How does an expiration date work?

Question

Honestly, Ive never really understood expiration dates. Does the day indicate that it is the LAST day to use it? or that on that certain day, you can no longer use whatever it is?

Answer 1

Determine how much you love the specific food item.  Compare that to how much you love your health.  

Gamble accordingly.

Answer 2

i think that you can consume the product a few days after the date on the label says. i give exceptions to milk, sour cream, cream cheese, and meat though.  you can never be too careful with that food.