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New Food Labeling Rules: Quality and Discard Dates

This act establishes uniform rules for food date labels, helping consumers understand when food is best to eat and when it should be discarded. The goal is to reduce food waste and improve safety. Food producers can choose whether to include these dates, but if they do, they must use specific, standardized phrases.
Key points
Introduces two types of food dates: a quality date ("BEST If Used By") and a discard date ("USE By").
These dates are optional for food producers, but if used, they must follow a uniform format, making them easier for consumers to understand.
The act aims to educate consumers on the meaning of these dates to help them make informed decisions about food consumption.
It prevents states from setting different date labeling requirements, ensuring consistency nationwide.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_3324
Sponsor: Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT]
Process start date: 2021-12-07
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Food Date Labeling Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_3324.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-12-07.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Introduces two types of food dates: a quality date ("BEST If Used By") and a discard date ("USE By").
  • These dates are optional for food producers, but if used, they must follow a uniform format, making them easier for consumers to understand.
  • The act aims to educate consumers on the meaning of these dates to help them make informed decisions about food consumption.
  • It prevents states from setting different date labeling requirements, ensuring consistency nationwide.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Agriculture Health