The expiration date, which must appear on the packaging, is a determining factor in choosing products in good condition. The entity specified that not only food and medicines must have an expiration date, but also products with chemical components, such as cosmetics, paints, and personal hygiene and cleaning items. It was also requested to be especially careful with promotional offers, such as “2x1”, as in some cases they are used to get rid of merchandise close to its expiration date. The sale of expired products continues to be the most common violation detected in the country's commercial establishments, according to the Authority for Consumer Protection and Competition Defense (Acodeco). Official data reveals that during 2025, inspection operations allowed for the seizure of 182,726 expired items, an increase of 19,743 products compared to 2024, when 162,983 were confiscated. Among the merchandise removed from the market were food, medicines, and hygiene products, all considered a health risk to consumers. From Acodeco, it was pointed out that it is concerning that this practice continues, despite the seizures, the destruction of merchandise, and the sanctions applied to offending businesses. If the date is not visible or has scratches, smudges, or double marking, it is advisable not to buy the product. The entity reiterated the call to merchants to maintain strict inventory control and to remove products that are about to expire in a timely manner. The institution also reminded that no importer, distributor, or supplier can alter, hide, or modify essential information on the label, such as the expiration date, composition, origin, weight, or price. Other detected irregularities: Products without a visible expiration date, illegible dates or double price marking, spoiled food, lack of prices visible to the consumer. Complaint channels Consumers can report these anomalies through Sindi (WhatsApp and Telegram 6330-3333), on the official social networks @AcodecoPma (Facebook and X), or through the institutional website. Recommendations for consumers Acodeco recalled that checking the labeling is key when buying.
