Bill > SB2072

This bill amends the Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to improve food product labeling by requiring the Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Department of Public Health, to adopt rules mandating that food labels include both a "quality date" and a "safety date" by July 1, 2027. A quality date indicates when food quality might start to deteriorate but the food may still be safe to eat, while a safety date indicates when perishable food should be consumed or frozen to ensure safety. The bill specifies that labels should use specific terminology: "BEST if Used by" for quality dates and "USE by" for safety dates. Notably, the bill provides exceptions for eggs, beer, and other malt beverages, and any limitations imposed by federal law. Violations of these new labeling rules will result in a civil penalty of $100 per violation. The overall goal is to provide consumers with clearer, more consistent information about food product freshness and safety, helping them make more informed decisions about food consumption.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2072&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104