If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen wondering whether a“Sell By” or “Best Before” date meant “use it tonight” or “toss it”, you’re not alone. Date labels have caused confusion for years, leading to unnecessary food waste and frustrated shoppers, and that’s exactly what California’s new law, AB660, aims to fix.
Starting July 1, 2026, California will require clearer, more consistent food date labeling. At Catania Oils, we believe transparency matters, so here’s what this change means and what you can expect from us.
Until now, food packages used dozens of different datephrases. Many of them sounded like expiration dates, even when they weren’t. Asa result, perfectly good food was often thrown away simply because the label was misunderstood.
AB 660 creates a simple, statewide standard so consumers and businesses see the same clear language on food products. The goal is to reduce confusion, cut down on food waste, and help everyone make better decisions. And, as with many California regulations, the change will ripple out into other states as manufacturers like us implement required changes universally, rather than processing or labeling just goods going to California differently.
Under AB 660, only two date phrases are allowed on food packaging: “Best if used by” and “use by.” Effective March 1, 2026, all Catania products will use the standardized date callout “Best if Used By.” Here’s what you need to know about “Best if Used By”:
You’ll also notice what’s missing. Phrases like “Sell By,”“Expires On,” and “Best Before” will no longer appear on consumer-facing labels. We are putting these changes into effect across our line of products for simplicity and clarity.
AB 660 applies to food products manufactured on or after July 1, 2026. At Catania Oils, we have been preparing well in advance. This change will go into effect for products produced on or after March 1, 2026.
For retailers, this change brings welcome consistency.Shoppers will see a familiar, easy-to-understand phrase across categories,which helps reduce questions at the shelf and builds confidence in purchasing decisions.
For private label partners, the update is about language,not product changes. Your oils remain the same trusted quality. The label simply communicates freshness more clearly and aligns with California requirements.
Across both channels, the “Best if Used By” date helps reinforce an important message: Quality matters, but food does not need to be wasted unnecessarily.
While the wording on the label is evolving, our commitment is not.
This law simply gives us a better way to communicate what we already stand for. Clear information, honest guidance, and products you can trust.
We’ll continue to keep you informed, support your teams through the transition, and answer questions along the way. Because when it comes to your business, clarity and trust should always come standard. If you’d like help updating packaging, training teams, or communicating these changes to your customers, we’re here.
Anne Whitney is Senior Marketing Operations Strategist for Catania Oils, the Northeast’s leading processor and packager of plant-based oils.
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