sell-by date

• Auf leicht verderblichen Produkten angegebenes Datum, bis zu dem sie verkauft werden dürfen; oft metaphorisch für etwas oder jemanden, der nicht mehr nützlich, wirksam oder aktuell ist.

The date marked on a perishable product indicating the last day it should be sold, often used metaphorically to refer to something or someone that is no longer useful, effective, or relevant.

1. Expiration date for foodB1formal

   The date printed on a food product indicating the last day it should be sold or consumed for optimal quality.

   Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum

   • Always check the sell-by date before buying milk.
   • The yogurt is still good even after its sell-by date.
   • Supermarkets often discount items close to their sell-by date.

2. Figurative: end of usefulnessB2informal

   A point in time when something or someone is no longer effective, popular, or useful.

   Haltbarkeitsdatum (übertr.)

   • That old computer has passed its sell-by date.
   • His political ideas are well past their sell-by date.
   • The company's outdated business model has reached its sell-by date.