Shelf life and storage rules for whey protein

Protein is protein. Yes, the same protein that we need to maintain health and for muscle growth. Many athletes and people who want to stay in shape drink protein shakes.

But it happens that you find a forgotten product. The protein seems to have expired, but it looks and smells quite acceptable for consumption. In this article, we will tell you about the shelf life of protein powders and how you can extend it.

How is protein made?

As we said, protein is natural protein. On the other hand, in addition to it, protein powders may contain other natural components. If we talk about the most popular types of proteins, then it is worth mentioning whey protein (denoted as Whey protein). Also no less popular are Soy and Milk, respectively soy and milk types of protein. By the way, protein made from dairy products spoils faster, but remains popular because water is removed from it during production.

If you try to break down the process of making such protein powders into stages, you will get the following list:

1. At the first stage, the primary raw materials are fermented. Dairy products are sources of whey protein and casein. By the way, this composition is different from Whey protein.
2. Next, the whey protein is divided into fractions.
3. The concentrate drying stage, after which the protein is ready for sale and consumption.

It is worth saying that protein powder can have different percentages of protein.

What are the shelf life standards for whey proteins and what do they depend on?

Shelf life standards depend on the primary raw material and protein production technology. Taking this into account, the following types of protein supplements are distinguished:

1. Whey Protein. This is the most popular variety. The basis of the raw material is whey, from which fats and non-protein substances have been removed. Several versions of this product are produced: concentrate with protein content up to 90% (the rest is fatty residues and lactose), isolate (up to 95% protein) and the purest - hydrolyzate (at least 99% protein).
2. Milk protein. It is powdered, skimmed milk with vitamin supplements. The composition contains lactate.
3. Egg type. It is considered one of the most ideal options for amino acid content.
4. Protein of soy origin. It falls under the plant-based vegetarian category. It contains virtually no fat.
5. Meat hydrolyzate. This is a beef protein that contains peptides. It has a very high protein content.
6. Casein. It belongs to complex proteins, phosphoproteins. It is obtained by curdling milk.

Each of the above types of protein has its own specifics, and the expiration date is set by the manufacturer taking into account research results.

Table of terms for different brands

An analysis of various protein mixtures from different manufacturers is shown in the table. It lists the expiration dates established for popular representatives of various types of products.

Typical protein shelf life

Protein is a natural product. If it does not contain special additives, then you can use protein powder for not such a long time. Generally, the shelf life with the lid closed is six months to a maximum of three years. Of course, this figure varies depending on the manufacturer. The exact date of manufacture and expiration date can be seen directly on the packaging.

If you suddenly bought expired protein, you most likely will not get poisoned. On the other hand, if you use a product whose permitted use time has expired, the manufacturer does not guarantee effectiveness.

How to choose

A responsible manufacturer pays great attention to the quality of its products. It is ensured complete sterility and the absence of harmful impurities. Therefore, it is better to opt for products from time-tested companies. Even if they have a higher cost.

You should buy sports nutrition in specialized stores. The stores themselves must have a license to sell this type of product, and all relevant quality certificates.

The product packaging must not be damaged. And the date of manufacture and other information should be clearly visible. If there are only a couple of months left before the expiration date, it is better to purchase a more recent product.

Protein storage in stores is not always ensured properly. This should be taken into account when purchasing. There are also counterfeit products, which can be difficult to recognize visually.

At home, protein quality is checked using water. Natural protein tends to coagulate in boiling water and swell in water at room temperature.

Shelf life of the cocktail

Now it is worth considering another question. The shelf life of protein in an open or poorly closed jar is one thing. How long does a ready-made protein drink retain its properties?

If you are going to prepare the cocktail in advance, then at most this can be done in two or three hours, no more. Otherwise, for example, after five or six hours, the cocktail will definitely disappear. In a matter of hours, all useful components, including protein, are destroyed. Eating spoiled protein doesn't make much sense. Moreover, its taste changes dramatically. And the smell of the cocktail is quite unpleasant, so it is simply impossible to drink it expired.

