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The first and most accessible tool in a consumer’s arsenal is the label. While often overlooked in the rush of a weekly grocery shop, the information printed on the packaging is a critical roadmap. Expiration dates are the absolute baseline; however, one must also look for “sell-by” versus “use-by” dates. A “sell-by” date is a guide for the retailer, while the “use-by” date is a hard deadline for the consumer. Furthermore, looking for certifications—such as organic labels, pasture-raised designations, or specific heritage breed markings—can provide a window into the animal’s life and the processing standards utilized. These labels often signify a shorter supply chain and more rigorous oversight, which generally correlates with a higher nutritional profile and lower risk of contamination.
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