expiratiedatum

Expiratiedatum, also known as expiry date, is the date after which a product should not be used or consumed because its safety or effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. It is typically printed on consumer goods such as foods, medicines, cosmetics, and chemicals.

It is commonly found on perishable items and substances with potential health risks. In Dutch usage, expiratiedatum contrasts with houdbaarheidsdatum (best before): expiry indicates safety concerns and mandatory disposal after the date, while best before refers to quality that may deteriorate without an immediate safety risk.

Labeling and regulation vary by country, but many jurisdictions require a clearly printed expiratiedatum on packaging, sometimes accompanied by the batch or lot number. Storage conditions, including temperature and humidity, can affect the stated date and the product’s shelf life. For medicines and some chemical products, the expiry is particularly important because potency and safety can decline over time.

Practical guidance includes not using products after the expiratiedatum and keeping items in their original packaging and stored as directed. For medicines, cosmetics, and other health-related items, the expiratiedatum should be treated as a hard limit. Disposal should follow local guidelines for expired or hazardous materials, rather than simply recycling or discarding as ordinary waste.