"expiration date" vs "expiry date"

Question

"expiration date" vs "expiry date"

Both 'expiration date' and 'expiry date' are correct and commonly used to refer to the date by which a product should be used or consumed. The choice between the two terms may depend on regional preferences, with 'expiration date' being more common in American English and 'expiry date' more common in British English.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

The term 'expiration date' is used to indicate the date by which a product, such as food or medication, should no longer be used. It is commonly found on packaging to inform consumers about the product's shelf life.

Examples:

Check the expiration date on the milk carton before drinking it.
The expiration date for this medicine is printed on the bottle.
Make sure to consume the yogurt before the expiration date.
The expiration date for this product is approaching, so use it soon.
It's important to pay attention to the expiration date on canned goods.

Alternatives:

use by date
best before date
sell by date
consume by date
shelf life

The term 'expiry date' is used in British English to indicate the date by which a product, such as food or medication, should no longer be used. It serves the same purpose as 'expiration date' in American English.

Examples:

Please check the expiry date on the package before consuming the product.
The expiry date for this item is clearly marked on the label.
It's important to be aware of the expiry date of perishable goods.
The expiry date for this product is approaching, so use it before then.
Make sure to consume the food before the expiry date.

Alternatives:

use by date
best before date
sell by date
consume by date
shelf life

Answer 1

expiration date

This phrase is correct and commonly used in American English to refer to the date by which a product should be used or consumed.

Answer 2

expiry date

This phrase is correct and commonly used in British English to refer to the date by which a product should be used or consumed.

"expiration date" vs "expiry date"

expiration date

expiry date

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