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

The term that describes the amount of time a product can be kept before it is discarded is known as "shelf life." Shelf life refers to the period during which a food product maintains its intended quality and safety for consumption. It takes into account various factors, including storage conditions, packaging, and the nature of the product itself. Understanding shelf life is crucial in a kitchen environment, as it helps ensure food safety and minimizes waste by allowing staff to manage inventory effectively.

On the other hand, terms like "expiration date" and "consume by date" may relate to specific guidelines for individual products but do not broadly encapsulate the general concept of how long products remain good for use. Quality assurance refers to processes that ensure food products meet specific standards but does not directly measure how long those products last. Thus, "shelf life" is the most accurate and comprehensive term to define the longevity of products before they should be discarded.