What does the date on the can of tomato products mean?

Most canned products now have a "best if used by" date on the top or bottom of the can, though these are not common in all parts of the U.S. "Best by" dates are not about safety; they indicate the last point at which the manufacturer will guarantee the peak quality (taste, appearance, nutritional values stated on the can, etc.). of the product.
 
Source(s):
Jewel Food Store, Niles, IL, shelf research
USDA Fact Sheets “Food Product Dating”