how to read see's candy expiration date

3 min read 28-01-2025

See's Candies, known for its delicious chocolates and other confections, doesn't explicitly state an expiration date on its products in the way many other food items do. Instead, they rely on a "best by" or "best before" date, often subtly printed on the packaging. This can be a little confusing, so let's break down how to find and interpret this crucial information.

Where to Find the See's Candy Best By Date

The See's "best by" date isn't always prominently displayed. You won't find a large, bold expiration date like you might on a carton of milk. Instead, look for these locations:

Bottom of the box: Often, the date is printed discreetly on the bottom of the candy box itself. Check carefully, as the printing can be small and faint.
Inside the box: Sometimes, the date is printed on an insert or packaging material *inside* the box. Be sure to thoroughly examine the contents.
On the wrapper (for individual pieces): If the candy is individually wrapped, the "best by" date might be on the wrapper itself. Again, the print may be small.
Contact See's directly: If you can't locate the date anywhere on the packaging, you can always contact See's Candies customer service. They should be able to assist you.

Close-up image of a See's Candy box showing where the best by date might be located

Understanding the "Best By" Date

The "best by" or "best before" date on See's Candies indicates when the product is expected to be at its peak quality. After this date, the candy might start to lose some of its flavor or texture, but it's not necessarily unsafe to eat. However, quality may diminish. This is different from an "expiration date," which signifies the point when a product is no longer safe for consumption.

How to Tell if See's Candy Has Gone Bad

Even if you can't find the "best by" date, there are a few things to look for to determine if your See's candy has spoiled:

Unusual odor: If the candy smells rancid, sour, or otherwise off, it's best to discard it. This is a clear sign of spoilage.
Changes in texture: Does the chocolate appear unusually soft, sticky, or hard? These changes may signal spoilage.
Mold or discoloration: The presence of mold or significant discoloration is a definite indication that the candy has gone bad.
Taste test (with caution): Take a small bite. If it tastes off, throw the rest away.

Proper See's Candy Storage

Proper storage significantly impacts the shelf life of your See's candy. Follow these tips to maintain its quality for as long as possible:

Cool, dark, and dry place: Keep your candy away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
Airtight container: Store opened boxes in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air and maintain freshness.
Refrigeration (optional): While not necessary, refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of some See's chocolates. However, be aware that refrigeration can sometimes alter the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does See's candy last?

The shelf life of See's candy depends on the type of candy and storage conditions. Generally, it's best consumed before the "best by" date, but unopened, properly stored candy can often remain palatable for several weeks or even months beyond that date.

What happens if I eat See's candy past the best by date?

Eating See's candy past its "best by" date is unlikely to make you sick, but it might not taste as fresh or delicious. The texture and flavor may be compromised.

Can I freeze See's candy?

Freezing See's candy isn't generally recommended, as it may alter the texture and flavor. It's best to store it in a cool, dry place.

By following these tips, you can easily locate the "best by" date on your See's candies and determine their freshness. Remember, while the date is a guideline, your senses are the ultimate judge of quality. If something seems off, it's always best to err on the side of caution.