How to Read Expiration Date on Formula Can: A Complete Guide for Parents

When it comes to feeding your baby, safety and nutrition are the top priorities. Infant formula is a vital source of nutrition, especially in the critical first year of life. As such, understanding how to correctly read the expiration date on a formula can is more than just a box to check—it’s about ensuring your baby receives the safe, effective nourishment they need.

Unfortunately, expiration dates on formula cans aren’t always obvious. They’re often printed in codes that can be confusing, especially for new parents. In this article, we’ll guide you through exactly how to read those dates, what they mean, how to store formula properly, and what to do if you’re unsure. By the end, you’ll have a clear, practical, and confidence-boosting understanding of infant formula expiration labels.

Why Expiration Dates Matter in Infant Formula

Expiration dates are not just arbitrary numbers; they are the result of rigorous testing and approval by food safety authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA mandates that all infant formulas must carry labeled expiration dates because nutrients degrade over time, and bacterial growth can occur if storage conditions aren’t ideal.

• Nutrient Stability: Key vitamins like vitamin C, D, E, and B complex begin to degrade once the formula passes its expiration date. This reduces its efficacy in supporting your baby’s growth and development.
• Safety Concerns: Expired formula may taste off or contain bacterial contaminants, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal problems or food poisoning in infants whose immune systems are still developing.
• Texture and Composition: Prolonged storage can cause clumping, separation, or changes in consistency, making proper mixing more difficult and potentially dangerous if not reconstituted correctly.

Even a single day past expiration can reduce the quality of a formula, which is why knowing how to read these dates correctly is so important.

Where to Find the Expiration Date on the Formula Can

Locating the expiration date is the first step. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always on the top of the can. Different brands place it in various areas, so parents must know where to look.

Common Locations for the Expiration Date

1. The Bottom of the Can: This is the most common location. Flip the can upside down and look carefully along the rim. The date is typically stamped in small text.
2. The Side of the Can: Some brands, especially organic or store-brand formulas, place the expiration date around the middle or lower portion of the can’s cylindrical surface.
3. The Lid or Top Rim: A few formulas, especially ready-to-feed or concentrated liquids, print the date on the metal lid or the plastic seal around the top.

Always check multiple areas if the date isn’t immediately visible. Tip: hold the can under good lighting or use a flashlight to improve visibility.

What the Expiration Date Indicates

The expiration date—also known as the “use by” date—indicates the final day the manufacturer guarantees the formula’s full potency, safety, and nutritional integrity. It’s not a “sell by” or “best by” date like those on some groceries. For infant formula, the use-by date is a hard deadline set by regulatory standards.

This date assumes the can remains sealed and stored properly in a cool, dry place. Once the seal is broken, the shelf life changes significantly—more on that later.

Understanding the Format: Decoding Formula Date Labels

One of the most challenging aspects of reading expiration dates on formula is deciphering the format. Most manufacturers use a standardized coding system that may not be immediately clear. Let’s break it down.

Typical Date Formats

Most formula cans use one of the following formats:

Format 1: Standard “Use By” Date

Some brands (like Similac or Enfamil) clearly state “Use by” followed by a standard calendar date such as:

Use by: May 15, 2025

This is the easiest to interpret. Always use the formula before this date.

Format 2: Numeric Date (MM/DD/YYYY or DD/MM/YYYY)

Other brands use only numbers, such as:

09/23/2025

Be mindful of the format:

• In the U.S., the convention is usually Month/Day/Year.
• If the day appears greater than 12 (e.g., 15/03/2025), it’s likely Day/Month/Year, possibly indicating an imported product.

Format 3: Julian Date or Batch Code

This is the most confusing type. It’s a combination of numbers and letters that can look like this:

Y3317F 28NOV24

Or simply:

123456A7

The key is identifying the readable date portion. Often, the actual expiration date is embedded within the code, such as “NOV24” meaning November 2024. Other times, you must rely on manufacturer guidance.

