Too Good To Go Blog

WORRIED YOUR COOKIES HAVE GONE CRUMBLY? HOW TO ENJOY COOKIES PAST THEIR BEST IF USED BY

BEST IF USED BY DATES: WHAT DO THEY REALLY MEAN?

When you see a Best if Used By date (or similar terms, as manufacturers use different labels) on your cookies, it might make you think it's no longer safe to eat after that date. However, that is not the case since Best if Used By dates are about food quality, not safety. These dates indicate how long the product will be at its peak flavor and texture.

CAN YOU STILL ENJOY COOKIES PAST THEIR BEST IF USED BY DATE?

Yes, you can! Cookies can often be enjoyed well past their Best Before date, especially if they’re stored in an airtight container. Their crunchy texture may soften over time, but they’re still safe to eat.

TRUST YOUR SENSES: LOOK, SMELL, AND TASTE BEFORE YOU WASTE

To determine if your cookies are still good, trust your senses. Look at them for any mould or unusual discoloration. Smell them. Fresh cookies should have their characteristic sweet or savory scent. If they smell off, it’s best to discard them. Finally, taste one. If you still like the taste, they’re fine to enjoy!

REDUCE FOOD WASTE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Understanding Best if Used By dates can help avoid unnecessary wastage. 20% of consumer food waste in the US results from misunderstanding date labels, (FDA, 2024). Since Best if Used By dates are just freshness indicators, we encourage you to trust your senses before throwing away perfectly good food. By reducing food waste, you not only save money by making the most of what you buy but also help avoid CO2e emissions and the unnecessary use of valuable resources like water and land. Every small action counts in our collective efforts to help save the planet.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR COOKIES

If your cookies are no longer crispy, pop them in the oven to refresh them, or crush them to use in dessert recipes. Discover more food-saving hacks, recipes, and tips on our Instagram.