MD HB410

Beginning July 1, 2028, food manufacturers, processors, and retailers must use standardized date labels: "Best if Used By" (or "BB") for quality dates indicating when food quality may begin to deteriorate, and "Use By" (or "UB") for safety dates indicating when perishable food should be consumed or frozen

The sale of food items labeled with "Sell By" dates is prohibited starting July 1, 2028, though coded sell-by dates not easily readable by consumers are permitted for stock rotation purposes

Exemptions apply to infant formula, beer and malt beverages, and dietary supplements; the law does not prohibit selling or donating food after quality dates have passed

Food retailers may continue selling non-compliant items purchased before June 30, 2028, and may donate food items not labeled in accordance with the new requirements

The Maryland Department of Health must create educational materials by July 1, 2028, in partnership with University of Maryland Extension and food donation organizations, to inform consumers about the meaning of quality and safety dates