---
title: "Retained samples: who keeps what, and for how long? — LiangduSyrup"
url: "https://liangdusyrup.com/forum/retained-samples-who-keeps-what-and-for-how-long/"
date: 2026-08-21
---

# Retained samples: who keeps what, and for how long?

Retained samples sound simple until a dispute lands. 🧪 Do you keep product samples, and how long?

Our rule: one sealed retail pack + one COA per batch, kept 24 months, photographed with the batch code visible. It has resolved two disputes without a lawyer. What do you store, and where?

![retained samples](https://liangdusyrup.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_20230730_152440-scaled-1.jpg)

ItemRetentionPurposeSealed retail pack24 monthsIdentity of batchCOA + packing list24 monthsPaper trailPhoto w/ batch codeIndefiniteDispute evidenceFrozen referenceOptionalSensory recallHas retention ever saved you? Share the story. 💬