There is a not entirely correct opinion that if you put the protein prepared for use in the refrigerator, then all the beneficial properties of the drink will be preserved. This is, of course, not true. If the cocktail is cooled, this will stop the destruction of the protein for a maximum of an hour. It is also necessary to observe the expiration date of the protein after preparation.

Storing protein after opening

The shelf life of the protein after opening the package and contact of the powder with air is significantly reduced and is two to three weeks for protein made in Europe, and a month for American. Long-term storage of an open package reduces the effectiveness of the product and leads to loss of beneficial qualities. There is no point in taking such a drug.

Store opened protein packaging in a dry and dark place at room temperature. Dry mixtures can be stored in the temperature range of +5-+25 degrees.

Avoid direct sunlight on the packaging and do not store it in close proximity to heat sources - radiators or stoves. When moisture gets into the mixtures, harmful bacteria begin to multiply and they quickly deteriorate. Taking such a product can definitely lead to poisoning.

Do not leave unsealed packages for a long time - food beetles and their larvae can easily grow in powders. If you are confused by the unpleasant smell of the mixture or it has changed color, the cocktail has a bitter aftertaste, do not consume this product under any circumstances.

What if the expiration date has expired?

Identifying expired protein is not always easy. Of course, if we are talking about a finished cocktail, then this can be understood by the taste - the drink becomes extremely unpleasant. In other cases, it is easier to rely on certain factors when making an assessment. Do not forget about where and when you stored the container with the powder. Look at the consistency of the product, monitor your own well-being.

By the way, the activity of microorganisms almost instantly affects the condition of the product. The consistency (and sometimes color) of the powder changes, and the taste and smell of the finished cocktail changes.

How to store gainer

The safe period for using gainer depends on several factors:

• manufacturer
• gainer composition
• type of packaging
• storage conditions
• state of the pack (open or closed)

To prevent the expensive mixture from losing its properties or becoming a source of digestive problems, it is strongly recommended that you follow all storage rules indicated on the packaging. It is recommended to store the sealed bag or jar of powder in a cool, dry place, such as a kitchen wall cabinet or pantry.

In a sealed package, almost nothing bad can happen to a gainer, so you can safely use it, even if the expiration date is coming to an end.

Some even try to take expired gainer, which was opened only after the expiration date. Judging by the reviews of such extreme sports enthusiasts, the gainer in this case does not lose its properties and does not harm the body.

A gainer is an energy drink that is characterized by the effect of a sharp increase in the body’s energy potential immediately after consumption.

Unopened packages can be stored for up to 2 years if the instructions on the packaging are followed. If they were not observed (there was high humidity or damage to the jar), then the powder may crystallize, or it may even harbor bacteria and fungi. In this case, it is prohibited to use the product! If you have already opened the pack, its shelf life is reduced several times. Again, you need to look at the packaging for the exact date. In no case should it be exceeded, since open, unsealed packaging cannot guarantee that the powder is not contaminated or has not lost its properties. The started product should be stored covered in the refrigerator.

What if you drink expired protein?

If you suddenly drink expired protein, then don’t worry too much. Most likely, using a powder that has passed its expiration date simply will not have any effect.

If you suddenly notice mold or a change in the color of the powder (for example, it turns yellow), you should immediately throw away the product. If you have drunk a cocktail that shows signs of bacterial infection, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. After all, consuming a spoiled product can lead to irreparable consequences. Experts say that you should not use protein after the due date.

How to tell if protein has gone bad

The product may become unusable much earlier than the time stated by the manufacturer. This occurs when the storage conditions of the food additive are not met.

A spoiled composition, or a protein that has expired, has the following symptoms:

• change in white color towards transparency;
• the appearance of another structure;
• development of an unpleasant, rotten odor;
• mold formation on the surface of the product.

