Can You Eat Crisps After the Best-Before Date?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against FSA date labelling guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes. Crisps have a best-before date, which is about quality rather than safety, so them is usually fine to eat after the date. Check that they look and smell normal.
Why it's usually fine past the date
A best-before date is the maker's estimate of how long crisps stays at its best. After it, they go soft and the oil can taste stale; it doesn't suddenly become unsafe. The FSA says food is generally safe to eat after its best-before date, and using your own judgement also cuts food waste. Throw it away if you see: a rancid smell, mould or insects.
You can also check the calorie content of crisps alongside their safety information.
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Crisps: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| Left out overnight | Yes — generally fine |
Common questions
Can I eat crisps after the best-before date?
Usually yes, if they are still crunchy and smell fine. The oil goes stale or rancid over time, which tastes unpleasant but isn't a food poisoning risk.
How can I tell if crisps has gone off?
Look for a rancid smell, mould or insects. If none of those apply and it looks, smells and tastes normal, it is fine.
What actually changes after the best-before date?
They go soft and the oil can taste stale. That's a drop in quality, not a safety problem (FSA).
What is the difference between use-by and best-before?
Use-by is about safety: do not eat after it. Best-before is about quality: the food is often fine after it, just past its best. Check which one is on your label.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA date labelling guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.