: a date printed on food packages showing the last day on which the food can be sold
—sometimes used figuratively
a theory that has passed its sell-by date [=an outdated theory]
Examples of sell-by date in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Sold in 16-ounce plastic clamshell containers for $5.99 with sell-by dates 11/3/2025-11/4/2025 and UPC 639123940636.
—
Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
The recall specifically affects half-gallon containers with the UPC code 41415 03043 and a sell-by date of June 19, 2026.
—Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
The affected product was packaged in clear plastic clamshell containers with the Kirkland Signature brand label with a pack date of Sept. 18, 2025, and a sell-by date of Sept. 22, 2025.
—Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 22 Sep. 2025
However, refrigerated eggs can still be safe to eat for three to five weeks after the sell-by date, as long as they aren't spoiled.
—Merve Ceylan, Health, 2 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sell-by date
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Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
The recall specifically affects half-gallon containers with the UPC code 41415 03043 and a sell-by date of June 19, 2026.
—Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
The affected product was packaged in clear plastic clamshell containers with the Kirkland Signature brand label with a pack date of Sept. 18, 2025, and a sell-by date of Sept. 22, 2025.
—Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 22 Sep. 2025
However, refrigerated eggs can still be safe to eat for three to five weeks after the sell-by date, as long as they aren't spoiled.
—Merve Ceylan, Health, 2 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sell-by date
Cite this Entry
“Sell-by date.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sell-by%20date. Accessed 24 Nov. 2025.
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