Bill > HB410

This bill, effective October 1, 2026, mandates changes to how food and milk products are labeled with dates, aiming to clarify their meaning for consumers. Starting July 1, 2027, manufacturers, processors, and retailers will be required to use specific phrases for date labels on food items, such as "Best if Used By" for quality dates (when food quality might decline but it's still safe) and "Use By" for safety dates (when food should be consumed or frozen by). The bill also prohibits the use of the phrase "Sell By" on food manufactured on or after this date, as this term primarily indicates stock rotation for distributors and retailers, not consumer safety or quality. For Grade A milk products, similar labeling requirements will apply, with "Best if Used By" for quality and "Use By" for safety, and the prohibition of "Sell By" dates on retail products. The Maryland Department of Health is tasked with creating a marketing program and educational materials by July 1, 2027, to inform consumers about the significance of these quality and safety dates, which will be posted on the Department's website. Certain items like infant formula, beer, and malt beverages are exempt from these new food labeling rules, and specific provisions are made for donating food items and for milk products processed and sold directly to consumers by distributors.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0410?ys=2026RS