What is the importance of date labeling on perishable products?

• A. It only helps with inventory counts, not safety.
• B. Date labeling is optional and can be ignored.
• C. Perishable products should always be sold past date with discount.
• D. Date labeling helps ensure freshness, safety, and reduces waste; remove or mark products past date.

Answer: (D)

Date labeling on perishable products guides both safety and quality. It tells staff and customers when items are still fresh and safe to eat, and it supports proper stock rotation so products are sold before they spoil. That combination reduces waste because items that are past their date are removed or clearly marked to prevent sale. The best choice captures these two essential goals—protecting safety and minimizing waste—along with the practical action of removing or marking past-date items. The other statements miss the safety role, suggest ignoring dates, or advocate unsafe practices, which is why they aren’t correct.