South Korea to Implement Use-By Dates Instead of Sell-By Dates

The “Use-By Dates” Labeling System, Which Was Introduced In January 2023, Will Be Fully Implemented In January 2024 After A One-year Transition Period

However, products labeled with “sell-by dates” made before the end of the transition period can be distributed and sold until that date, so for the time being, a mixture of products labeled with sell-by dates and products labeled with use-by dates will be sold.

Why Change It?

South Korea has had a “best before dates (sell-by dates)” system since 1985. The sell-by date is set 60-70% ahead of the time when the quality of the food changes, so it can be eaten for a longer period of time depending on the storage conditions. Consumers who do not understand this often throw away the food after the sell-by date. On the other hand, the use-by date is the “final date” when it is recognized that the product will not be harmed if consumed, which reduces food waste and makes it clearer for consumers to understand whether to throw it away.

• Use-by date (소비기한) : The period of time that a food item can be consumed by a consumer. After the food item has traveled through the distribution process and reached the consumer, it is the last time that it is recognized as safe for consumption. It is a consumer-oriented labeling system.

• Sell-by date (유통기한) : The date by which a product, such as food, can remain on the market. Food that is past this date cannot be sold, even if it is not spoiled or deteriorated. It is a merchant-oriented labeling system.

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