What defines the shelf life of commercial condiments?

The shelf life of commercial condiments is determined by ingredients, preservatives, and packaging, with regional standards varying: in warm climates like Southeast Asia, condiments often have shorter shelf lives (6-12 months) due to heat acceleration, while in temperate regions like Europe, 12-24 months is common. Acidic condiments (e.g., vinegar-based sauces) last longer than creamy ones (e.g., mayonnaise), which require stricter storage. Most brands standardize around 12-18 months globally, balancing product stability with consumer turnover rates.