California has become the first state in the U.S. to pass a law prohibiting the use of the phrase "sell by" on food product labeling. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, the measure aims to reduce food waste caused by confusion from multiple date labels. This legislation, set to take effect on July 1, 2026, is estimated to save over 70,000 tons of waste each year.

 

Expiration dates have been a significant factor in food waste across the country, where millions of tons are unnecessarily discarded due to misunderstandings about product safety and freshness. The lack of standardization in labeling has led consumers to throw away food that is still safe to eat, resulting in negative impacts on both the environment and the economy. According to the nonprofit organization ReFED, confusing labels are responsible for over 3 million tons of food wasted annually in the U.S.

 

The new law will allow manufacturers and retailers to use clearer terms, helping consumers make more informed decisions. However, there are exceptions: infant formulas, eggs, and certain alcoholic beverages will continue to use their own labeling systems.

 

Food waste not only represents an economic loss, with an estimated annual cost of $473 billion, but it also contributes to climate change by emitting methane in landfills. California's law seeks to mitigate these effects by improving resource efficiency and environmental conservation.

 

In addition to the new legislation, the FDA recommends consumers adopt practices such as freezing food, planning meals, and donating unused products to reduce waste.