ABSTRACT
Expiration dates are not just for food—they can also be found on manufactured products. A prominent example is an epinephrine auto-injector used to reverse allergic reactions, such as those that might occur among people who can have a life-threatening allergic reaction to a bee sting or eating peanuts, for example. There are many more products that should carry an expiration date, but the matter is complicated by the use scenario. For example, mascara applicators may sit unopened on the store shelf for many months without concern. Expiration dates that really matter should be highly visible by virtue of their conspicuous placement and good legibility. Conversely, expiration dates that are essentially “hidden in the corner” and have poor legibility invite continued device use past the expiration date, often by someone who is unaware of the associated risk. Consumers are expected to replace their auto-injectors before they expire.
