Has your protein powder expired? Here’s why you need to throw it out right now (2024)
If you are consuming whey protein post-workout then be aware of its shelf life. Consuming it after its expiration could have some serious repercussions for your health.
If you are someone who works out regularly, you probably already know the importance of post-workout protein consumption. It goes without saying that if you want better recovery for your muscles then protein is a must. At this point of time, the market is flooded with options and you can choose one according to your preference. What you do need to keep in mind is that the protein should not have reached its expiration date.
You might be surrounded by a lot of gym freaks who will suggest that consuming protein for a few months after it’s expiry is totally cool. Well, that is a complete lie. Consuming protein after a workout helps with:
According to a study published in the Journal of Dairy Science, protein usually expires after 12 months from its manufacture. But, there are some that can last for as long as 19 months, depending on the brand and food content.
It is also believed that the temperature at which you store it and humidity level have a role to play in early expiration of whey protein.
Identifying if the protein has reached its expiry
Although there is a date on the product indicating its shelf life, there could be a scenario where the company offers an extended expiry date. Also, you should also be adept to identify if the protein has gone bad before reaching its expiry date and the following signals will help you do that:
It smells different than usual or smells pungent; and/or
It shows a change in color.
In case you come across any of these signs, then you know that your protein is spoiled and it is in the best interest of your health to get rid of it.
Side-effects of consuming expired protein
There could be various adverse reactions to consuming expired protein, such as:
1. Indigestion and bloating
Bacterial and fungal growth can lead to protein’s expiration and if you consume it, then your stomach’s biome is disrupted. This could cause your gut health to deteriorate, making you develop gastric issues such as gas, bloating and pain in the abdomen.
2. Muscle wear and tear
Since expired protein will offer no benefits towards muscle development and maintenance, it’s natural that muscle recovery will not take place. This will cause wear and tear and lead to a decline in muscle mass concentration and overall bodily strength.
3. Weight gain
Protein helps in breaking down fat but unfortunately expired protein won’t provide you with that benefit. Therefore, you might just end up gaining weight instead of losing when consuming expired protein.
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It might not mix as well, have a slightly altered flavor, or lose some of its protein content. In essence, it's like sipping a not-so-fresh protein shake. However, if the powder smells off, looks significantly different or has developed an odd texture, it's best to play it safe and discard it.”
It's safe to consume your protein powder after the expiration date, unless it shows signs of spoilage like rancidity. However, even if your protein powder doesn't show any signs that it's gone bad after the expiration date, its nutritional quality may still be compromised.
It's safe to consume your protein powder after the expiration date, unless it shows signs of spoilage like rancidity. However, even if your protein powder doesn't show any signs that it's gone bad after the expiration date, its nutritional quality may still be compromised.
Meaning, after this date, the product is generally safe to consume but can be lower in protein content due to degradation of the product.” Henigan says that most research indicates if your protein powder is properly stored (no extreme temperatures or humidity), it should be safe to consume for up to two years.
So, is it safe to whip up a protein shake using expired powder? In short, yes it is. But if the protein product, whether it's whey or vegan, smells or tastes off, or it's been a few months since its use-by date, treat yourself to a fresh pack and follow the storage instructions to the letter, to ensure its longevity.
High doses can cause some side effects such as increased bowel movements, acne, nausea, thirst, bloating, reduced appetite, tiredness, and headache. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if whey protein is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding.
Bottom line: Most vitamins are considered safe for up to two years past their expiration date (unless they contain mold), but may become less potent over time. Pregnant women and people in need of regular supplementation due to deficiency should talk to their doctor before relying on expired vitamins.
The bottom line is that whey protein, a fast-acting protein, digests at 10 grams per hour. Consume 30 grams from a whey protein shake and after 3 hours it's digested. Casein protein, a slow-acting protein, digests at half the speed of whey - 6 grams per hour.
Protein powder can help meet daily nutrition needs but don't use it excessively or as a substitute for real food. Too much can upset your stomach and may affect kidney health in some people.
The ideal temperature range for storing protein powder is between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid storing it near appliances or in a humid environment, as it can cause condensation and spoil the protein powder storage well.
The body can't store protein - unlike other nutrients like carbohydrates and fats, your body doesn't 'build up' protein over time. The lifespan of a protein in the body is approximately 2 days. That means that a truly protein-perfect diet has to include regular (daily) intake of protein-supplying foods (source).
However, taking protein powder well after it expires can cause the supplement to lose some of its nutritional properties and lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas and upset stomach. If your protein powder has expired, examine it for unusual odors, discoloration, clumping and off taste.
How many hours is a refrigerated protein shake good for? "A refrigerated homemade shake can be kept safely for 72 hours," Blatner says. "However, because separation happens, you'll need to re-blend or shake before drinking.
Although consuming a slightly expired protein bar is not usually dangerous, prolonged periods past the expiration date can lead to a decrease in these bars' ability to deliver the intended health benefits.
Because it is a best before date and not an expiry date it is possible that the product could still be suitable for consumption after the stated date. However, as manufacturers we cannot guarantee the quality of our products if consumed after the best before date.
Introduction: My name is Patricia Veum II, I am a vast, combative, smiling, famous, inexpensive, zealous, sparkling person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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