What does the "refrigerate or freeze by "date mean?

Answer by  jamieellison (1637)

This means that the manufacturer has determined that bacterial growth may become too high if the product is not refrigerated or frozen by the date listed. High bacterial growth can lead to food spoilage and even food poisoning if the item is consumed. It is wise to follow these dates.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

That means in order for the product to stay fresh, it should be used by that date. Either in the Refrigerator or Freezer. Freezing does not make the item stay fresh longer.

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

It means if you freeze the food by that date it will last longer than the date on the package. If you were to leave it in the fridge the food would probably spoil. Freezing the food extends it's shelf life and you are able to use it at a later date instead of right away.

Answer by  Vllad45 (1886)

You must refrigerate the item upon buying and eat it soon, or you must freeze it by the date so that it will stay fresh and safe to eat. The date part goes with freeze.