Are stores required, by law, to remove outdated items from their shelves?

The federal government requires this only for baby formula, baby foods under FDA inspection, and eggs 45 days past their packing date. However, state laws may require removal after the “sell by” date. If you accidentally buy a product that’s past its “use by” or “best by” date, the store will probably give you a refund as a good-will gesture.
 
Sources:
Consumer affairs.com “Expiration Dates: What do they mean?”
About.com Home Cooking “Expiration, Use-by, and sell-by Dates”

 
 

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