Finding the expiry date on your Vaseline product is usually quite straightforward.
Where to Look for the Expiry Date
According to the provided reference, the expiry date on Vaseline products is typically printed directly on the packaging. You should check the bottom or the side of the container first, as this is where it is most commonly located.
Common Locations
- Bottom of the Jar or Tube: This is a very common spot. Turn the container upside down.
- Side of the Label: Sometimes printed along the edge of the main label.
- Crimped End (for Tubes): Look at the sealed end of a tube product.
What the Expiry Date Looks Like
The date might appear in a couple of different formats. The reference mentions two possibilities:
- "Best Before" Date: This is a specific date (e.g., 12/2024 or DEC 2024) indicating when the product is expected to be best quality.
- Manufacturing Date Plus Usage Period: The packaging might show a manufacturing date (e.g., MFG 01/2023). This could be accompanied by a symbol or text indicating a recommended period for use after opening (often a small jar icon with a number and 'M', like
12Mfor 12 months). The reference also notes it could be a "manufacturing date followed by a recommended usage period."
Understanding the Formats
| Format | Description | Example Code | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Before | A specific date indicating optimal quality up to that point. | BB 12/25 | Best quality recommended before December 2025. |
| Manufacturing Date + PAO | Manufacturing date combined with Period After Opening (PAO) symbol. | MFG 06/23 + 12M | Manufactured June 2023. Use within 12 months after opening. |
| Direct Expiry Date | A specific date after which the product may not be suitable for use. | EXP 10/26 | Expires October 2026. |
| Lot Code Only | Sometimes only a manufacturing lot code is visible (less helpful for users). | L23185A | Requires internal lookup by the manufacturer. |
Note: Not all products will have a specific Best Before or Expiry date printed clearly. The Period After Opening (PAO) symbol is also crucial once the product has been opened.
Always check the packaging carefully, looking at different sides and the bottom. The date or code is usually printed in a contrasting color or embossed into the plastic.
