NY S07618

Requires food manufacturers, processors, and retailers to use standardized date labels starting July 1, 2027: "USE by" for safety dates and "BEST if Used by" for quality dates, with abbreviated versions "UB" and "BB" permitted for small items

Prohibits the sale of food items manufactured after July 1, 2027 that display consumer-facing "sell by" labels, though coded "sell by" dates not easily readable by consumers remain permitted

Mandates that shelf life estimates be determined using scientifically valid methods considering product formulation, packaging, storage conditions, and home refrigerator temperatures of 45 degrees Fahrenheit

Requires the Department of Agriculture and Markets to update its website, conduct outreach to retailers, food banks, and the general public, and mandate in-store signage explaining the meaning of safety and quality dates

Exempts infant formula, alcoholic beverages, and shellfish subject to national sanitation programs, and explicitly permits the sale and donation of food past its quality date