Eating spoiled protein can lead to poisoning and digestive upset, as well as cause allergic reactions of varying degrees.

How to check the authenticity of a protein?

Today, sports nutrition is gaining popularity, which is why many fakes are appearing. Recently, cases have become more frequent when a purchased protein drug turns out to be counterfeit. Fortunately, it doesn't cause any harm to your health, but it does hurt your wallet and doesn't live up to your expectations.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=WCBHBdRUoWY

It is quite difficult to distinguish real protein from ordinary flour, and chemical analysis of the powder in a special laboratory will cost you a considerable amount. This is usually what scammers count on

What should you pay special attention to and how to check the purchased protein?

The analysis of the protein complex should begin at the store window, with a detailed study of the appearance of the packaging. The pack must be sealed tightly. Plastic packages are wrapped using a special wide film. There should be no breaks in the film or label

Particular attention should be paid to the expiration date indicated on the drug. We advise you not to purchase sports nutrition if the expiration date is approaching, since storage conditions in the store may differ significantly from those recommended

Proteins and carbohydrates are substances that dissolve in water and have different properties, they all manifest themselves differently in water. Once in a hot liquid, the proteins coagulate into lumps. Knowing about these properties, you can independently check the protein’s naturalness at home.

• Tip 1: after purchasing, place a small amount of protein in warm water. Real protein must coagulate.
• 2nd tip: dilute twenty grams of protein powder with one hundred milligrams of water: you should get a mixture similar to cottage cheese. Protein has the property of swelling in water, but flour does not give such thickness.

Shelf life of diluted cocktail

The diluted protein shake can be stored for 2-3 hours at room temperature. In summer, in hot weather - no more than 1 hour, and in the refrigerator for about 5 hours.

The powder concentrate is intended for immediate use after preparation. If you need to drink a portion during the day, it is better to pour the powder into a dry shaker and take it with you, taking the water separately. At the right time, add water to the shaker, stir and drink.

The more time the protein is in the form of a cocktail, the less nutritional properties it becomes.

To solve this problem, liquid forms are produced in the form of ampoules and bottles. All of them are divided into single portions to eliminate the issue of storing the opened powder.

If you don't have the ability to dilute your protein immediately before use, this may be a better option for you.

What should you mix protein with?

You can have it with milk, but it’s best with water. Due to milk, fast protein will be absorbed more slowly, because milk contains predominantly slow protein – casein. There are food lovers who dilute protein even in kefir, yogurt, fermented baked milk or even cream! In this case, not only does the calorie content of the original product increase, but also in the case of dilution in fermented milk drinks with live microflora, the risk of protein spoilage increases, so it must be consumed immediately after preparation!

Storing domestic sprats

Many housewives make sprats themselves. At the same time, the taste of the fish is slightly different, but this product also contains more benefits. Due to a lesser degree of heat treatment, such canned food retains more nutrients.

You can preserve already smoked fish, which are sold in markets. It looks like a factory-made product, but is not sufficiently heat treated. Therefore, it is better to find a recipe in which the fish is stewed for more time. And then they are rolled into jars with the required amount of hot oil.

The raw fish is cleaned of its entrails, its heads are separated, and it is given a golden hue using black tea. The aroma is obtained by processing with liquid smoke. Such fish can be stored after exposure to high temperature in glass containers filled with a sufficient amount of oil. If you do not seal them hermetically, the shelf life of sprats prepared in this way will be about 3-5 days.

You should know that storing sprats in a warm place after opening the jar, as well as home-cooked products, is strictly prohibited.

Storing sprat in the freezer will cause the product to lose its dense structure (become like porridge). This is due to the critically low temperature for its storage.

What happens if you use a delay

It is believed that expired matrix protein does not cause any harm to the body. It is sold at a significantly reduced price, which creates increased demand. According to reviews on the forums, many inexperienced athletes buy it on sale, not wanting to understand that the expiration date has expired and it is dangerous for the body.

