Everything possible and impossible has already been written about protein supplements. After all, we've covered them extensively too - whether in our independent whey protein test or in various expert reviews.
However, I have yet to come across any article that addresses the issue of expired proteins. So let's take a look at it in the following article.
How to recognize an expired protein?
The very first important question is how to actually recognize an expired protein. And it's not a simple question. The most important indicator should be the best before date, which by law must be indicated on every shelf-life food.
If you've already exceeded it and opened the protein, you probably won't be able to tell anything significant. As it is a powder that does not contain water, it cannot harbour mould or other bacteria, as these need moisture to form.
Because of the lack of moisture, the protein should not be corroded or otherwise damaged.
There is, however, a way to identify a spoiled protein. And it's called the Maillard reaction. In most protein preparations, there is a residue of milk sugar left over from when the whey was extracted from the milk. And it's the lactose that starts to react with the protein, sort of degrading one of the key amino acids, namely lysine. At first glance, this reaction should appear as a discolouration (fading) of the protein.
Is it safe to use expired protein?
It most likely is. There is really little risk of bacteria or other spoilage if the protein has been sealed and stored properly all the time. However, it depends on the composition of the protein in question - added substances (such as vegetable fats, etc.) can adversely affect the quality of the expired protein.
The only disadvantage you will notice in almost all cases will be a worse taste. To minimize the risk of this negative effect, store the protein in a cool, dark and dry place.
When you get to expired protein, mix one serving in a small amount of water and try to focus on the smell of the protein before consuming it. If you don't smell anything, it's best to avoid eating it.
Conclusion
Every time a question about taking expired protein comes up in a social media discussion, there's a person who will answer: "Try it and see.". And that's exactly what we would be inclined to do.
If the protein smells completely natural when you stir it, it's 99% fine and you can drink it without worry. The worst thing that can happen after consuming expired protein is minor intestinal upset.
In this case, we of course recommend throwing the protein away and reaching for a new one, such as CFM Evolution, which is one of our top-rated proteins at a good price.
NEXT: Does Coca Cola Light & Zero fit into my diet?
Do you have other expired supplements at home?
Why can you trust us?
Hey! Hey! I'm Mirek and I've been working at World Fitness almost since the beginning, except for a small break. But before that I lived only in the gym for a few years, doing deadlifts and power triathlon, going to competitions and winning a few medals.
Probably the one I value the most is the national record in the WUAP federation. But besides working out, I was also interested in food and supplements, I liked to enjoy my free timeI used to read different researches and professional books in my free time to know as much as possible.