Does Whey Protein Go Bad?

Protein powder is a dietary supplement that is made from whey, eggs, rice or soy, but it can be also made from the mix of all these ingredients. Protein powder is extremely popular among bodybuilders and athletes who are trying to build up the muscles.

Also, many people use protein powder for weight loss. One of the most popular protein powders is certainly whey protein. It is an excellent source of proteins that are easily digestible. You just need to add water and whey protein powder to a shaker and to shake it a little. Very soon your whey protein will be ready to use. But, there is a question, can whey protein go bad? The answer is yes. Even though it is a powder, it can go bad after a certain amount of time.

In this article you will find out more about whey protein and its shelf life. Also, we will tell you something more about its proper storage and how can you check if your protein powder is still good to use. If you also want to use a whey protein and you are not sure about some things, read on and you will find out soon.

What Is the Shelf Life of Whey Protein?

Although whey protein can go bad, its shelf life is pretty long if you store it properly. Actually, all protein powders are known to have a long shelf life if there are proper storage conditions.  On the containers of protein powders there is always a use by date, sell by date or expiration date. This date is usually one year from the date of its production, but the protein powder is safe also a few months after the date on the package.

Sometimes it may happen that the powder is still safe to consume, but it loses a lot of its quality and its nutritional value is reduced. The longer whey protein is stored, the less value it has. You should have in mind one more thing. As we have already said, many people use whey powder because they want to lose weight. But, over time some nutrients lose their potency and whey powder doesn’t have the same effects as before. It means that people might not lose the pounds if whey protein has been stored too long.

So, it is best to use it before its expiration date. But, if you use whey protein properly, you don’t have to worry. You will certainly use it before it starts to go bad.

How to Store Whey Protein Properly?

The way of the storage of whey protein is very easy. The most important is to keep the whey protein’s container sealed tightly. Never forget to put the lid on the container, because whey powder can easily absorb any moisture. The protein should be stored in an airtight glass or metal container, because water vapor and oxygen can easily get into the plastic packaging of whey protein.

Also, it is very important to keep this powder away from heat. It is best to keep the container in a dry and cool place. Some experts recommend to keep whey powder in the fridge. But, when you take it out from the fridge, it should be at room temperature for some time before you open it. Otherwise, moisture condensation is possible to happen in your protein.

How To Tell if Whey Protein Has Gone Bad?

As we have mentioned, whey protein has a long shelf life and sometimes it can be safe even after 2-3 years of storing. But, don’t use it if you are not sure it is safe. If you have found a container of whey protein powder somewhere in your pantry, you should be careful. First you should examine the appearance of the powder. If you notice that any moisture has got into the powder, throw it away.

Also, if whey protein smells bad, you should discard it. If there are no changes in the texture or in the smell of the whey powder protein, it is time to taste it. It is best to taste only a small amount. If the flavor has changed, it means that whey protein is spoiled. If it is fine, you can use it, but remember that whey protein may have lost some of its health benefits and nutrients.

Summary

As you should know by now, whey protein, like other protein powders, does go bad and it loses its nutritional value over time. It may not be spoiled but it will not be effective as earlier. This is especially important for bodybuilders and athletes who want to put on more muscles.

If you store whey protein properly, it will probably last for a year or so, but if you store it too long, always check it before consuming.

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