Shelf life is essentially the duration for which a product remains suitable for its intended purpose.
Defining Shelf Life
Based on the provided information, shelf life is the length of time that a commodity may be stored without becoming unfit for use, consumption, or sale. This key concept helps determine how long a product can reasonably be expected to maintain its quality and safety under specified storage conditions.
Understanding "Unfit" in the Context of Shelf Life
The reference clarifies that the term "unfit" can have different meanings depending on the context. It might refer to a product that is no longer appropriate for different storage or sales locations:
- Unfit for Use/Consumption: This refers to a commodity that should no longer be on a pantry shelf because it is no longer safe or of acceptable quality for use or consumption.
- Unfit for Sale: This refers to a commodity that should no longer be on a supermarket shelf. In this case, the product might still be fit for use by the consumer, but it no longer meets the quality standards required for retail sale.
Therefore, shelf life considers both the point at which a product is no longer safe or functional for the end user and the point at which it is no longer commercially viable or meets expected quality standards for retail.
