Master Data is similar to a physical product produced and sold by a company except...

Master Data, similar to a physical product, must meet certain requirements such as fitting consumers' needs, needing information about its characteristics, impacting business when unavailable, and having a useful lifespan. However, unlike physical products, Master Data does not deplete when pulled from inventory. Master Data remains available for use even after being accessed multiple times, as it is digital information that can be replicated and shared without loss.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge (2nd Edition), Chapter 11: Reference and Master Data Management.

"Master Data Management and Data Governance" by Alex Berson and Larry Dubov.