Under the EU Cosmetics Regulation, products with a minimum durability of more than 30 months show the period after opening instead of a best-before date, while products with a durability of 30 months or less carry a best-before date. The period is shown by the open jar symbol followed by a number of months, for example 12M.

Why it matters for labeling

The period should match the product's stability data, and a PAO should be used only where it is the right option. Both kinds of error look fine in a visual check, because the symbol is present and looks correct.

Common mistakes

  • A PAO period that doesn't match the stability data
  • A PAO symbol on a product that should carry a best-before date
  • The symbol or number missing from some language or market variants
  • A formula change without a review of the period

Sources