Shelf life of product with Phenoxyethanol preservative
Question
Regarding the shelf life of a finished product using Phenoxyethanol as a preservative:
If the raw material has a shelf life of approximately 1.5 years (longer if refrigerated), what is the expected shelf life of the finished product when using `Phenoxyethanol` according to guidelines and clean mixing procedures? Is refrigeration required for the finished product?
Answer
Based on the information provided:
The shelf life of the raw material (at least 1.5 years, longer if refrigerated) is related to its inherent quality and degradation.
Adding Phenoxyethanol as a preservative helps prevent spoilage caused by microorganisms, which is a different issue.
If Phenoxyethanol is added correctly according to guidelines, the mixing process is clean, and factors such as the amount used and the container are suitable, the product can last for approximately 2 years or more without refrigeration.