What does the expiration date on a product label signify?

The expiration date on a product label indicates the end of the product's useful life. This date signifies the time until which the manufacturer can guarantee the product's safety and efficacy when stored under recommended conditions. After this date, the product may not perform as intended and could potentially pose safety risks or decrease in quality. Therefore, it is crucial for consumers and healthcare providers to adhere to this date to ensure that they are using products that are effective and safe.

The other options highlight different aspects of product labeling but do not accurately capture the purpose of the expiration date. The date of manufacture refers to when the product was made and is relevant for tracking shelf life but is not the same as the expiration date. The regulatory approval date is the date when a product was approved for market release, which is a separate aspect of compliance and does not help the user understand the product's usability timeline. The warranty period relates to the assurance provided by the manufacturer regarding the quality and functionality of the product for a specific duration, which again is distinct from the expiration date that directly addresses product safety and effectiveness.