The États généraux du gaspillage alimentaire, an initiative launched to tackle food waste, is advocating for changes to European regulations that would eliminate expiration dates for certain long-lasting products, such as pasta and rice. This proposal, put forward by French deputy Guillaume Garot, emphasizes the need to revise the legislation to extend the list of products exempted from 'best before' dates, arguing that these dry goods have a significantly longer shelf life.

During a recent presentation, Garot highlighted that products like pasta, rice, and cereals can remain safe for consumption well beyond their indicated durability dates. He insists that by removing these expiration dates, consumers would be encouraged to waste less food, thus addressing the larger issue of food waste across Europe. The initiative aims to reach out to the European Commission to push for regulatory changes that support this goal.

This proposal reflects a growing movement in France and beyond to rethink food labeling practices in light of sustainability and environmental impact. The potential abolition of expiration dates on staple foods not only could help reduce the tremendous amount of food wasted each year but also may shift consumer perceptions regarding food safety and utilization of products that are still viable for consumption beyond the stated dates. It could contribute to a more sustainable food system if implemented effectively.