nondurable

Nondurable goods are items that are consumed quickly or used up in a short period, typically less than three years of expected life. They contrast with durable goods, which provide utility over a longer span, such as appliances, vehicles, and furniture. Nondurables cover a wide range of everyday products that are purchased regularly and used soon after purchase.

Common examples include food and beverages, tobacco, cosmetics, medicines, paper products, cleaning supplies, and gasoline. Perishable nondurables include items like fruits, dairy, and fresh bakery goods, while non-perishable nondurables include items such as toilet paper and household cleaners. The defining characteristic is that their consumer utility is realized rapidly and the goods are generally not bought for long-term use.

In national accounts and economic analysis, nondurable goods are one of the main categories of final consumption, alongside durable goods and services. The boundary between durable and nondurable is often set at three years of expected life, though measurement conventions can vary by country and institution.

Economic characteristics of nondurable goods include frequent purchases, lower price points on average, and a greater sensitivity to income changes and seasonal factors. They usually involve shorter production cycles and faster inventory turnover, making them important in retail performance and everyday household budgets.

Nondurable goods constitute a substantial portion of consumer expenditures and retail sales, influencing economic indicators such as inflation, cost of living, and consumer sentiment, as well as policy considerations related to supply chains and affordability.