Pass the Food Date Labelling Act

Environmental Advocates NY is urging the New York State Legislature to pass the Food Date Labeling Act (A.7291A/S.7618A) to establish a clear, standardized, and science-driven food date labeling system in New York. Currently, there is little to no federal regulation governing most food date labels (with exceptions for shellfish and baby formula). As a result, consumers are left to navigate confusing phrases like "Sell By," "Best By," and "Expires On." This inconsistency leads many New Yorkers to discard perfectly safe, wholesome food because they are unsure whether it is still safe to eat. If passed, the Food Date Labeling Act would allow families across the state to save roughly $3,000 annually from food that would have otherwise been wasted, according to the EPA. At a time when households are grappling with rising grocery prices and an ongoing cost-of-living crisis, reducing preventable food waste is a practical way to ease financial strain.