Why do common household items (shampoo, toothpaste, medicine, etc.) have expiration dates and what happens once the expiration date passes?

Question

Why do common household items (shampoo, toothpaste, medicine, etc.) have expiration dates and what happens once the expiration date passes?

In: Other

Answer 1

The expiration date is means the company tested the product to be stable for that period of time. After that, they are not responsible any more. However, I do work in a cosmetic company and I can tell you that a shampoo can be used well after its expiration date (usually written 3 years). as long as the aspect and appearance looks ok. Even if the aspect is not fine, it won’t hurt if you use it, it just means it wont be as effective anymore.
For medicines i cant comment, nor my area.