How to read trader joe’s expiration dates

Understanding the importance of expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products

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Expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products play a crucial role in ensuring both food safety and consumer well-being. Understanding the importance of these dates is essential for making informed decisions when purchasing and consuming their products. In this section, we will explore the significance of expiration dates in maintaining food quality and safety. We will also discuss the responsibility that consumers hold in checking and abiding by these expiration dates for their own health and satisfaction.

The role of expiration dates in ensuring food safety

Expiration dates are very important for food safety. Trader Joe’s uses this to tell customers when a product is no longer safe to consume. They use numbered dates, coded dates, can codes, 7-digit dates, 4-digit date codes, 3M date codes, and date stamps to indicate freshness.

Factors like time, temperature, humidity, and sunlight can affect the shelf life. So it’s important to follow storage instructions properly. For example, frozen items should be stored at the right temperature and thawed correctly.

You should also keep an eye out for signs of spoilage. Changes in color, texture, or smell could mean your food is no longer safe. By following these steps, you’ll ensure you are using Trader Joe’s products safely.

So remember: expiration dates may be annoying, but they save you from unpleasant surprises!

Consumer responsibility in checking expiration dates

Consumers must be aware of Trader Joe’s expiration date formats, such as numbered dates, coded dates, can codes, 7-digit dates, 4-digit codes, 3M codes, and date stamps. This ensures they can tell the freshness of the products they buy.

Moreover, certain factors like time, temperature, humidity, sunlight, and packaging can impact shelf life. So, checking expiration dates and taking these into consideration is key.

Furthermore, proper storage instructions can prolong shelf life. Consumers should follow these instructions carefully. This includes correctly storing frozen items, dehydrating and storing products if needed, and refrigerating or freezing items in the coldest part of the appliance.

Lastly, consumers should also monitor their food for spoilage signs (sight, smell) to avoid potential health risks from eating expired food.

To conclude, for food safety when buying or consuming Trader Joe’s products, consumers must check expiration dates, consider shelf life factors, follow storage instructions, and monitor for signs of spoilage. This will help them make informed decisions and prioritize their health.

Different formats of expiration dates used by Trader Joe’s:

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Different formats of expiration dates used by Trader Joe’s are explained in this section, such as numbered expiration dates, coded expiration dates, can codes, 7-digit expiration dates, 4-digit date codes, 3M date codes, and date stamps. Get ready to unravel the codes and gain valuable insights into understanding the freshness of Trader Joe’s products.

Numbered expiration dates

Numbered expiration dates are an important part of Trader Joe’s product labels. They provide guidance to consumers on when a product should be consumed. For instance, “12/31/2022” means the item can’t be consumed after December 31st, 2022.

These dates have two main purposes. Firstly, they make sure food is safe to eat. They help people know how long a product can be used. This minimizes the risk of eating spoiled or dangerous food.

Secondly, these dates help with inventory management. Knowing when products expire allows people to prioritize and avoid wasting food.

Trader Joe’s uses different formats for these dates, like month/day/year or day/month/year. This ensures people can easily read and understand the dates no matter their preferred format.

Consumers should check and understand the numbered expiration dates. This ensures products are consumed in their recommended timeframe, keeping freshness and quality.

To sum it up, numbered expiration dates keep food safe and help people be aware. Following these labels and using the information helps people choose Trader Joe’s products while avoiding health risks from expired items.

Coded expiration dates

Coded expiration dates are vital for providing info on Trader Joe’s product shelf life. They track and show the freshness and safety of items. Knowing these codes allows customers to make decisions regarding purchase and consumption.

Expiration dates come in various formats. Here’s an overview:

• Numbered: Represented numerically.
• Coded: Need to be deciphered. Can contain patterns or characters that stand for dates or timeframes.
• Can: Used on canned goods, showing production dates and recommended consumption timelines.
• 7-digit: Seven digits representing date, usually MM/DD/YY.
• 4-digit: Just four digits, giving minimal expiry or manufacturing date info.
• 3M: Three digits indicating month and year, like MMMYY (e.g., JAN21).
• Date stamps: Printed expiry dates using MM/DD/YYYY or day-month-year format.

