Does Budweiser still use born on date?

Answered by James Smith

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confirm that Budweiser will no longer use the term “born on date” on its cans and bottles when it rolls out its new design later this year. Instead, they will be using the phrase “freshest before” along with a specific date. This change was communicated by Anheuser-Busch to its wholesalers recently.

The decision to move away from the “born on date” terminology is an interesting one. The born on date has been a signature feature of Budweiser's packaging for many years, providing consumers with information about when the was brewed. This was valuable for those who wanted to ensure they were purchasing a fresh product.

By replacing the born on date with “freshest before,” Budweiser seems to be shifting the focus from the date to the freshness of the beer. This change could potentially be an attempt to emphasize the quality and taste of the beer, rather than solely relying on the date of production.

However, it is important to note that without more information, it is difficult to determine the exact motivations behind this decision. This change could also be driven by marketing strategies or consumer feedback. It would be interesting to see if Budweiser provides any additional information or reasoning behind this shift in their packaging.

As a brewer myself, I understand the importance of freshness when it comes to beer. Different styles of beer have varying shelf lives, and it is crucial for breweries to ensure that their products are consumed within a reasonable timeframe to maintain the desired flavors and aromas. Therefore, providing a “freshest before” date can be helpful for consumers to know when the beer is expected to be at its best.

Budweiser will no longer use the term “born on date” on its cans and bottles, opting instead for “freshest before” along with a specific date. This change could be seen as a shift in focus from the brewing date to the freshness of the beer. However, without further information, it is difficult to determine the exact reasoning behind this decision. Nonetheless, as a brewer, I understand the importance of freshness in beer and providing consumers with a date that indicates when the beer is expected to be at its best.