Final answer:
An expiration date is given to a product based on factors like the sterilization method, duration of storage, and environmental conditions, which influence the product's stability and safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The expiration date of a product is typically assigned due to various factors that may impact the safety and efficacy of the product over time. While manufacturer's preference could play a minor role, scientifically valid reasons for an expiration date usually stem from factors such as the sterilization method used, the duration of storage, and the environmental conditions that the product will be exposed to. All of these factors can influence the stability of a product and its ability to perform as intended without causing harm to the user.