Myth: The “sell by” date on the egg carton in my refrigerator is the same date as on the calendar so now I have to throw them away.

Answer: Busted!

“Sell by” is simply a voluntary date many food manufacturers use to let grocers known when to pull a product. It has to do with taste, however, not quality. Most products are good for at least a week after the “sell by” date. However, their nutritional value decreases, and that – not safety – is the real issue!

Additional information is available Missouri Families.

Contributor: Maude Harris, EdD, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, University of Missouri Extention, harrismau@missouri.edu