Bill > HB8

This bill establishes standardized food and milk product date labeling requirements in Maryland, effective July 1, 2026. The legislation defines three types of date labels: "quality date" (indicating when food quality may start to decline), "safety date" (indicating when perishable food should be consumed or frozen), and explicitly prohibits using "sell by" dates. Food manufacturers and retailers must use specific standardized phrases like "Best If Used By" for quality dates and "Use By" for safety dates, with abbreviated versions allowed for small product packaging. The bill requires these date labels to be clear and easily understood by consumers, and allows food items to be donated or sold after their quality date. Milk products must also be labeled with a date established by the milk processor to ensure consumer quality. The Maryland Department of Health is tasked with creating an educational program to inform consumers about these new date labeling standards and will develop regulations to implement the law. The bill does not apply to certain products like infant formula, eggs, and beer. The new requirements aim to reduce consumer confusion about food expiration dates and potentially decrease food waste by providing clearer guidance on food quality and safety.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0008?ys=2025RS