California has taken a significant step towards addressing food waste and consumer confusion by enacting a groundbreaking law to standardize food labeling. This legislation, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, aims to eliminate misleading terms like "sell by" and "best before" on food packaging.
The new law, set to take effect in July 2026, mandates the use of two specific labels:
1. "Best if Used By" to indicate peak quality
2. "Use By" to signify product safety
This initiative comes in response to the longstanding issue of food label ambiguity. Currently, there are over 50 different date labels on packaged foods sold in stores, leading to widespread consumer confusion. The Food and Drug Administration estimates that this confusion contributes to nearly 20% of the nation's food waste.
In California alone, approximately 6 million tons of unexpired food are discarded annually. This waste not only impacts consumers' wallets but also contributes significantly to climate-warming emissions. Food waste is responsible for about 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the environmental importance of this legislation.
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, the bill's author, stated, "Having to wonder whether our food is still good is an issue that we all have struggled with." She emphasized that this law is "a monumental step to keep money in the pockets of consumers while helping the environment and the planet."
It's worth noting that the United States currently has no federal regulation for date labeling, except for infant formula. This lack of standardization has led to a patchwork of practices across the country. The average American family throws out approximately $1,500 worth of food annually, often due to misunderstanding these labels.
The new California law provides exemptions for certain products, including eggs, beer, and other malt beverages. This approach aligns with recommendations from federal agencies and builds upon previous efforts in the state. In 2017, then-Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill establishing a voluntary uniform-labeling protocol, but few companies adopted the system.
Erica Parker of Californians Against Waste, who sponsored the bill, explained, "Widespread implementation that was basically committed to by industry wasn't happening. Food waste rates are not decreasing, they're increasing."
Supporters of the legislation hope it will serve as a model for other states or even push action at the federal level. Nina Sevilla from the Natural Resources Defense Council noted, "California has such a large market share that we do think this will push manufacturers."
This law comes at a crucial time, as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals aim to halve global food waste by 2030. With approximately 1.3 billion tons of food wasted globally each year, initiatives like California's could play a vital role in addressing this issue.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the importance of efficient food supply chains and waste management. As consumers become more aware of food waste's impact on both their finances and the environment, this legislation could spark a broader shift in attitudes and behaviors.
By implementing clear and standardized labeling, California is taking a significant step towards reducing food waste, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and helping consumers make more informed decisions about the food they purchase and consume.
"Having to wonder whether our food is still good is an issue that we all have struggled with."
As this law takes effect and potentially influences national standards, it may pave the way for more sustainable food consumption practices across the United States and beyond.