Remember that protein powder, like most food products, usually has a best by date and not a use by date. Because of this distinction, you may safely use protein powder to supplement your meals even after the best by date has lapsed. Please read the next sections for indications of bad protein powder and other precautions of using this type of product beyond the suggested best-by date.

How to tell if Protein Powder is bad, rotten or spoiled?

Practicing proper hygiene and food safety techniques will help prevent foodborne illness.

A common question is how to tell if protein powder is bad? Although not a perfect test, and probably not the one you would like to hear, is that your sense of taste is the best indicator when protein powder is going bad. A changed or fading flavor is the first indication that protein powder is going bad. There may also be an "off" smell when you open the container, depending on the brand and type of protein used for the powder.

Although the aging powder is not dangerous, it does become less beneficial. Since proteins break down as they age, and the reason that most people consume the powder is to add protein to their diet, the benefits of consumption also diminish with the passage of too much time.

There are, of course, certain health risks associated with spoiled foods so always remember to practice food safety and enjoy your foods before their shelf life has expired!

How to store Protein Powder to extend its shelf life?

Store protein powder in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Re-seal it properly after each use. Always use a clean spoon to remove the powder that you need for each use in order to avoid cross contamination. Storing protein powder in this fashion will help keep out moisture and other contaminants. Do not store it in the refrigerator where it could possibly absorb moisture. As long as the product is kept dry, it will have little chance of absorbing bacteria and/or growing mold.

Freezing is not recommended because after freezing and thawing the powder can absorb moisture.

Some benefits of proper food storage include eating healthier, cutting food costs and helping the environment by avoiding waste.

How to use extra before your Protein Powder goes bad?

If your protein powder is nearing its shelf life, then try using it as an addition into pancake batter and other baked good recipes. Although if it is already to the point where the taste off, then you will just ruin your recipe.

How long is Protein Powder good for when prepared in a dish?

How long is protein powder good for? How long does protein powder last? That depends. How long does milk last? In general, protein powder will not last any longer than the quickest expiring ingredient in the recipe.

What are our shelf life resources?

In determining how long Protein Powder lasts, our content incorporates research from multiple resources, including the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food & Drug Administration. In addition, we scoured the web for informative articles and reports related to food safety, food storage and the shelf life of Protein Powder.

*An important note about expiration dates...

Although the Protein Powder shelf life information on Eat By Date is generally reliable, please remember that individual cases will vary and that our advice should only be taken as an opinion and not a replacement for your health care professional. Please eat responsibly!