Protein powders offer a quick and effective way to optimize the efforts you put into your workouts. Whether you’re planning to work on your summer bod or stock up on a bulk sale of your favorite protein supplement, a key question to consider is how long your protein powder will last.

The answer to this question seems rather simple if your product has an expiration date, but even then, other factors can affect how long it will actually be before your protein powder goes bad.

The quick answer is that, yes, all protein powders expire but how quickly depends on multiple factors. The date listed on the package is a guideline, generally referring to how long the product will retain its optimal quality -- not when it becomes harmful. This “best by” date is partially based on the types of ingredients in the supplement. Typically, protein powder is safe to consume even past the expiration date, but some of the ingredients may lose their potency, and you should also be sure to consume your protein supplement within an hour after it’s mixed for optimal results.

To ensure your protein powder is still safe to use, you should consider other factors aside from an expiration date to determine the shelf life of your product. Factors to determine if your protein powder is still safe to consume include the length of time you’ve had the product, how it’s been stored, and its composition.

WHEN HAS MY PROTEIN POWDER EXPIRED?

Generally, expiration dates are an estimate, so how long protein powder lasts can vary. The expiration date doesn’t automatically mean that your protein powder is bad or unsafe to use. In fact, since protein powder is dry, the chances of it going rancid or growing bacteria are small – unless you are storing it in a steamy or humid place. Still, there are other things to consider.  

While most protein powders will not make you sick if you consume them after the “best by” date, they may not maintain their highest rate of potency or effectiveness, so for best optimization try to adhere to “best by” packaging suggestions.

Key factors when considering how long protein powders are good for stem from the ingredients in your protein powder. Certain additives such as natural and artificial flavors, flavor protectors and enhancers, and thickening agents increase the shelf life of your product. These factors create some of the guidelines for expiration dates.

While not all protein powders are created equal, as far as shelf life is concerned, it is safe to consider all of the following ingredients the same: 

• Egg
• Whey
• Casein
• Pea
• Soy

 In most cases, products contain one source of protein but in some instances, multiple sources are used to offer price alternatives or to alter the absorption rate.

It is also an important reminder to consume your shake shortly after mixing it or store it in a refrigerator for up to an hour. It is most effective if consumed shortly after mixing. 

PROTEIN POWDER STORAGE BEST PRACTICES   

While you can control when you consume your protein powder, you can also control how it is stored to ensure optimal shelf life and quality.

How long your protein powder lasts first depends on how it is stored. Because protein powder is a dry substance, it is susceptible to moisture. If the powder is exposed to moisture because of an open package or container, clumps will form, and if there is enough water, the protein powder will go bad. Of course, the powder can form some clumps on its own, but if they are dry, you can easily break them down with a fork. Such clumps are not harmful in any way. Overall, it is essential to store your protein powder in a cool, dry place away from high temperature and humidity.

Packaging may vary with different protein powder brands. Some powders come in sealed bags, but if your powder is not in a sealed package, transferring it to a big plastic jar that is both easy to open and to seal is best for proper storage.

Because protein powder is a dry substance, it is susceptible to moisture. If the powder is exposed to moisture from an open package or container, clumps will form, and if there is enough water, the protein power will go bad. Therefore, it is essential to store your protein powder in a cool, dry place away from high temperature and humidity.

WHAT INGREDIENTS SHOULD I WORRY ABOUT SPOILING? 

Specifically, Transformation Protein, although a more complete protein than some of the other types, has a similar shelf life to other brands. With 30 grams of protein per serving, transformation protein has the perfect blend of collagen peptide, egg white, and plant proteins to achieve the ideal amino-acid profile. Transformation Protein with natural egg white, collagen, pea and rice protein will last about the same as other brands. Its formula aims to help athletes achieve the ideal amino acid profile to help you build muscle quicker and recover faster.

By following recommended guidelines for shelf life, you can get the ultimate benefits from Transformation Protein because it is amino optimized. Transformation Protein is comprised of 9 essential amino acids that must be present in the right amount and ratio of each serving for optimal body composition. If you fall short of this, you’re wasting both your money and your muscles.

We keep it clean. No dairy, soy, gluten or other common allergic or inflammation-causing ingredients like processed oils and sweeteners.

We add the best, optimizing nutrients to the formula for increased muscle and boost metabolism including

- Natural MCT oil for increased use of fat for fuel

- Key digestive enzymes and probiotics to improve the digestion and absorption of your protein

- Low glycemic carbs and other natural nutrients for reduced insulin response

- A full meal’s serving of essential daily vitamins and minerals

Don’t waste your time in the gym with expired or subpar protein. Follow storage guidelines and “best by” dates to ensure you’re getting the best benefits from your product.