Discover how to read manufacture dates and Julian calendar codes on #10 food storage cans and MREs. Learn how storage conditions affect food shelf life and download a Julian date converter for quick reference.
New, Easy-to-Read Food Storage Dates
We often receive questions about the dates printed on our #10 cans. Previously, The Ready Store used the Julian calendar to label these cans. However, we’ve simplified things by printing clear, easy-to-read manufacture dates on our labels.
Why MREs Still Use Julian Calendar Dates
Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs) are primarily used by the United States military, which follows the Julian calendar system for consistency. This system remains standard for MRE manufacturers, and unfortunately, we cannot influence a change.
To understand MRE dates better, read our detailed guide: Solving the Mystery of MRE Expiration Dates.
Expiration Dates vs. Manufacture Dates
Customers often ask: “Why don’t you print expiration dates on your food cans?” The answer is simple: the shelf life of food storage depends on storage conditions.
For optimal food longevity, store your food in an environment with temperatures between 60–75°F. The cooler and drier the storage, the longer the food will remain safe to consume.
How to Read Julian Calendar Dates
Many older food storage cans and MREs still feature Julian date stamps. Here’s how to decode them:
What Is the Julian Calendar?
The Julian calendar counts days continuously, starting from January 1, 4713 BC. Today, it is widely used for product dating, military records, and astronomical calculations.
Examples of Julian Dates
- Example 1: 10229 → Manufactured in 2010 on the 229th day (August 17).
- Example 2: 11067 → Includes batch number and code, translating to March 8, 2011.
- Example 3: 11143 → May 23, 2011 (with a dash separating batch reference and Julian date).
- Example 4: 12289 → October 15, 2012 (289th day of 2012).
Download Your Julian Date Converter
To simplify decoding Julian calendar dates, we’ve created a handy Julian Date Converter that you can print and keep with your food storage records. This sheet is especially useful during power outages or emergencies.
