Food Date Labeling Act of 2025
Summary
The Food Date Labeling Act of 2025 aims to standardize the use of quality and discard date phrases on food labels. It establishes definitions for 'quality date phrase' and 'discard date phrase,' providing uniform language to be used on food packaging. The Act seeks to reduce consumer confusion and food waste by clarifying the meaning of date labels.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to more consistent and understandable food labeling practices across the country. It gives the entity responsible for the food label the option of whether to include a quality date or discard date phrase on food packaging and which foods should be so labeled. Standardized phrases like 'BEST If Used By' and 'USE By' will replace a variety of existing labels, potentially reducing consumer confusion.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced food waste due to clearer understanding of date labels.
- Increased consumer confidence in food safety and quality.
- Standardized labeling practices nationwide.
- Potential for innovation in labeling technology (QR codes, smart labels).
- Consumer education and outreach programs on date labeling.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs for food manufacturers to update labeling practices.
- Possible confusion during the transition period as consumers adjust to the new labels.
- The Act does not mandate date labeling, only standardizes it if used, potentially limiting its impact.
- State laws prohibiting sale or donation of food after the discard date are not preempted, which could lead to continued food waste.
- The Act does not apply to infant formula.
Constitutional Alignment
The Food Date Labeling Act of 2025 appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, as it regulates interstate commerce by standardizing food labeling practices across state lines. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments. The Act does not compel speech, but rather regulates commercial speech to prevent confusion and deception.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).