vanhentumispäivän

Vanhentumispäivä is a Finnish term that translates to "expiration date" or "best before date." It refers to the date indicated on a food product, after which the quality of the food may be diminished, although it may still be safe to consume. This date is determined by the manufacturer and is based on factors such as the ingredients, packaging, and storage conditions.

There are two main types of dates found on food products in Finland, as in many other countries: "parasta ennen" (best before) and "viimeinen käyttöpäivä" (use by). The "parasta ennen" date indicates when the food is expected to retain its optimal quality. After this date, the food may still be safe to eat, but its taste, texture, or nutritional value might have changed. Consumers are encouraged to use their senses – sight, smell, and taste – to determine if a product is still acceptable after its "parasta ennen" date.

The "viimeinen käyttöpäivä" date, on the other hand, is a stricter deadline, typically found on highly perishable foods like fresh meat, fish, or dairy products. Consuming food past its "viimeinen käyttöpäivä" date can pose a health risk, as harmful bacteria may have grown. Therefore, it is generally advised not to consume products after this date. Understanding the difference between these two dates is crucial for minimizing food waste while ensuring food safety.