What is important to check on food packages before purchase?

Checking expiration and use-by dates on food packages before purchase is crucial because these dates indicate the safety and quality of the product. Consuming food past these dates can lead to foodborne illnesses or an unpleasant eating experience due to spoilage. Expiration dates signify when the food is no longer considered safe to eat, while use-by dates indicate the last day the product is expected to be at peak quality. Ensuring that products are within these dates helps guarantee that they are safe to consume and of adequate quality, which is essential for maintaining food safety standards in any food service operation.