Trader Joe’s may also use other unique coded date variations. It’s important for customers to know these to tell the freshness and shelf life of their purchases. Knowing the coded expiration date formats helps customers make sure the safety and quality of their products.

Can codes

In the table below, we can see examples of can codes that Trader Joe’s uses:

The first code, “ABC123,” is an alphanumeric code. It may indicate the batch or production run of a product. “01AUG2022” follows a date format, it is the expiration date. “D507” is a coded representation of either the production date or expiration date.

Not all Trader Joe’s canned products use can codes for expiration dates. Some may have numbered expiration dates or other formats.

It is important to understand the can codes correctly. This way, consumers can ensure they use Trader Joe’s products before they expire. This helps with food safety.

So check those can codes before consuming or discarding Trader Joe’s canned products. This will help you appreciate their freshness and quality.

7-digit expiration dates

7-digit expiration dates used by Trader Joe’s have different formats. These include numbered expiration dates, coded expiration dates, can codes, and more. Knowing these helps people make sense of each number or code combination, so they can work out when a product is due to expire.

Other factors also influence shelf life. These are time, temperature, humidity, sunlight, and packaging. Following proper storage instructions is key to making products last longer and stay fresh.

Consumers must use their senses to decide when a product is past its best, even though the 4-digit date code may not show it’s expired. It’s like cracking a secret code! The only thing getting cracked is the flavor of Trader Joe’s products.

4-digit date codes

At Trader Joe’s, 4-digit date codes are essential for knowing product freshness and expiration dates. The codes are found on product packaging and made up of four numbers. For example, “0121” represents the 21st of January. This is a great way to tell if a product is still good.

The 4-digit codes slightly vary between products or categories, but usually follow a consistent format. By understanding these codes, shoppers can make informed decisions about using their purchases and ensure food safety. See example codes in the table below:

3M date codes

Trader Joe’s has a distinct format known as 3M date codes. These codes provide details on a product’s shelf life. It is essential to understand how to read them so that consumers can ensure food safety by consuming the products before they expire.

The code format is composed of “3M” and a particular code. For instance, “3M12345” displays the expiration date of a product. By deciphering these codes, customers can find out when the Trader Joe’s product will expire.

3M date codes are a specific feature used by Trader Joe’s. This coding allows for straightforward identification and tracking of items’ shelf life. It also aids inventory management and customer satisfaction. By utilizing this format, Trader Joe’s aims to give reliable details to consumers about when their products should be consumed or discarded, guaranteeing food safety.

Date stamps

Date stamps are vital to the success of Trader Joe’s products. They offer consumers the ability to see the age of items, and with different formats like numbered expiration dates, can codes, 7-digit expiration dates, 4-digit date codes, and 3M codes, customers can make sure they’re buying within their desired consumption period.

These date stamps also rely on external factors, such as time, temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure, to determine the shelf life of products. Proper storage instructions can help maximize the shelf life, like storing frozen items in the coldest part of the fridge or freezer, and monitoring for signs of spoilage.

By understanding and interpreting date stamps accurately, customers can make educated decisions about their purchases and get the most out of their money. Date stamps are key to maintaining food quality and safety, making them an essential part of Trader Joe’s.

Factors that affect the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products:

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Factors that affect the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products include time, temperature, humidity, exposure to sunlight, and packaging. Let’s delve into each of these sub-sections to understand how they can influence the overall freshness and quality of Trader Joe’s items.

Time, temperature, and humidity

Let’s analyze the impact of time, temperature, and humidity on shelf life using a table:

Time is significant – the longer food is stored past its expiration date, the more bacteria can grow. Temperature plays a role in the rate of microorganism increase. High temp speeds it up, leading to quicker spoilage. Colder temps slow it down, lengthening shelf life.

High levels of humidity are favorable for mold growth – especially with perishable items. Low humidity leads to dehydration or spoilage. Also, keep in mind that sunlight can affect product quality. Store Trader Joe’s items properly to maintain food safety and extend shelf life.

