2 pp. / With the exception of infant formula and baby food, product dating is not required by federal regulations. There is no uniform system used for food dating by manufacturers in the U.S. Although dating of some foods is required by more than 20 states, some states do not require any date codes. This publication is a brief guide for how to read food dating, which includes; types of dates, safety after dates expire, changing dates, dating of infant formula and baby food, can codes, dates on egg cartons, and storage times.