Examples of Leading Formula Brands and Their Date Labels

Reading Batch or Julian Codes: A Deep Dive

Many parents are puzzled by complex codes such as “X182 25JUL2025.” These codes serve two purposes: tracking the date and identifying the manufacturing lot. Let’s break them down.

What Is a Julian Date?

A Julian date refers to the day of the year, numbered from 1 to 365 (or 366 in leap years). For example:

• January 1 = 001
• February 1 = 032
• December 31 = 365

If a formula can displays a code like “25365X,” it might mean:
25 = year 2025, 365 = December 31, and X = shift or production batch.

But not all manufacturers use this scheme consistently. The best practice is not to guess—contact the manufacturer if you’re uncertain.

How to Decode Batch Codes

Batch or lot codes are primarily used for product recalls or quality tracking. They often include the expiration date embedded in them, but this requires brand-specific knowledge.

For example:

• Similac: “JAN25” somewhere in the code clearly indicates January 2025.
• Mead Johnson (Enfamil): Codes may begin with a letter that represents the manufacturing plant, followed by a timestamp.

Tip: Visit the manufacturer’s website—many offer online tools where you can input the code to retrieve the expiration date.

What Happens If You Use Expired Formula?

While using expired formula doesn’t always result in immediate harm, it carries significant risks that far outweigh any cost-saving motive.

Potential Health Risks

• Nutrient Deficiency: Over time, essential nutrients deteriorate. Using formula past its prime may mean your baby isn’t getting adequate vitamins or minerals crucial for brain development, immunity, and bone growth.
• Bacterial Contamination: Even sealed cans can develop micro-leaks or compromise over time. Expired powder may support bacterial or fungal growth, especially if stored in humid conditions.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Spoiled formula may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain in infants—a serious concern for babies who can dehydrate quickly.

When Is It Absolutely Unsafe?

You should never feed your baby formula if:

• It is past the printed use-by date.
• The can is dented, bulging, or leaking.
• The powder has clumps, discoloration, or an odd smell.
• It was stored in a hot, humid, or damp environment (e.g., garage or basement).

Never attempt to “smell test” expired formula—infants are more sensitive than adults, and what seems fine to you may not be safe for your baby.

Proper Storage of Infant Formula

Even if the formula is within its expiration window, improper storage can render it unsafe. Here’s how to store it correctly.

Before Opening the Can

• Keep unopened cans in a cool, dry place such as a kitchen cupboard.
• Avoid storing near stoves, ovens, dishwashers, or windows where temperature fluctuates.
• Ideal storage temperature: between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C).
• Do not store in the refrigerator—condensation can introduce moisture, leading to clumping or spoilage.

After Opening the Can

An opened can has a much shorter shelf life, regardless of the original expiration date.

• Use opened formula within one month. The FDA recommends this cutoff because exposure to air and moisture degrades nutrients and increases contamination risk.
• Always tightly seal the lid after each use.
• Do not transfer formula to another container unless it’s specifically designed for formula storage.
• Avoid storing in a humid bathroom or near a sink.

Note: Some organic formulas may recommend using within 2–3 weeks after opening due to fewer preservatives.

Special Cases: Imported or Foreign Formulas

Parents sometimes turn to imported formulas for specialty needs (e.g., hypoallergenic, European organic brands). However, these often come with different labeling standards.

Reading European or International Labels

European formulas frequently use:

• DD/MM/YYYY format—for example, 30/07/2025
• The term “Best Before” instead of “Use By”—but for infant formula, this is equivalent to a use-by date.
• Language differences (e.g., “Verwendbar bis” in German = “Use by”)

Important: Importing infant formula not approved by the FDA may pose legal or safety concerns. Always consult a pediatrician before using non-U.S.-approved products.

