Committee releases food date-labeling bill to reduce waste; industry raises concerns about federal standard and operational costs

A Senate committee released a bill (S200) directing the Commissioner of Health to establish standards for food date labeling, to create a public-education program, and to promulgate guidance related to food safety and food‑label date terms.

Representatives of the Association of New Jersey Recyclers supported the measure as a way to reduce avoidable food waste driven by inconsistent “best by” and “use by” labels. Wayne DeFeo (Association of New Jersey Recyclers) said lack of a clear standard causes consumers to discard food that is safe but past a quality date, contributing to landfill methane and lost food donations.

Industry groups, including the New Jersey Food Council and several trade associations, opposed aspects of mandatory state labeling standards. Mary Ellen Pippard of the New Jersey Food Council warned that state-level mandates could create a patchwork of rules that complicate nationally distributed products and packaging and increase costs. She noted industry efforts on consumer tools such as the FoodKeeper app and asked for flexibility and a federal standard where possible.

Witnesses urged the DEP and Health Department to coordinate on guidance, and stakeholders proposed a model ordinance and a phased approach. The committee released the bill after discussion and a roll-call vote recorded a majority in favor.