How do you communicate the shelf life information to your customers and consumers?

On food labels, "best before" dates are like a freshness guide—your food’s peak moment. It might still be good after this date, just not as fresh. On the flip side, "use by" dates are a strict safety deadline. Stick to these dates to avoid any potential food mishaps. So, for quality, keep an eye on "best before," but for safety, "use by" is your golden rule. Make sure to explain this to your customers so they know exactly when their food is at its best and when it’s time to toss it.

To customers- It can be through specification sheets and certificate of analysis To consumers- Through the terms 'best before' and 'use by' on the back of pack. One thing that we should do in both cases, is to bit more specific in terms of the conditions where the shelf life can be achieved. Suppose it says, store at room temperature. Best before 3 months. It is kind of vague, as room temperatures can differ vastly between places in a region even. So we should mention the temperature and humidity conditions. Also, shelf life testing should evolve according to the region of sale in this case.

When conveying the shelf life of your product to consumers, label compliance is critical. Adhering to the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, you must provide clear information such as "use by date," "best before," or "expiry date," depending on the product category. The format and terminology must align with these regulations to ensure transparency and consumer trust. Proper labeling not only helps consumers make informed decisions but also protects your brand from legal issues. Always ensure shelf life information is prominently displayed and easily understandable to enhance compliance and consumer confidence.

Keep shelf life dates and methods consistent for all products in the same category to build trust and avoid confusion. Regularly test and validate these dates, and be transparent about your processes. Create a simple online resource where customers can see how shelf lives are determined and access any relevant information. Encourage feedback from customers about their experiences, making them feel involved. By maintaining consistency and being open, you enhance your reputation and reduce complaints.

To help customers understand shelf life, try these practical strategies: 1. Interactive Labels: Add QR codes to labels that link to short videos explaining shelf life and storage tips. 2. Social Media Posts: Share simple tips on shelf life and storage on your social media. Use clear graphics and encourage questions. 3. Flyers: Include easy-to-read flyers with product purchases that explain shelf life and handling. 4. Website Section: Create a dedicated area on your website with articles and FAQs about shelf life and storage. 5. Customer Service Training: Ensure staff can answer common questions about shelf life and usage. These steps will help customers use your products safely and effectively.

Actively seeking customer feedback on shelf life information is crucial for improving communication and practices. Start by using surveys and social media polls to identify areas of confusion, such as unclear shelf life dates. For instance, if customers frequently express uncertainty, consider enhancing labeling and online resources for better clarity. Regularly monitor metrics like customer satisfaction and retention rates; a positive shift can indicate that your efforts are effective. By valuing feedback and adapting your practices, you not only improve food quality and safety but also strengthen customer loyalty and trust in your brand.