Utløpsdatoer

Utløpsdatoer, also known as expiry dates, are markings found on various products, most commonly food and medicines, indicating the date until which the product is expected to remain safe for consumption or use, and retain its intended quality.

For food products, the utløpsdato often refers to the "best before" date, which signifies the time the product is at its peak quality, such as taste and texture. Consuming food after this date does not necessarily mean it is unsafe, but its quality might have diminished. In contrast, some food items have a "use by" date, which is a safety deadline. Consuming food after its "use by" date can pose health risks.

Medicines also carry utløpsdatoer. These dates are crucial for ensuring the efficacy and safety of the medication. After the expiry date, the active ingredients in a medicine may degrade, reducing its effectiveness or even becoming harmful. It is strongly advised not to use expired medications.

The presence and interpretation of utløpsdatoer are regulated by governmental bodies in many countries to protect consumers. Understanding these dates is essential for making informed decisions about product consumption and use, contributing to both health and safety. Proper storage conditions, as often specified on the product packaging, are vital for products to maintain their quality and safety up to their indicated utløpsdato.