Shelf Life Studies

Shelf life is the recommended, maximum time a food product can be stored. GPAL’s Shelf Life Studies quantify if the product is acceptable for distribution, storage and display, and the ensures length of time it may be stored before becoming unfit for use, consumption or sale.

The concept of the expiration date is related. An expiration date as it applies to selected food products is a previously determined date after which something should no longer be used if it exceeds the anticipated shelf life for perishable goods. The “sell by date” is another term often referred to as an expiration date. Most foods are still safe to consume after the expiration date. Although a food product has passed its shelf life, it might still be safe but the quality is no longer guaranteed.

Specific tests measure changes in food products that could significantly affect the quality of the product. Properly conducted Shelf Life Studies have shown that a reduction in the rate of deterioration in many food products can ensure a longer shelf life. A food product should be safe, retain acceptable quality and meet nutritional labeling requirements. There may be physiological, biochemical and bacteriological actions and reactions taking place within in a food product which can affect shelf life. The addition of antioxidants, antimicrobials and novel packaging processes are some of the food preservation methods used to extend the shelf life of a food product.

To determine if a food product is acceptable for consumption, GPAL examines such factors as organoleptic properties (i.e., texture, odor, appearance), microbial spoilage and chemical changes to the product during storage. View our Service Catalog for additional special testing we offers to our customers.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with our team of experts, please fill out the form below.

Name *

First

Last

Company Name *

Address: *

Phone Number *

Email *

What is the reason for shelf life testing?New ProductChange in ingredients, processing or packagingCustomer complaintOther

What is the product(s) you’d like to have shelf life testing performed on?

Describe your product or provide an ingredient list

Does your product(s) contain any preservatives or inhibitors?

• Yes
• No

Describe your processing

What is the current estimated shelf life?

Have you finalized packaging?

• Yes
• No

What is the size of the product in each container?

Do you utilize any modified atmospheric packaging?

• Yes
• No

What are your typical storage conditions?

• Room Temperature
• Refrigerated
• Frozen

Are you making any label claims? (i.e., specific level of Vitamin C)

If yes please describe.

What sensory characteristics are most important (appearance, odor, taste, texture)? Do you have any descriptors specific to your product for these characteristics?

When would you like to begin your study?

Submit