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Why is expiry date important?
Every product has a shelf life. That is, for how long can it be used safely and in good quality. Over time, air, moisture, temperature, light and small bacteria and fungi damage the quality of any product. For this reason, companies test and decide how long any product will remain safe. On that basis the company writes the expiry date on the product.

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Why is there an expiry date on food items?
Food products can spoil after a limited time. Bacteria or fungus grow in these. Due to this, the taste, color, smell and nutrition of the product may change. Many times eating such a product causes food poisoning or other stomach problems. Therefore, information like expiry date or Use By and Best Before is written on packaged food.
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What does the expiry date on medicines mean?
In case of medicines, expiry date is even more important. Any medicine becomes less effective after its expiry date, or its serious side effects increase. Therefore, do not use the medicine even by mistake after the expiry date. Especially in medicines like antibiotics, insulin, eye drops and injections. While taking medicine, definitely check its date.
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Are expiry date and best before the same thing?
no way. Expiry Date means – After this the use of the product will not be considered safe. Best Before means the quality of the product remains best till this date. After this, in some cases the product may become safe, but the taste, color or quality is not the same as before.
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Do goods spoil the day after their expiry date?
No. This is not the case with all products. Some food products may remain safe for a short time after the Best Before date if stored properly. But avoid using products on which Use By or Expiry date is written after that date. Especially in case of medicine, do not accidentally use it after the expiry date.
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What do companies do to extend the expiry date?
Companies adopt many methods to keep the product secure, such as better packaging, vacuum pack, airtight containers, storing in cold temperatures. Permitted preservatives are used in some food products. Preservatives are natural or chemical products that protect food products, medicines and beauty products from bacteria and fungus.
Content Source: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, World Health Organization, United States Food and Drug Administration, National Health Service, European Food Information Council.
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