Exposure to sunlight

Proper packaging is key to protect Trader Joe’s products from sunlight. Using materials with UV-blocking properties can help reduce damage. Consumers should store in cool, dark areas to limit exposure.

Expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products show shelf life, but sunlight can cause spoilage before that date. It’s best to use or consume these products before the expiration date. Or, follow storage instructions for a longer shelf life.

Packaging

Trader Joe’s packaging is designed to protect their products from external factors like moisture, air, and light which can cause spoilage. They use various types of packaging materials to maintain freshness and integrity. Resealable bags for snacks or sturdy containers for sauces and condiments – it’s all carefully chosen to ensure optimal preservation.

Plus, Trader Joe’s packaging includes clear labeling with expiration dates, which makes it easy to know when to consume the product. They also make sure the packaging complies with safety and hygiene standards, giving customers peace of mind.

Remember to follow proper storage instructions and check expiration dates, or you’ll end up tasting a science experiment gone wrong! Different formats like numbered dates, coded dates, can codes, 7-digit dates, 4-digit codes, 3M dates, and date stamps used in the packaging help consumers easily understand when to consume the product.

Proper storage instructions to extend the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products:

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Properly storing Trader Joe’s products is crucial to extend their shelf life and maintain their quality. In this section, we will explore the importance of following storage instructions to preserve the freshness and taste of the products. We will discuss specific guidelines for storing frozen items, the benefits of dehydration for longer shelf life, and the significance of placing refrigerated or frozen items in the coldest part of the refrigerator or freezer. Additionally, we will emphasize the significance of regularly monitoring for signs of spoilage to ensure food safety.

Importance of following storage instructions

Storage instructions are very important for keeping Trader Joe’s products safe and fresh. These instructions must be followed to prevent health risks and preserve the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the items. Temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight all have an impact on the quality and safety of products. Packaging is also very important for preserving freshness.

Frozen products have to be stored correctly too. Freezing can help keep perishable items for longer. It is important to understand how to freeze correctly, so that items still have their integrity when thawed.

Dehydration can also be used to store certain items. This method removes moisture which means these items can last longer without losing quality or safety.

When refrigerating or freezing Trader Joe’s products, they should be kept in the coldest part of the fridge or freezer. This ensures the temperature is optimal to minimize bacterial growth or spoilage.

It is also important to regularly check for signs of spoilage. Changes in color, texture, and odor can mean that a product is expired or unsafe to eat.

By following the storage instructions on Trader Joe’s packaging, consumers can make sure their products last as long as possible while maintaining safety and quality. It is essential to read and understand the instructions carefully.

Storage of frozen products

Frozen products must be stowed properly to guarantee quality and safety. Trader Joe’s gives tips for the storage of frozen items to make sure customers can enjoy them at their best. These instructions include data on temperature, packaging, and monitoring for signs of spoilage.

Let’s look into the storage requirements for frozen products at Trader Joe’s:

1. Temperature: Freezers should be set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower to keep frozen products intact. This cold temp helps prevent microbial growth and slows down food quality loss.
2. Packaging: Frozen items should stay in their original packaging or be moved to freezer-safe containers. The packaging from Trader Joe’s shields the product from freezer burn and keeps it fresh.
3. Monitoring: It is important to regularly check frozen products for signs of spoilage. This includes looking for ice crystals or discoloration, which can point to freezer burn or deterioration in quality. If changes are noticed, the food should be thrown out.

In short, proper storage of frozen products involves a constant low temperature, correct packaging, and regular observation for spoilage signs. By following Trader Joe’s guidelines, customers can make sure their frozen products remain safe and flavorful for longer.

Add some extra flavor with a cheeky side dish: Keep your dried fruit stored and hydrated, just like your hopes and dreams.

Dehydration and storing for longer periods

Dehydrating and storing correctly is important for preserving and extending the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products. They provide advice on how to store them right.

