Shelf life

Shelf life is the length of time that a commodity may be stored without becoming unfit for use, consumption, or sale. In other words, it might refer to whether a commodity should no longer be on a pantry shelf, or no longer on a supermarket shelf. It applies to cosmetics, foods and beverages, medical devices, medicines, explosives, pharmaceutical drugs, chemicals, tyres, batteries, and many other perishable items.

In some regions, an advisory best before, mandatory use by or freshness date is required on packaged perishable foods.
The concept of expiration date is related but legally distinct in some jurisdictions.

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Source: Wikipedia · Image: Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

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