SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to alleviate confusion surrounding food labels, a new Illinois law slated to take effect on July 1 aims to provide clear definitions for “quality date,” “safety date,” and “sell by date.” The legislation mandates the Illinois Department of Agriculture to publish specific meanings for these terms, encouraging food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to voluntarily adopt these precise labels.
State Senator Rachel Ventura, D-Joliet, who sponsored the bill, referred to it as the “sniff test” legislation during Senate discussions. She highlighted the common practice of individuals relying on their senses to determine food freshness, often questioning the accuracy of date labels.
Under the upcoming law, “quality date” signifies the recommended period for optimal taste, acknowledging that the food remains safe for consumption beyond this date, though its flavor may diminish. Conversely, a “safety” or “use by date” indicates the last safe consumption moment, after which the item must be discarded. The “sell by date” primarily serves manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, guiding them on when to remove specific items from store shelves without directly impacting product safety.
During legislative debates in 2023, some opponents expressed concerns about state involvement in an area they felt fell under federal jurisdiction. State Senator Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills, emphasized the interstate nature of the food industry, asserting that varying state standards could burden businesses and confuse consumers.
Senator Ventura defended the law, noting its alignment with similar legislation in California and Massachusetts. She expressed hope that more states would adopt comparable regulations, ultimately prompting federal requirements for standardized food labeling.
It’s important to note that the law does not mandate the use of these labels by food manufacturers, distributors, or retailers. Ventura acknowledged the enforcement challenges, particularly since most food products are manufactured outside of Illinois, suggesting that nationwide labeling standards would likely require federal intervention.