Time Zone and Shipping Concerns

Formulas shipped from overseas may be closer to expiration by the time they reach you. Always:

• Check the date immediately upon arrival.
• Consider shipping duration—formula stored in hot trucks or warehouses may degrade faster.

Tips for Staying Organized and Safe

Prevention is the best strategy. Here’s how to keep track of formula dates and avoid mistakes.

Rotate Your Stock Using the FIFO Method

FIFO stands for First In, First Out. When you buy a new can, place it behind older cans so you use the oldest one first. This prevents accidental use of expired products.

Write the Opened Date on the Can

Use a permanent marker to write the date you first opened the formula on top of the can. For example: “Opened: Mar 10, 2024.” This makes it easy to know when to discard it.

Use a Formula Tracker App or Calendar

Several parenting apps allow you to input purchase and expiration dates. They’ll send reminders when formula is nearing expiration.

Donate Unexpired Formula to Food Banks

If you have formula that your baby no longer needs (e.g., due to switching types) but is still well within the use-by date, consider donating it to a local food bank or diaper drive. Never donate expired formula.

What to Do If You Can’t Read the Expiration Date

Sometimes, the date is faint, smudged, or scratched off. Here’s how to handle it:

• Inspect Under Bright Light: Use a flashlight or hold under direct sunlight.
• Contact Customer Support: Brands like Similac and Enfamil have 24/7 parent support lines. Provide the batch number and they’ll tell you the expiration date.
• Check the Receipt: If you purchased the formula recently, check your purchase date. Most unopened cans last about 18–24 months, so you can estimate.
• When in Doubt, Discard It: If you can’t confirm the date, err on the side of caution. Your baby’s health is not worth the risk.

Alternative Feeding Options and When to Consult a Pediatrician

If you run out of formula or are unsure about your supply, don’t panic—but act wisely.

When to Call the Doctor

• If your baby has special dietary needs (e.g., allergies, metabolic disorders).
• If you’re considering switching brands temporarily.
• If you’re relying on homemade or diluted formula—Never attempt this without medical guidance.

Breast Milk as an Option

If you’re able, breastfeeding (or previously pumped and stored breast milk) can be a safe alternative during short formula shortages. Frozen breast milk is good for up to 6–12 months.

Emergency Formula Access Programs

Some hospitals, nonprofits, and WIC offices offer emergency formula supplies during shortages. Check with your provider or local health department.

Final Thoughts: Safety First in Every Feeding

Reading the expiration date on an infant formula can is a simple action that carries profound importance. It’s a guardian practice—one that protects your baby from preventable health risks and ensures they receive the full benefits of their nutrition.

Remember: The use-by date is not a suggestion—it’s a science-backed deadline. Always store formula properly, check dates before every use, and never serve formula that’s unverified or outdated. With the knowledge from this guide, you’re well-equipped to make safe, informed decisions every time you prepare a bottle.

Your baby deserves nothing less than the best—starting with a fresh, safe, and properly labeled can of formula. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep feeding with confidence.

What does the expiration date on a formula can mean?

The expiration date on a formula can indicates the last date the manufacturer guarantees the product’s full nutritional value, freshness, and safety under proper storage conditions. This date is determined through rigorous testing by the formula manufacturer to ensure that all essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients remain effective and intact. After this date, the formula may begin to degrade in quality, potentially losing some nutritional potency or developing changes in texture, color, or taste.

It’s important to understand that the expiration date is not the same as a “best by” or “sell by” date, which might be used for other food products. Formula is a critical source of nutrition for infants, and consuming it past the expiration date can pose health risks, especially since infants have developing immune systems. Pediatricians and health experts recommend strictly adhering to the expiration date to protect your baby’s health and ensure optimal nutrition.

Where can I find the expiration date on a formula can?

The expiration date on most infant formula cans is typically printed on the bottom, side, or top rim of the container. It’s often labeled as “EXP,” “Expires on,” or “Use by” followed by the specific date in month/day/year or day/month/year format, depending on the region. Always check for this marking before using the formula, as the location can vary slightly between brands and product lines.

