Daily News: US Government Taking Steps to Mend Faulty Food Date Labels Following California’s Lead

The US government is seeking input from the public and food industry on date labeling practices in an effort to reduce food waste. Consumers often misunderstand date labels as indicators of food safety, leading to unnecessary disposal of food. While California has passed a law banning certain date labels to reduce waste and emissions, national standards are lacking. The Biden administration is targeting food waste due to its environmental impact, with nearly 60% of methane emissions coming from decomposing food in landfills. Efforts to reduce food waste have bipartisan support, with the Trump administration launching initiatives aimed at improving coordination and communication on the issue. Experts believe that regardless of political affiliation, cutting food waste is important for both environmental and economic reasons. Consumers can save money by reducing food waste, as the average US household spends about $1,500 to $2,000 a year on uneaten food. Overall, seeking clarity on date labels could help consumers stretch their food budgets further during times of high food prices.

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