Säilitusaega

Säilitusaega refers to the shelf life or expiration date of a product, commonly food or medicine. It indicates the period during which the product is expected to remain safe for consumption or use and retain its intended quality and properties. This timeframe is determined by manufacturers based on various factors, including the ingredients, packaging, storage conditions, and the product's inherent stability.

The säilitusaega is typically expressed as a date, often in a day/month/year or month/year format. For food products, it is crucial to adhere to this date to avoid potential health risks associated with spoilage, such as the growth of harmful bacteria. For medicines, exceeding the säilitusaega can lead to a decrease in potency or the formation of toxic substances, rendering the medication ineffective or dangerous.

There are two main types of shelf-life indications. "Best before" dates relate to quality, meaning the product may still be safe to consume after this date but might not be at its peak flavor or texture. "Use by" dates, however, are primarily concerned with safety, and it is generally not recommended to consume products past this date, especially for perishable goods. Proper storage, as recommended by the manufacturer, is essential to ensure the product reaches its indicated säilitusaega.