While buying any product, it is suggested that one should check the Manufacturing (Mfg) date and Expiry (Exp) date to ensure its quality and usability. But what exactly Mfg and Exp date and the difference between them? Understanding the difference between these terms can help you avoid using defective products, and you can make safer choices before buying.

What are Mfg and Exp dates?

It refers to the day the product was packaged or produced, marking the start of a product’s shelf life. Meanwhile, the exp date is the last date until which a product is expected to remain safe to use. Using something that has passed its expiry date can have serious health consequences as well.
It should be noted that not every product will have a Mfg and Exp date. Goods like medicines, food products like bread and milk, or cosmetics have both the details mentioned on them.

Difference between Mfg and Exp Dates:

Mfg date shows when the product was produced, whereas Exp date shows until when you should use that product.
 
  Manufacturing Date Expiry Date
Meaning Refers to the day the product was packaged or produced Last date until which a product is expected to remain safe to use
Purpose

Shows when the product's shelf life begins.

 Shows when the product's shelf life will end
Importance Helps consumers make safer choice Prevents consumers from using potentially unsafe products
     

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How can using a product past its expiry date affect your health?

If you are using a food item past its given expiry date, it can give you food poisoning, which includes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and much more. It can even lead to other serious health hazards.  
Talking about medications, using them after their expiry can cause serious health complications. Meanwhile, using a skincare product past its expiry date can lead to skin damage and even bacterial infection.
Therefore, it is important to check both the Mfg and Exp date before buying products related to food, skincare, medications, and more.
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