California AB 660 Guide
The California Food Date Labeling Act requires grocery retailers to clearly communicate food quality dates and automatically mark down prices on items nearing expiration.
What is AB 660?
Assembly Bill 660 (AB 660) was signed into law in October 2023, establishing the California Food Date Labeling Act. This groundbreaking legislation standardizes date labeling on food products and mandates automatic markdown pricing for items approaching their quality dates.
The law applies to all grocery retailers operating in California with annual gross sales exceeding $2 million.
1 Standardized Date Labels
All food products must use either "BEST if Used By" (indicating quality) or "USE By" (indicating safety) as the only allowable date label phrases. Confusing terms like "Sell By" or "Best Before" are prohibited.
2 Mandatory Markdown Pricing
Items within 30 days of their "BEST if Used By" date must be automatically marked down by at least 50%. This applies to non-perishable packaged goods, frozen foods, and other shelf-stable items.
3 Consumer Transparency
Retailers must display clear signage explaining the difference between quality dates and safety dates, helping consumers make informed decisions about food purchases.
4 Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with AB 660 can result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation per day, with escalating fines for repeat violations. Compliance is not optional.
Compliance Timeline
AB 660 signed into law
Initial guidance documents released by CA Department of Food and Agriculture
Full compliance required — All provisions of AB 660 become enforceable
How Xpired Helps You Comply
Automated Markdowns
Our system automatically calculates and applies the required 50% discount as items approach their quality dates.
Smart Date Tracking
AI-powered scanning reads and interprets date labels, flagging items that need markdown or removal.
Compliance Reporting
Generate detailed reports on markdowns, waste reduction, and regulatory compliance for state audits.
Consumer Education
In-app messaging and signage templates explain date labeling to shoppers, improving trust and sales.