Protein is a protein. Yes, the same protein that we need to maintain health and for muscle growth. Many athletes and people who want to stay fit drink protein shakes.
But it happens that you find a forgotten product. The shelf life of the protein seems to have expired, but in appearance and smell it seems quite acceptable for use. In this article, we will tell you about the shelf life of protein powders and how to extend it.
How to make protein?
As we said, protein is a natural protein. On the other hand, in addition to it, other natural components may also be contained in protein powders. If we talk about the most popular types of proteins, then it is worth mentioning whey protein (referred to as Whey protein). No less popular are Soy and Milk, respectively, soy and milk types of protein. By the way, protein, which is made from dairy products, spoils faster, but remains popular, since water is removed from production.
If you try to decompose the manufacturing process of such protein powders in stages, you get the following list:
- At the first stage, fermentation of primary raw materials occurs. Dairy products are sources of whey protein and casein. This composition, by the way, is characterized by Whey protein.
- Next, whey protein is separated into fractions.
- The stage of drying the concentrate, after which the protein is ready for sale and use.
It is worth saying that protein powder can have different percentages of protein.
Typical Protein Shelf Life
Protein is a natural product. If it does not contain special additives, then you can use protein powder for a not so long time. Typically, a shelf life with a closed lid ranges from six months to a maximum of three years. Of course, this indicator varies depending on the manufacturer. The exact manufacturing date and expiration date can be seen directly on the packaging.
If you suddenly bought an expired protein, then most likely, do not get poisoned. On the other hand, if you use a product whose permitted use time has expired, then the manufacturer does not guarantee effectiveness.
Protein shelf life after opening the package
Basically, an open protein can is about two weeks old. Further, the effect of protein intake is most likely not to be. But some research and the experience of people who use protein shows that open packaging of protein can retain its properties throughout the year. But this statement is controversial. Therefore, it is easier not to torment the body and, to the delight of the muscles, acquire a new package.
Cocktail Shelf Life
Now it is worth considering another question. The shelf life of a protein in an open or poorly closed jar is one thing. How long does a ready-made protein drink keep its properties?
If you are going to prepare a cocktail in advance, then the maximum 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 the beneficial components, including protein, are destroyed. Receiving spoiled protein does not make much sense. Moreover, his taste qualities change dramatically. And the smell of the cocktail is rather unpleasant, so it’s simply impossible to drink it overdue.
There is a misconception that if you put the protein, prepared for use, in the refrigerator, then all the beneficial properties of the drink are preserved. This, of course, is not so. If the cocktail is cooled, then this will stop protein breakdown for a maximum of an hour. Following the shelf life of the protein after preparation is also necessary.
How to store protein?
Keeping the protein right is very important. After all, if you do not pay attention to the conditions and environmental factors, the product can deteriorate much faster than indicated on the package. By the way, sometimes with proper storage, you can slightly extend the official shelf life.
The most important thing during storage is to keep the powder container in a dry place. At high humidity, bacteria that accidentally enter the product begin to multiply actively. Protein can not be stored in moist places - this must be remembered.
It is also worth avoiding direct sunlight. The optimum temperature for storage is about twenty degrees.
If we are talking about an opened jar or package, you must always carefully close the container. Check the lid every time, because otherwise the same bacteria and other potentially dangerous microorganisms may get into the powder. In such cases, the shelf life of the protein after opening is dramatically reduced.
If expired?
Determining expired protein is not always easy. Of course, if we are talking about a ready-made cocktail, then you can understand it to your taste - the drink becomes extremely unpleasant. In other cases, the assessment is easier to rely on certain factors. Do not forget about where and when you stored the powder container. Look at the consistency of the product, watch your own health.
By the way, the activity of microorganisms almost instantly affects the condition of the product. The consistency (and sometimes color) of the powder changes, the taste and smell of the finished cocktail changes.
Should I drink an expired protein?
If you suddenly drank expired protein, then do not worry much. Most likely, the use of a powder with an expired shelf life simply will not give any effect.
If you suddenly notice a mold or a change in the color of the powder (for example, it turns yellow), then you need to immediately throw away the goods. In the event that you drank a cocktail that has signs of infection with bacteria, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. After all, the use of a spoiled product can lead to irreparable consequences. Experts say that it is not worth using protein after the deadline.
Conclusion
Of course, protein is a natural product. As you know, natural protein substances deteriorate much faster than "chemistry". When you opened the can of powder, then you need to use it for two weeks. In the future, the protein (after the expiration date) is unlikely to give any result, and it is not worth risking your health.