Ask yourself one question: Is this merch something I'll use, or something I'll display?

If you'll use it—drink from the mug, wear the shirt—go with Path A. The roast date won't change how it performs.

If you'll display it, or if it's part of a serious collection, lean toward Path B. The roast date becomes part of the item's story, and verifying it adds to the piece's authenticity.

Still unsure? Split the difference. Buy what you love, but take thirty seconds to check that the date isn't obviously wrong or missing. If a product claims to be fresh-roasted but the date is six months old, that's a red flag worth noticing.