Across the UAE, a quiet shift is happening in how households and businesses think about everyday shopping. Near-expiry products—items approaching their “best before” or “use by” date—are moving from the clearance corner to center stage, thanks to tighter budgets, eco-conscious consumers, and platforms that make finding quality deals simple and safe. The result? Less waste, more value, and a shopping habit that makes sense for wallets and the planet.
What Counts as “Near-Expiry”?
Near-expiry typically means packaged goods that are weeks—or sometimes days—away from their date label. It’s important to distinguish:
- “Best before” dates indicate peak quality. Foods are often safe after this date if properly stored, though texture or flavor can decline.
- “Use by” dates are about safety, especially for highly perishable items like fresh dairy or ready-to-eat meals. These should not be consumed after the date.
Non-food items (like cleaning products, cosmetics, and personal care) may also be near-expiry, which usually affects effectiveness rather than safety.
Why the UAE is Embracing Near-Expiry Deals
- Household savings: Families can shave 20–70% off grocery and personal care bills by timing purchases to match immediate consumption.
- Food-waste reduction: The UAE has ambitious sustainability goals. Choosing near-expiry items diverts usable products from landfills and supports a circular economy.
- Retail efficiency: Outlets and brands improve stock turnover, free up shelf space, and build goodwill by offering transparent discounts on short-dated items.
Safety First: How to Shop Smart
- Check the label type: Prioritize “best before” items when you need flexibility. Only buy “use by” products if you’ll consume them immediately.
- Inspect packaging: Avoid dented cans, broken seals, or compromised wraps.
- Plan portions: Buy what you can eat or use within the remaining shelf life.
- Store correctly: Observe temperature and storage instructions—chilled means chilled.
- Know the product: Dry goods, snacks, and pantry staples are perfect candidates for near-expiry savings; ultra-perishables require more care.
Beyond Food: Everyday Essentials
Vitamins, skincare, detergents, and pet care items also appear in near-expiry sections. For these, the concern is potency rather than safety. If you’ll use them soon, short-dated stock can be a great deal.
The Role of Marketplaces
Discoverability is the final piece of the puzzle. Dedicated marketplaces aggregate near-expiry offers across categories, making it easy to compare prices and buy with confidence. Platforms like ThrowMeNot curate short-dated essentials from trusted sellers, helping shoppers stretch their budgets while tackling waste at scale.
Tips for Retailers and Brands
- Segment and label clearly: Transparency builds trust and speeds decisions.
- Bundle smartly: Multipacks aligned to typical weekly use encourage responsible buying.
- Educate customers: Clear guidance on storage and date labels reduces anxiety and returns.
- Track and learn: Use data to predict demand and minimize overstock upstream.
A Small Switch, A Big Impact
Near-expiry shopping isn’t just a trend; it’s a mindset shift. By matching real-time needs with short-dated stock, UAE consumers can cut costs without compromising quality, retailers can unlock value from inventory that might otherwise go to waste, and together we can push forward a culture of conscious consumption. Next time you shop, scan the near-expiry section—your budget (and the environment) will thank you.
