Säilyvyysmerkintä

Säilyvyysmerkintä refers to the labeling on food products that indicates their shelf life and how they should be stored to maintain their quality and safety. In Finland and many other European countries, there are two primary types of shelf-life indications: "parasta ennen" (best before) and "viimeinen käyttöpäivä" (use by).

The "parasta ennen" date signifies the period during which the food is expected to retain its optimal quality. After this date, the food is still safe to consume if stored correctly and shows no signs of spoilage, but its taste, texture, or nutritional value might have slightly diminished. This marking is typically found on non-perishable or semi-perishable goods such as dried pasta, canned goods, biscuits, and some dairy products.

The "viimeinen käyttöpäivä" date, on the other hand, indicates the absolute last day the food can be safely consumed. This marking is used for highly perishable foods that can pose a health risk if consumed after the specified date. Examples include fresh meat, fish, and some ready-to-eat meals. Consuming food past its "viimeinen käyttöpäivä" is generally not recommended.

Both types of markings are accompanied by storage instructions, such as "säilytä kuivassa" (store in a dry place) or "säilytä jääkaapissa" (store in the refrigerator), which are crucial for ensuring the food remains safe and of good quality until the indicated date. Proper understanding and adherence to these markings are essential for reducing food waste and preventing foodborne illnesses.