Shelf Life Definition and Factors
- Shelf life is the recommended maximum time for which products or fresh produce can be stored.
- It refers to the defined quality of goods remaining acceptable under specified conditions.
- Canned foods have different shelf lives based on their acidity levels.
- Preservatives, antioxidants, induction sealing, and vacuum/oxygen-barrier pouches can extend shelf life.
- Shelf life is specific to the product, package, and distribution system.
Pharmaceutical Shelf Life
- Expiration dates guarantee the full potency and safety of drugs.
- Most medications remain effective and safe past their expiration dates.
- A study by the FDA showed that about 90% of drugs are still effective up to 15 years after expiration.
- Drug manufacturers may specify shorter shelf lives to encourage repurchasing.
- The Shelf Life Extension Program (SLEP) tested and extended the shelf life of drugs for the US military.
Temperature and Shelf Life
- High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions and can lead to degradation of food and pharmaceuticals.
- Rubber products degrade and explosives become more unstable at higher temperatures.
- Cooling can extend the shelf life of certain products.
- Temperature control, such as refrigeration, is essential for extending the shelf life of perishable goods.
Health Considerations and Shelf Life
- Bacterial contaminants can make unused food dangerous to eat, leading to food poisoning.
- Shelf life alone is not a reliable indicator of food safety.
- Proper storage can extend the freshness of some foods beyond their sell-by date.
- Improper storage of milk can lead to bacterial contamination or spoilage before the expiration date.
- Health issues play a role in determining the shelf life of certain foods.
Other Applications of Shelf Life
- Shelf life applies to products beyond food and drugs, such as gasoline and glues.
- Time limits are applied to items like vouchers and gift certificates to ensure validity.
- Temperature data loggers and time temperature indicators help estimate the remaining shelf life of products.
- Shelf life estimation is crucial for managing stockpiles of medical countermeasures.
- Further reading and external links provide additional information on shelf life.
Shelf life Mentions
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/nicotine-pouches-vs-snus-difference-between-snus-and-nicotine-pouchesShelf life Data Sources
| Reference | URL |
|---|---|
| Glossary | https://www.alternix.com/blogs/glossary-of-terms/shelf-life |
| Wikipedia | http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelf_life |
| Wikidata | https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1689021 |
| Knowledge Graph | https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/02v65w |