1. First, remove as much moisture as possible through air drying, sun drying, or with a food dehydrator. This decreases the water content, slowing microorganism growth that can spoil the food.
2. Then store in airtight containers. Mason jars and vacuum-sealed bags are great. This prevents moisture from re-entering and spoiling.
3. For the best results, store in a cool and dark place. Heat or light can degrade the quality and shorten shelf life.
4. Regularly check for signs of spoilage. Inspect texture, color, and smell before consumption. Discard if any changes or odors are detected.

By following these steps, the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products can be extended, and quality and safety standards maintained.

Storing refrigerated or frozen items in the coldest part of the refrigerator or freezer

Store refrigerated and frozen items in the coldest part of your refrigerator or freezer. This keeps them fresh, prevents spoilage and slows down bacteria growth. Also, lower temps preserve texture, flavor and nutrition in the food.

Organize your fridge or freezer to maximize space in the coldest area and make items easily accessible. Monitor the temps regularly to ensure they remain cold enough.

Time, temperature, humidity, sunlight and packaging all affect the shelf life of products. Check expiration dates and use your senses when assessing safety and effectiveness. Eat Trader Joe’s products before their expiration date or freeze them for longer. Read and understand code formats to accurately determine expiration dates.

Be mindful of food safety and adhere to proper storage instructions. Check expiration dates often so you can enjoy fresh, flavorful Trader Joe’s products. Don’t let spoiled food go unnoticed!

Regular monitoring for signs of spoilage

Be on the lookout for signs of spoilage when consuming Trader Joe’s products! Look for visible signs such as mold, discoloration, or a foul odor. Changes in texture or consistency can also be warning signs. Pay attention to any unusual tastes or smells, as well as any changes in the product’s packaging.

Remember to compare the expiration date to the product’s current condition. If there are any doubts about the freshness or safety of a product, it is best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it.

Regular monitoring is essential for food safety. Consumers should stay informed about proper storage practices and expiration dates. Factors such as time, temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight can all impact a product’s shelf life. Stay alert and prioritize food safety!

Frequently asked questions about reading expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products:

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Curious about those expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products? Get ready for all the frequently asked questions answered in this section! From understanding the expiration of frozen food to learning about proper freezing mechanisms for extended usage, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and decode those elusive dates!

Understanding the expiration of frozen food

Expiration dates on frozen food are super important for safe consumption and good quality. Knowing when frozen food expires is vital to avoid health risks. Trader Joe’s provides clear expiration date info so customers can make smart decisions.

• Trader Joe’s frozen food expiration dates come in numbered or coded formats. These can include can codes, 7-digit dates, 4-digit codes, 3M codes or date stamps.
• Numbered dates show the exact day when the product will expire.
• Coded dates require decoding using the key or guide to figure out the expiry date. It usually includes year and month info.

Understanding frozen food expiration at Trader Joe’s means knowing that freezing it properly can extend its shelf life. Seal packages tightly and remove excess air to maximize the lifespan. Monitor the food regularly for signs of spoilage or freezer burn.

Freeze foods the right way to prevent surprise freezer burn – nobody wants that!

Proper freezing mechanisms for extended usage

Want to extend the usage of Trader Joe’s products? Implement the right techniques! Follow these four steps for proper freezing:

To learn How to read trader joe’s expiration dates and make sure you’re consuming fresh products, visit a reputed source.

1. Make sure the product is in freezer-safe packaging. Transfer items to containers or resealable bags to avoid freezer burn.
2. Label containers with the product name and date it was frozen. This helps track how long it’s been stored.
3. When freezing soups or sauces, leave headspace in the container. Liquids expand when frozen.
4. Place labeled items in the coldest part of your freezer. 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 Celsius) is optimal.

These proper freezing mechanisms will help prolong the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products. Check regularly for signs of spoilage – ice crystals or discoloration, and discard when necessary. Knowing expiration dates is like solving a secret code!

