Understanding Expiry Dates

Learn how Freshmate helps you track and manage expiration dates effectively.

Types of Dates

Use-By Date

• Indicates when food is unsafe to eat
• Common on meat, dairy, ready meals
• Never eat after this date

Best-Before Date

• Indicates peak quality, not safety
• Food may still be safe to eat after
• Use your judgment (smell, appearance)

Display Until / Sell-By

• For retailers, not consumers
• Food is usually safe for days after

How Freshmate Helps

Color-Coded Alerts

• Green: 7+ days until expiry (fresh)
• Yellow: 3-7 days until expiry (use soon)
• Red: <3 days or expired (urgent)

Smart Notifications

Receive alerts before items expire:

• 7 days before (plan meals)
• 3 days before (prioritize use)
• 1 day before (urgent reminder)
• On expiry day

FIFO System

First In, First Out principle:

• Older items appear first in lists
• Helps you use items in order
• Reduces waste

Setting Expiry Dates

For Pre-Packaged Items

• Use the date on the package
• Account for opening dates (e.g., milk once opened)

For Fresh Produce

Typical shelf lives:

• Leafy greens: 3-7 days
• Root vegetables: 1-2 weeks
• Berries: 3-5 days
• Citrus fruits: 1-2 weeks
• Apples: 2-4 weeks

For Leftovers

• Cooked meat: 3-4 days
• Cooked vegetables: 3-5 days
• Soups/stews: 3-4 days
• Rice/pasta: 3-5 days

Tips for Extending Shelf Life

1. Store Properly: Follow storage instructions
2. Freeze Before Expiry: Extends life by months
3. Divide Portions: Freeze in meal-sized portions
4. Use Airtight Containers: Prevents spoilage
5. Check Temperature: Keep fridge at 4°C or below

When in Doubt

If food looks, smells, or tastes off, don't risk it. Use the waste tracking feature to log it and learn from patterns.