How Long Do Printer Cartridges Last?

[ask100]

I've been offered to buy some original HP laser printer toners which I am told are in their sealed bags and which are up to six years old.
Does anyone know if they are likely to have deteriorated during this period?
They have no sell by dates on them.

[Gavmacp]

Personally there are times when you try and save a penny and it costs you a £. Would not touch them.

[heathfield]

From HP Support...

"Date of Manufacture on Packaging

The date of manufacture on the toner cartridge box is intended for HP internal processes and may be required to comply with regulatory standards in certain countries. The date of manufacture is not an expiration or “use before�? date. There is no expiration date for the use of HP toner cartridges."