What is the term for the amount of time a product can be kept before it needs to be discarded?

The correct term for the amount of time a product can be kept before it needs to be discarded is "Shelf Life." Shelf life refers to the period during which a product remains safe to consume or use while maintaining its intended quality and effectiveness. This term is widely used in the food and beverage industries, as well as in pharmaceuticals, to indicate how long a product can be stored before it degrades or becomes unsafe.

In contrast, other options refer to different concepts. The expiration date generally denotes a specific date after which a product should not be used, and it is a more definitive marker often found on perishable goods. Service life usually pertains to the expected duration of functionality or performance in tools and equipment, not consumable products. The usage period can imply the time span during which a product can be utilized effectively, but does not specifically address storage and safety aspects like shelf life does. Therefore, shelf life is the most accurate term for the longevity of a product before it must be discarded.