General tips for reading and understanding expiration dates:

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When it comes to reading and understanding expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products, there are some general tips that can help make the process easier. In this section, we’ll explore the differences between open-date codes and closed codes, as well as how to read and interpret these codes. We’ll also discuss the importance of using judgment and relying on our senses to ensure safety and effectiveness. So, let’s dive in and unravel the secrets of decoding Trader Joe’s expiration dates!

Open-date codes vs closed codes

Open-date and closed codes on Trader Joe’s products have different expiration date formats. Open-date codes are readable, while closed codes require decoding.

Numbered expiration dates use a day, month, and year format. Can codes are typically found on cans and help manufacturers track inventory. 7-digit and 4-digit date codes provide another way to represent expiration dates. 3M date codes and date stamps are also found on various products.

Factors like time, temperature, humidity, sunlight, and packaging may affect shelf life. Follow packaging instructions for proper storage. Frozen items should be kept at low temperatures. Dehydration can help preserve certain items. Store items in the coldest part of the refrigerator or freezer for best results.

Rely on senses when determining product safety. Smelling, tasting, or visually inspecting can help.

Decoding open-date codes is like solving a delicious puzzle!

Reading open-date codes

Open-date codes on Trader Joe’s products are a must. They guarantee food safety and product quality. These codes tell us when the product was made and how long it is safe to use. It’s important to understand how to read the codes to make the right decision about freshness and safety.

1. Step 1: Look for numbers or letters on the packaging of Trader Joe’s products. These codes usually mean the date of manufacture, packaging, or expiration.
2. Step 2: Know the code format used by Trader Joe’s. It may be numbered, coded, 7-digit, 4-digit, 3M, or a date stamp. Each has its own system.
3. Step 3: Use the key provided by Trader Joe’s to interpret the code. Then you can tell what the expiration date is.

Knowing how to read open-date codes is key to spotting expired products and staying safe. Consumers can see if a Trader Joe’s product is still good using the codes. Being familiar with the different formats helps people to work with Trader Joe’s labeling systems.

Paragraph 4 (Pro Tip): If you’re not sure about an open-date code on a Trader Joe’s product, contact their customer service. They can help you make an informed decision with accurate expiration info. Decoding closed codes is like cracking a secret message – with added excitement of avoiding a food safety problem!

Understanding closed codes and different code formats

Closed codes refer to the formats of expiration dates used by Trader Joe’s. They aren’t easy to figure out and must be understood and decoded. The codes include:

• Numbered expiration dates
• Coded expiration dates
• Can codes
• 7-digit expiration dates
• 4-digit date codes
• 3M date codes
• Date stamps

It’s important for consumers to understand these codes when checking expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products. Each format shows the shelf life of a product. Numbered expiration dates indicate the day and year until which the product is fresh. Coded expiration dates use a combination of letters and numbers. Can codes are symbols on canned food items that show their expiry date. 7-digit expiration dates are numerical digits that show the month, day, and year that the product should be consumed or discarded. 4-digit date codes represent the month and year information. 3M date codes may be used internally by Trader Joe’s.

For example, a consumer buys a bottle of salad dressing with a closed code. They read the code carefully and understand the unique format of expiration date. With this knowledge, they can determine if the salad dressing is within its recommended timeframe or if it has expired and needs to be thrown out for safety.

Using judgment and relying on senses for safety and effectiveness

We must use our judgement and senses to guarantee the safety and efficiency of Trader Joe’s products. For expiration dates, we must rely on our instincts and common sense to decide if a product is safe to consume or use.

Expiration dates give us a hint of freshness and quality, but don’t always mean spoilage. Proper storage, temperature, and packaging can all affect the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products. We should remember this, plus the expiration date, when deciding if a product is safe.

Our senses can help us recognize any deterioration in Trader Joe’s products. By looking, smelling, and tasting, we can spot changes in appearance, smell, or flavor that may mean the product has gone bad. This helps keep us safe from food-borne illnesses.

Importance of expiration dates for food safety

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Expiration dates are key for food safety. Trader Joe’s includes them on their products so consumers can make informed decisions about the safety and quality of the food they buy.

