Säilyvyysajan

Säilyvyysajan refers to the shelf life or expiration date of a product, particularly food items and pharmaceuticals, in Finnish. It indicates the period during which a product is expected to remain safe and of acceptable quality when stored properly. This timeframe is determined by factors such as the ingredients, processing methods, packaging, and storage conditions.

There are typically two types of expiration date markings found on products. "Parasta ennen" translates to "best before" and signifies the date until which the product retains its optimal quality, flavor, and texture. After this date, the product may still be safe to consume, but its sensory attributes might have diminished. "Viimeinen käyttöpäivä" means "use by" and is generally applied to highly perishable foods. Consuming a product after its "use by" date is not recommended due to potential health risks.

Understanding säilyvyysajan is crucial for consumer safety and to minimize food waste. Consumers are advised to check these dates before purchasing and consuming products. Proper storage, as indicated on the packaging, is essential to ensure the product reaches its indicated shelf life. Once a product has passed its säilyvyysajan, especially its "viimeinen käyttöpäivä," it should be discarded.