Best Before Dates Explained
Much like food items, sport supplements have a best before date. In the sports nutrition world expiration and best before dates serve as a guideline for how long a product remains potent and effective. However, if a product has a best before on Sept 1, 2026 will it still be good Sept 2, 2026? Of course it will. In fact, many products continue to hold their nutritional value years past their "best before date." as that is exactly what it is a "BEST BEFORE" date.
The information provided here explains the details of best before dates particular to the type of dietary supplement. Each supplement will vary on product efficacy, depending on the manufacturer and the quality of raw materials used.
Herbal Products
Herbal products will slowly weaken with age; however, they maintain potency for approximately 3 years following production. Product efficacy diminishes approximately 2 years following best before dates.
Vitamin Mineral Supplements
Vitamin and mineral supplements will slowly weaken with age. Quality B vitamins do not sustain potency following the best before date; however, most all other vitamin supplements maintain efficacy approximately 2 years following the best before date.
Enzymes
Enzymes will slowly weaken with age. They will maintain potency approximately 1 year past the best before date.
Protein and Amino Acids
Protein and Amino acid supplements slowly weaken with age. Quality protein and amino acid supplements will maintain potency approximately 1 to 2 years past best before date.
Glandular Supplements
Glandular supplements are more delicate than vitamins. They maintain potency approximately 1 year past the best before date. In order to optimize shelf-life, glandular supplements should be stored in cool temperatures.
Juices and Liquid
Liquid supplements will slowly weaken with age; however, they will maintain efficacy approximately 1 year past the best before date.
How to Extend the Life of Supplements
The higher the quality and grade of a particular supplement, the longer it will maintain potency following the expiration date. Do not refrigerate supplements unless the label advises to do so. All drugs and vitamin supplements should be stored in airtight containers. Keep all dietary supplements away from light, moisture, and heat.