Some manufacturers also include a batch or lot number near the expiration date. While the lot number can be helpful if there’s a recall, it should not be confused with the expiration information. If the label is faded, damaged, or difficult to read, it’s safest not to use the product and contact the manufacturer for clarification. Ensuring you’re using formula within its expiration window starts with accurately locating and interpreting this information.

Can infant formula be used after the expiration date?

Using infant formula after the expiration date is not recommended by health professionals or formula manufacturers. Over time, the nutritional content of the formula can deteriorate, especially vitamins like vitamin C and certain B vitamins, which are sensitive to degradation. Additionally, the formula may not mix properly with water, leading to clumping or uneven nutrient distribution, which can affect your baby’s digestion and overall health.

Beyond nutrient loss, expired formula may be more susceptible to bacterial contamination, especially once reconstituted. While unopened cans might appear intact past the expiration date, there’s no assurance of safety or efficacy. In rare cases, using expired formula has been linked to digestive issues or inadequate weight gain in infants. To safeguard your baby’s well-being, it’s best to discard any formula that has passed its expiration date.

How should I store formula to maintain its shelf life?

To maintain the shelf life of infant formula, store unopened cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or high humidity—such as a kitchen pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing formula in places like the garage or car, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. The can should remain sealed until ready for use to prevent moisture and contaminants from getting in.

Once opened, the storage rules change slightly. Transfer unused formula to an airtight container and use it within one month, as most manufacturers recommend. Keep the container in the same cool, dry location and never refrigerate dry formula, as condensation can promote clumping or bacterial growth. Following these storage practices helps ensure the formula stays fresh and safe until the expiration date.

What is the difference between expiration date and preparation date?

The expiration date on a formula can refers to the shelf life of the unopened product, indicating how long the dry formula remains nutritionally effective and safe. This date applies only to sealed cans stored under appropriate conditions. It is determined by the manufacturer through stability testing and must not be ignored, as it reflects the product’s peak quality and safety.

In contrast, the preparation date refers to the time when formula is mixed with water to make a ready-to-feed liquid. Prepared formula has a much shorter safe usage period—typically one to two hours at room temperature or up to 24 hours if refrigerated. Parents must track when a bottle is made and discard it accordingly, regardless of the dry formula’s expiration date. Confusing these two dates can lead to feeding unsafe or spoiled formula to your baby.

Are expiration dates the same for all types of formula?

Most powdered, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed infant formulas have expiration dates, but the duration and storage needs differ. Powdered formula typically has the longest shelf life, often lasting one to two years when unopened, while liquid formulas—both concentrated and ready-to-feed—usually expire within 12 to 18 months. Despite these differences, all types require adherence to the printed expiration date for safety and effectiveness.

Additionally, specialty formulas (such as hypoallergenic or metabolic formulas) may have shorter shelf lives due to sensitive ingredients. Always check the label closely, even if you’re familiar with another brand or type. The expiration date is specific to the product and its formulation, so never assume that all formulas expire on the same timeline, regardless of form or function.

What should I do if I accidentally give my baby expired formula?

If your baby consumes a small amount of expired formula and shows no immediate symptoms, closely monitor them for signs of discomfort, such as vomiting, diarrhea, irritability, or refusal to eat. Most cases of accidental ingestion may not lead to serious issues, but infants are more vulnerable than adults, so vigilance is essential. Contact your pediatrician as a precaution to discuss the situation and get personalized advice.

If your baby exhibits symptoms of illness or allergic reaction—such as rash, difficulty breathing, or persistent fever—seek medical attention immediately. When in doubt, it’s better to be cautious. In the future, always double-check expiration dates before preparing bottles, and establish a routine for inspecting formula stock to prevent recurrence. Keeping a log of opened cans and their usage can also help avoid such mistakes.