THE FOOD SAFETY Authority of Ireland has expressed fears over the number of people who ignore use-by dates on food – saying it is “alarming” that the date stamps are not given more attention.

A new survey showed that almost half of consumers believe it is OK to eat foods that have passed their use-by dates.

However, the FSAI warned that even if products look, smell and taste fine, they may be contaminated with harmful bacteria.

So today we’re asking: Do you pay attention to use-by dates on food?

Poll Results:

Yes - but a couple of days either way doesn't matter (786)

Yes - I'd never eat something past its use-by date (671)

No - as long as something looks and smells OK, I'll eat it (484)

I don't know (8)

Yes - I'd never eat something past its use-by date
Yes - but a couple of days either way doesn't matter
No - as long as something looks and smells OK, I'll eat it
I don't know

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

Poll: Do you pay attention to use-by dates on food?

Poll Results:

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.