Is there some secret way to decipher "expiration codes" on boxes, bottles etc..?

Its so frusturating that things don't have use by dates

Even sell by dates are kind of annoying, but the codes are just ridiculous ! I find myself always throwing things out " just in case "...Is there some secret way to de-code these labels, short of calling up the company ??

Re: Is there some secret way to decipher "expiration codes" on boxes, bottles etc..?

For milk in NYC you can use it usually 5 days after the sell by date. In LI it is only 3 days after the sell by date. In NJ it is only 2 days after the sell by date.

Yogurt use by the date listed on the top of the label.

Grains/cereals use before the date listed on the top of the package. To make them last longer put them in a zip lock or a container.