The dates are based on product formulation, packaging and shelf life. They let people easily identify when a product is no longer safe to eat, and help them avoid foodborne illnesses.

Furthermore, expiration dates are a way to guarantee the best quality food. Trader Joe’s wants customers to have the freshest products, and the dates help them choose goods that fit their preferences.

It is important to remember these dates are not random. Trader Joe’s follows industry standards and guidelines to set accurate expiration dates. Following them is necessary for people’s health and safety.

Recommendations for using Trader Joe’s products before they expire or freezing for prolonged usage

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Check expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products before using them. This keeps the peak freshness and flavor. Consuming past the expiration date affects taste and texture.

If you find yourself with products nearing expiration, freezing them is a great option. This helps preserve quality and extends shelf life. Especially useful for items like bread, meat, and veggies.

When freezing, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Label containers too with product name and date of freezing. This helps you keep track of freshness. Learn how to read Trader Joe’s expiration dates to ensure you’re eating your food before it goes bad.

Follow these recommendations to make the most of Trader Joe’s products before they expire, or freeze them. Avoid waste, and enjoy their quality longer.

For details on expiration dates and freezing techniques, see reference article.

Conclusion highlighting the importance of accurately determining expiration dates for Trader Joe’s products and ensuring food safety

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Ensuring food safety requires accurate expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products. The store offers unique and diverse items, so understanding these dates is essential for preserving their freshness and quality.

Trader Joe’s follows “Sell By,” “Best By,” and “Use By” dates. These are not indicators of food safety, but instead show when the item is at its best.

Familiarizing oneself with Trader Joe’s coding system is important. It uses a combination of letters and numbers to mark expiration dates. This may require decoding, but it allows for easy identification of freshness.

Proper storage and handling are also essential for food safety. Even if a product has not reached its expiration date, incorrect conditions can lead to spoilage and health risks. Thus, following Trader Joe’s storage guidelines is vital.

In summary, determining expiration dates is key for food safety. By understanding the coding system and practicing proper storage and handling, consumers can ensure the freshness and quality of Trader Joe’s products.

FAQs about How To Read Trader Joe’S Expiration Dates

How can I read the expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products?

To read the expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products, you need to understand the different formats used by the company. These formats include numbered expiration dates, coded expiration dates, can codes, 7-digit expiration dates (Julian calendar code), 4-digit date codes, 3M date codes, and date stamps. Each format has its own unique way of representing the expiration date. For example, a numbered expiration date may be written as ‘040622’, which translates to April 6, 2022.

What factors can affect the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products?

Several factors can affect the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products, including time, temperature, humidity, exposure to sunlight, and packaging. It is important for customers to follow the storage instructions on the packaging to extend the shelf life of the products. Frozen products, in particular, should be stored frozen to prevent them from going bad quickly.

How can I maximize the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products?

To maximize the shelf life of Trader Joe’s products, it is recommended to use items before they expire or freeze them for prolonged usage. Food items can also be dehydrated and stored for a longer period of time. It is important to store refrigerated or frozen items in the coldest part of the refrigerator or freezer and to monitor the products regularly for any signs of spoilage.

Do Trader Joe’s frozen foods actually expire?

Yes, Trader Joe’s frozen foods do expire. However, proper freezing mechanisms can allow them to be used for an extended period of time. It is important to store frozen foods at the recommended temperature and consume them within a reasonable time frame to ensure quality and safety.

Are open-date or closed code expiration dates used by Trader Joe’s?

Trader Joe’s uses both open-date codes and closed codes for expiration dates. Open-date codes, such as “use by,” “sell by,” or “best by” dates, are meant for consumers and indicate recommendations on how long the item will be good for. Closed codes, on the other hand, are used by manufacturers for inventory and tracking purposes.

Are Trader Joe’s expiration dates regulated by the USDA or FDA?

No, expiration dates on Trader Joe’s products are not regulated by the USDA or the FDA. They are added at the discretion of the company. Therefore, it is essential to use your judgment and rely on your senses when determining the safety and effectiveness of a product.