Best Before Dates Decoded: VBS Lab Report on Snack Quality

Date Published: December 2025

A recent nationwide inspection by the Vanuatu Bureau of Standards (VBS) has revealed important insights into the quality and safety of food products on our shelves. Laboratory tests conducted on snack items, including potato chips and baked snacks, show that “Best Before” dates are not just suggestions—they are key indicators of product quality, freshness, and safety.

As part of our ongoing commitment to consumer protection, VBS is sharing these findings to help you make informed choices and to remind retailers of their responsibilities under Vanuatu’s food safety regulations.

What the Laboratory Tests Revealed

Two snack products were analyzed in detail:

1. Potato Chips (1 Month Past Best Before Date)

• Chemical Safety: Safe to eat—no harmful rancidity detected.
• Quality Issue: Moisture content was elevated (2.22%), meaning the chips may have lost their crunch and freshness.
• Verdict: Acceptable with reservation—safe but not at peak quality.

2. Baked Snacks (On Best Before Date)

• Chemical Safety: Failed quality standards—critically high free fatty acids (2.5%).
• Quality Issue: High moisture (3.97%) and significant rancidity, leading to potential soapy or bitter taste and soft texture.
• Verdict: Unacceptable—not suitable for sale or consumption.

What “Best Before” Really Means

Best Before Date: This indicates the period during which the product is expected to remain at its best quality—in taste, texture, and freshness. It is not an expiry date, but eating food after this date may mean a decline in quality.

Use By / Expiry Date: Used for perishable items where safety may be compromised after the date. These are stricter and related to health risk.

In the cases studied, one product remained safe after its Best Before date but had lost quality, while another had already failed quality standards on its Best Before date due to packaging or ingredient issues.

Advice for Consumers

• Always Check Dates: Look for “Best Before” or “Use By” dates before purchasing.
• Trust Your Senses: If a product looks, smells, or tastes unusual—even if it’s within date—do not consume it.
• Store Properly: Keep dry snacks in sealed containers away from humidity to maintain crispness.
• Report Concerns: If you find expired or poor-quality products, inform the shop manager or contact VBS.

Reminder to Retailers and Shop Owners

Under the Vanuatu Bureau of Standards Act, all retailers are required to ensure products meet national standards. This includes:

• Regular Shelf Checks: Remove products past their Best Before dates, especially if quality is compromised.
• Proper Storage: Control humidity and temperature to preserve product integrity.
• Supplier Accountability: Source from reputable suppliers and verify product quality upon delivery.
• Cooperation with Inspections: VBS continues to conduct inspections nationwide. Your cooperation ensures a safer market for all.

VBS Is Here to Protect You

The Vanuatu Bureau of Standards remains dedicated to upholding food safety and quality across the nation. Through laboratory testing, inspections, and public awareness, we are working to ensure that every product sold in Vanuatu is safe, reliable, and of high quality.

Together, we can build a healthier, more informed Vanuatu.

For more information or to report a concern, contact the Vanuatu Bureau of Standards at +678 25978.

📄 Download Full Laboratory Reports

Access the complete laboratory analysis:

• Download Potatoe Chips Quality Analysis Report 1
• Download Windo Snacks Quality Analysis Report 1

Vanuatu Bureau of Standards
Ensuring Standards, Protecting People.