An expired additive can be compared to the most complex analogue of rotten meat or sour milk. Taking it overdue will lead to intestinal disorders. The most common are flatulence and diarrhea.

If the storage period stated by the manufacturer has expired and 1 year has passed since then, it is better not to use the additive.

Although reviews on forums say that no side effects are observed.

Six months have passed since lactomin 80 was opened. I drank an old cocktail and nothing happened to my stomach

But you should remember that jokes with health are bad, and such a drink can pose a real threat to the body and will definitely not make you stronger and more energetic.

How and where to store protein correctly?

Protein, like most foods, has an expiration date.

All products consumed internally are subject to control according to SanPiN 2.3.2.1324-03.

storage factors have an important impact .

If you store protein improperly , the shelf life will expire faster than stated on the package.

An article about the expiration date of creatine and how to store it.

Also, if you follow some rules, protein can be safely stored longer :

• The basic rule is to place the container with the substance in a dry place;
• An increased level of humidity is a catalyst for bacteria that accidentally enter the container;
• Bright sunlight is an undesirable storage condition. The most suitable air temperature is +20 degrees.

What is the shelf life in a closed container?

It is important to choose a quality product from a trusted manufacturer. As with any product, the shelf life of stimulating powder is limited .

An important factor influencing the storage time of protein is the country in which it was produced.

The average permissible storage duration is from six months to several years .

European ones are usually stored for no more than two years, those made in the USA - no more than three. All additives in liquid form are stored for no more than a month .

Whey protein does not have a long shelf life. Closed sealed packaging provides 365 days of storage. The popular Whey Gold Standard brand has a two-year shelf life when unopened.

In our article, how long can you store cheese in the refrigerator.

How long is it good for after opening the package?

After breaking the seal of the package, the shelf life of the powder is significantly reduced :

1. European product remains good for 2-3 weeks;
2. American - about a month.

Prolonged storage of an open package negates the effectiveness of the drug, so at best it will do neither harm nor benefit.

recommended to store opened packaging in a dry and dark place at a temperature of +5 to +25 degrees. Do not store near heat sources - stove and radiator.

The ingress of moisture leads to the activation of harmful bacteria, which is why consuming such a mixture can cause poisoning.

You can learn about the expiration dates and storage rules for butter here.

Time of use in diluted form

Maintaining room temperature allows you to store the dissolved protein for 3-4 hours , the refrigerator extends this period by another hour.

To protect yourself from poisoning, the mixture should be consumed immediately after preparation. In addition, expired protein bitter and can cause bad breath.

Among the signs that a mixture is unsuitable for consumption can also be its specific odor and color change .

It is strictly forbidden to use a product with such symptoms.

Pitfalls when choosing a protein

special attention is paid to sterility, composition and the presence of preservatives.

The basic rule, following which will protect you from a low-quality product, is to buy supplements from trusted manufacturers in sports nutrition stores.

What is the shelf life of chicken and quail eggs, read here.

You should also inspect the packaging before purchasing - it should not be damaged. Do not hesitate to check the expiration date - even if it has not yet expired, but there is little time left before then, it is better to refuse the purchase.

Remember that packages on store shelves may not be stored as specified in the requirements. Counterfeits are also common - on the outside it is difficult to distinguish dry protein from simple flour, which has long been adopted by swindlers.

At home, a fake can be recognized using water.

In boiling water, the protein coagulates . And in ordinary water, protein has the ability to swell.

Consumption of expired food – dangerous or not?

There is an opinion that protein that is less than a year expired is harmless to the body.

By the way, there is no benefit . But the price is much lower, which creates a high demand for the product.

Read about the conditions for keeping fresh, frozen and chilled fish here.

Expired protein is a more complex analogue of rotten meat or sour milk.

The digestive system will clearly not be happy with the intake, which will cause various disorders. The most common of them are diarrhea and flatulence .

Watch also the video about protein expiration dates:

Author of the article - Kolkovsky Yuri Sergeevich