The purpose for this rule is to establish uniform standards for pull date labeling and safe storage conditions for perishable packaged food goods as described in RCW 15.130.300.

The purpose for pull dates is to inform the consumer of the expected length of shelf life for perishable packaged foods in order to allow them a reasonable amount of time to use the product under proper care and storage conditions.

The pull date indicates the last day that the product can be sold and still allow the purchaser a reasonable amount of time to use the product under normal usage and storage conditions.

Products can be sold after the pull date has expired if they are still wholesome, not a danger to health and clearly labeled indicating that the pull date has expired. They must be separated from products that are still within pull date.

The pull date must first show the month then the day of the month. The month can either be identified with three letters indicating the month such as DEC for December or by numbers indicating the month from one for January through twelve for December. The day of the month must be shown using two numbers such as 06 for the sixth day or 19 for the nineteenth day. When both the month and day of the month are shown by numbers they must be separated by a space or dash. The pull date must be separated from other numbers or letters on the label so as to prevent confusion.

Pull dates on perishable packaged foods subject to pull dating may not be changed, crossed-out or concealed.

The pull date must be placed on the label in a conspicuous location, that is clearly discernible. The pull date must be legible and of a type size consistent with the size of other required labeling.

Storage conditions and temperature requirements for perishable packaged foods are the same as required under chapter 246-215 WAC rules and regulations of the state board of health for food service and chapter 69.10 RCW Food storage warehouses.