Shelf life and best-before date

The best-before date (BBD) states until when an unopened food keeps its specific qualities such as taste, colour and consistency under proper storage. It is not an expiry date: afterwards the product is often still edible but should be checked.

Special rules apply to many drinks. Alcoholic drinks with at least 10 percent by volume do not need a BBD, while with less alcohol it is generally mandatory. Shelf life depends on production, closure, temperature and light. Opened drinks last much shorter. The applicable regulations are decisive.