Food waste remains a serious problem in Portugal, with thousands of tons of food lying out every year. A significant part of this waste results from the misinterpretation of the validity dates indicated on the labels. Many consumers confuse the different expressions present in the packaging, which leads them to discard products that are still in good condition.
Not always what seems to be out of time is actually inappropriate for consumption. A recent initiative tries to sensitize the Portuguese for this, promoting the use of the senses before bedtime.
Study reveals common behavior among consumers
According to a study by the company Too Good To Goalmost 40% of the Portuguese admit to lying out food in good condition just because they have already exceeded the date indicated in the packaging.
Seal invites to look, smell and prove
According to, it is called “observe, smell, prove” the new seal that is already visible in hundreds of products of more than 40 brands. This symbol aims to remember that the senses should be the first resource to assess whether a food is still good.
Difference between two types of date is not always clear
Many consumers still cannot distinguish the different indications that appear in the packaging. There are two common expressions: “consume even” and “consume preferably before”, and confusion between them contributes significantly to waste.
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Food security depends on the type of product
While “consuming even” applies to products that may be at risk for health after the indicated date, such as fresh meat or fish, the other expression refers only to the quality of the food, not its safety.
Lack of knowledge aggravates the problem
The lack of information on this theme has practical consequences. About 38% of those in respondents in the study of Too Good To Go admitted not knowing how to distinguish these two expressions.
To help reduce the problem, the campaign focuses on sensitization through labels. The seal “Observe, smelling, proving” wants to encourage consumers to trust their own senses.
Dry and preserves products among the main examples
Products such as pasta, rice, canned, yogurts or cheese are some of the examples of foods that can continue to be consumed after the expiration date, provided they are well maintained and do not show signs of degradation.
European statistics confirm impact of confusion
Data from the European Commission reveal that about 10% of food waste in the European space is related to the misinterpretation of the expiration terms.
Portugal wasted more than imagine
In the national territory, it is estimated that each person wasted, on average, 184 pounds of food per year. This is a significant value, with economic and environmental impact.
The campaign is being promoted in several countries in Europe, and Portugal is part of the markets where the message has been well accepted.
Prosecutors of the initiative believe that with small gestures and more information, it is possible to change behaviors and reduce the amount of food discarded without need.
Meanings are allied against waste
A Too Good To Go It appeals to everyone’s responsibility, stressing that “observing, smelling and proving” are simple gestures that make a difference in the fight against food waste.
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