The FDA doesn't mandate expiration dates except for infant formula. Everything else is manufacturer speculation. A yogurt marked "Best By June 15" is likely fine through late June, possibly into early July. But this variance isn't explained on the label, which is why so much edible food reaches the trash. What Actually Matters Dairy products deteriorate relatively predictably—hard cheeses last 3-4 weeks past the date, soft cheeses 1-2 weeks, yogurt 1 week, milk 5-7 days (trust your nose). Dry goods are nearly indefinite: pasta, rice, and canned goods last years past their dates if stored properly. Frozen items have no meaningful expiration. Eggs, surprisingly, last 3-4 weeks past their carton date if stored correctly in the back of the fridge. If it smells fine, tastes fine, and shows no visible mold, it is fine. Your senses evolved for this. The real waste happens with produce. Leafy greens decline fastest (3-5 days), while potatoes, onions, and squash last weeks. Store herbs stem-down in water like flowers. Keep tomatoes at room temperature. Keep everything else in the crisper drawer, which actually works when you use it intentionally.