R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-111-6: Expiration dates.

An educational entity, person, or vendor who or that donates food as permitted by law shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability or penalty for any violation of any laws, regulations, or ordinances regulating the labeling or packaging of the donated product or, with respect to any other laws, regulations, or ordinances, for a violation occurring after the time of donation. The donation of nonperishable food that is fit for human consumption but that has exceeded the labeled shelf life date recommended by the manufacturer is protected, pursuant to this section, if the entity, person, or vendor who or that distributes the food to the end recipient makes a good faith evaluation that the food to be donated is wholesome.