The shelf life may be established by the manufacturer based on laboratory tests, microbiological indicators, as well as data on the stability of the composition. Different calculation methods are applied for various product categories, including accelerated testing and analysis of degradation of active components.
An important parameter is the expiration date, which is defined as the end point of the period during which the product is considered safe and suitable for use. Factors such as temperature, humidity, light exposure, and packaging integrity are taken into account.
Expiration Date = Production Date + Shelf Life
In some cases, the concept of "period after opening" (PAO) is used, which is relevant for cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. It reflects the time interval during which the product retains its properties after the packaging integrity is compromised.
| Product Category | Type of Shelf Life | Calculation Features |
|---|---|---|
| Food Products | Fixed | Depends on storage conditions and composition |
| Medicinal Products | Stability | Determined by clinical and laboratory data |
| Cosmetics | PAO | Takes into account the period after opening the package |
Violation of storage conditions or exceeding the shelf life can lead to changes in product properties, reduced effectiveness, or potential health hazards. Therefore, calculating and monitoring shelf life are important aspects of ensuring the quality and safety of products.