Objective:
Key Provisions:
The act seeks to reduce consumer confusion about food freshness and safety, thereby minimizing unnecessary food waste.
Date Labeling Phrases:
Quality Dates: Use “best if used by” to indicate when a product may start to deteriorate in quality, though it may still be safe to consume.
Safety Dates: Use “expires on” for products where consumption after this date may pose a health risk, particularly for ready-to-eat items.
Implementation Timeline:
Effective Date: The act applies to food products labeled on or after two years from the enactment date.
Regulatory Oversight:
Commissioner of Public Health:
Criteria Establishment: Responsible for setting criteria to identify high-risk ready-to-eat products.
Exemptions and Listings: Can exempt certain products or list additional high-risk items based on consumption safety.
Education: Must educate consumers on the meaning of the new labels within one year of the act’s enactment.
Labeling Requirements:
Format: Dates and phrases must be clear, easy to read, and prominently displayed on packaging.
Sales and Use:
Quality Dates: Products can still be sold, donated, or used after the quality date has passed.
Safety Dates: Restrictions may be imposed on sales or use after the safety date has passed.
Legislative Details:
Presented by: Hannah Kane and others.
Bill Number: House No. 2205
Region: United States
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