Lõppkuupäevade

Lõppkuupäevade, meaning "expiry dates" in Estonian, refers to the date indicated on a product after which it is not recommended for consumption or use. This term is most commonly associated with food and beverages, but also applies to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and certain other perishable goods. The lõppkuupäevade is determined by manufacturers based on scientific testing and aims to guarantee the product's quality, safety, and efficacy up to that point.

There are typically two types of expiry dates found on products. The "kõlblik kuni" (best before) date indicates when a product is expected to retain its optimal quality, such as taste, texture, and aroma. While consuming a product past its "kõlblik kuni" date may not pose a health risk, its quality might have diminished. The "süüa enne" (use by) date, on the other hand, is more stringent and refers to the date by which the product should be consumed for safety reasons. Consuming a product after its "süüa enne" date may be unsafe, especially for certain high-risk foods.

Consumers are advised to pay close attention to lõppkuupäevade to ensure they are using and consuming products safely and effectively. Proper storage conditions, as indicated on the packaging, are crucial for maintaining product quality until the lõppkuupäevade. Ignoring these dates can lead to reduced product quality, potential health hazards, and unnecessary waste.