Shelf-life studies

Shelf-life studies , also known as shelf-life studies , aim to determine the stability and lifespan of a product under normal storage conditions. They help identify the point at which a product ceases to meet the quality, safety or efficacy criteria initially defined.
This approach is essential for establishing the best before date (BBD) , the minimum durability date (MDD) or the period after opening (POA) , depending on the type of product.

Shelf-life studies apply to food products as to cosmetic, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, plant-based or technical packaging formulations .

They constitute a key stage in product development , guaranteeing health safety , performance stability and regulatory compliance before marketing.

Study methodology

Shelf life studies are carried out over several weeks or months , depending on storage conditions and the nature of the product.
They are based on a series of periodic analytical tests to monitor the evolution of the product's characteristics over time:

• Microbiological analyses : counting of total flora, yeasts, molds, specific pathogens (Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, etc.) according to ISO or AFNOR standards.
• Physicochemical analyses : monitoring of pH, viscosity, water content, dry matter, color, active ingredients or texture.
• Sensory analysis : evaluation of the appearance, smell, flavor and texture of foodstuffs.
• Packaging control : verification of the integrity, permeability and compatibility of the container with the product (migration, release, condensation).

The tests are conducted according to protocols defined by reference guides (ISO, ICH, NF V, or European regulations) in order to ensure the reliability and comparability of the results.

For highly sensitive products, these studies can be supplemented by accelerated stability tests to predict long-term degradation in a shorter time frame. Find out more in the Accelerated Stability Test .

Matrices and application areas

Shelf life studies cover a wide variety of products and matrices:

• Food and nutraceutical products : food supplements, drinks, powders, energy bars, plant extracts, oils, emulsions.
• Cosmetic products : creams, gels, masks, serums, sunscreens.
• Materials and packaging : plastic films, active or recyclable packaging, polymers in contact with food.
• Animal and plant nutrition products : enriched foods, additive formulations, culture substrates.

These studies help to guarantee the microbiological stability , organoleptic quality and health safety of products throughout their commercial lifespan.

Industrial and regulatory applications

Shelf-life assessment is essential for:

• Determine the best before date or use-by date of food and supplements.
• Establish the PAO of cosmetic products according to Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009.
• Validate compliance with safety and labeling standards.
• Optimize formulation and packaging to extend shelf life.
• Prevent consumer complaints and logistical losses linked to product degradation.

In the context of products sensitive to oxidation or microbial contamination, these tests are often coupled with:

• Evaluation of the oxidation stability of fats and oils .
• The container-product compatibility test .
• Control of microbial contamination for sensitive products.

Interpretation and use of results

The data collected during the study make it possible to plot a stability curve over time , highlighting any observed degradation.
Critical parameters (such as loss of active ingredient, pH variation, microbial growth) are used to estimate the optimal shelf life of the product , by defining a safety margin adapted to the transport and storage conditions.

This scientific and predictive approach guarantees product reliability while optimizing their commercial life cycle.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab relies on a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited partner laboratories , specialized in stability studies, microbiology and physicochemical analyses.
Our teams support manufacturers, formulators and distributors in:

• The implementation of the experimental protocol adapted to the nature of the product.
• Complete analytical monitoring ( microbiological, chemical, sensory).
• Interpretation of results and determination of optimal storage life .

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , the management of shelf-life tests is simplified: request for quotes, sample tracking and secure access to analysis reports.

For any personalized study request, contact our scientific team now to design a protocol adapted to your products and regulatory objectives.