What indicates the date after which a food product is no longer guaranteed safe to eat?

The use-by date is an important indicator specifying the last date on which a food product is guaranteed to be safe for consumption. This date is typically found on perishable items such as dairy products, fresh meats, and prepared meals. Consuming food after this date can pose health risks because the safety and quality of the food cannot be assured.

Best before dates generally indicate the timeframe during which the product will maintain its best flavor and quality but may still be safe to consume beyond that date. Expiration dates are sometimes used interchangeably with use-by dates but can refer to broader categories of products and do not always imply safety concerns. Sell by dates guide retailers on how long to keep items on the shelf but do not indicate safety for the consumer.

In contrast, the term "use-by date" is explicitly designed to inform consumers about food safety, which is why it is the correct choice in this context.