One shelf life cannot be assigned to every bay product. Use the manufacturer’s date for that product together with its format, packaging and storage conditions.

Check the label on receipt

Review batch number, product name, stated date and storage instructions. Do not accept damaged or wet packaging as equivalent to intact goods; record the issue for discussion with the supplier.

Keep traceability after opening

If transferring the product to another container, retain its batch and date information. Record opening, close the pack between uses and maintain labelled conditions. Mixing old and new batches without records makes stock tracking harder.

Request shelf-life terms in writing

Include remaining shelf life at delivery, packaging and storage conditions in the quotation. Colour or smell alone does not establish microbiological suitability. Use product and batch documentation instead of a universal 24-month claim.