Manager's specials and markdown stickers on perishables

Many grocery stores put reduced-price stickers on perishable items that are approaching their sell-by date. You will find them on meat, poultry, bakery bread, dairy, deli items and bagged produce, often labeled as "manager's special," "reduced for quick sale" or a similar phrase. Kroger, regional supermarkets and many other chains use some version of this practice.

These markdowns can lower the cost of protein and fresh food, which are among the most expensive parts of the grocery budget. They also help reduce food waste. The key is knowing what the dates mean, what to look for and how to use or freeze markdown items quickly.

How perishable markdowns work

Stores track the dates on perishable items and reduce prices on those that are close to their sell-by or best-by date. The goal is to sell them before they need to be pulled from the shelf. The amount of the discount, the time of day markdowns are applied and which items qualify all vary by store and department, and stores do not usually publish a schedule.

Markdown items are often grouped in a dedicated section of the meat case, a bakery rack or a cart near the department. Some stores also place reduced stickers directly on the item where it sits on the shelf.

What the dates actually mean

Date labels on food in the U.S. are not standardized for most products, and they are mostly about quality rather than safety. The U.S. Department of Agriculture explains common terms at fsis.usda.gov. In general:

• "Sell by" tells the store how long to display the product. Many foods remain good for some time after that date if stored properly.
• "Best if used by" indicates when the product will be at its best flavor or quality.
• "Use by" is the last date recommended for peak quality, and for infant formula it is required by federal rules.

Food safety still depends on handling and storage. Follow USDA guidance on how long specific foods keep in the fridge and freezer, and trust your senses if something looks or smells off.

What to look for when buying

Meat and poultry

• Packaging intact, with no tears or leaks.
• Color and smell within normal range for the product.
• Kept cold in the case.
• A plan to cook it within a day or two or freeze it right away.

Bakery

Bread and baked goods near their date are usually fine for toast, croutons, bread pudding or freezing. Check for mold, which is a reason to skip the item.

Dairy and deli

Yogurt, cheese and deli items should be within their date and properly chilled. Buy only what you can use soon, since dairy close to its date has less time left in your fridge.

Produce

Bagged salads, ripe bananas and soft fruit are often marked down. These work well for smoothies, baking, soups and sauces the same or next day.

Shelf-stable markdowns

Not every markdown is perishable. Dented cans, damaged boxes and discontinued pantry items sometimes end up on a discount shelf or cart. Avoid cans that are bulging, leaking or deeply dented, especially along the seams, and skip packages whose inner seal is broken. A crushed cereal box with an intact bag inside is usually fine.

Making markdowns part of your routine

1. Check the markdown section first when you enter the meat or bakery department.
2. Stay flexible on meals: plan a few recipes that work with whatever protein is discounted.
3. Freeze promptly: wrap meat tightly, label it with the date and freeze it the day you buy it.
4. Thaw safely: in the refrigerator, in cold water or in the microwave, following USDA guidance.
5. Do not overbuy: a freezer full of markdown meat is only savings if you eat it.

What it really saves, and the catch

Markdown perishables can significantly lower the cost of protein and fresh food when you are flexible about what you cook. For households that plan meals around what is discounted, buying markdowns regularly can make a noticeable difference in the grocery bill.

The catch is time. Markdown items have a short window, and if they sit in the fridge past their prime, the savings become waste. Buy markdowns only when you have a plan for them, and freeze anything you will not cook within a day or two. When in doubt about safety, throw it out.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to eat meat on or after the sell-by date?

The sell-by date is mainly for the store. USDA guidance says many products remain safe if handled and stored properly. Cook or freeze promptly and follow USDA storage recommendations.

What time of day do stores mark down perishables?

It varies by store and department, and stores rarely publish it. Shopping at different times and asking staff can help you learn your store's routine.

Can I use coupons on markdown items?

Many stores accept coupons on reduced items as long as the coupon does not exceed the price. Check the store's coupon policy.