expiratie

Expiratie refers to the moment at which something loses validity, safety, or effectiveness. In many languages, including Dutch and Romanian, it is used for expiration dates on products, but it also covers the end of a contractual term, a license, or a scheduled data retention period. The concept derives from the Latin exspirare, meaning to breathe out, metaphorically marking the moment something ceases to be active.

In product contexts, expiratie is most visible as a date on food, medicines, cosmetics, or chemicals. Distinctions exist between use by dates, which indicate safety risk after the date, and best before or similar labels, which denote quality rather than safety. Storage conditions affect shelf life.

In legal and administrative contexts, expiratie marks the end of a contract, permit, or license, or the time limit within which a claim may be made (prescription). In information technology and data management, items such as passwords, tokens, licenses, or digital certificates may have expiratie dates to enforce revocation, renewal, or access control. Data retention policies may require deletion after a defined period, creating an expiry for records.

Managing expiratie involves monitoring dates, setting alerts, rotating stock, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Misunderstanding expiratie can lead to safety risks or compliance failures.