Understanding Best Before & Expiry Dates
Just like food, sports supplements have best before dates, which serve as guidelines for how long a product remains potent and effective. In the world of sports nutrition, best before and expiry dates help indicate this time frame. For example, if a product's best before date is September 1, 2026, it will still be safe to use on September 2, 2026. Many products even retain their nutritional value years beyond their best before date, which is why it's called a "best before" date, not an "expiry" date.
The following sections explain the specifics of best before dates for different types of dietary supplements. Effectiveness may vary depending on the manufacturer and the quality of the raw materials used.
Herbal Products
Herbal supplements gradually lose potency over time. Typically, they remain effective for around three years after production, with their efficacy diminishing about two years after the best before date.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Vitamins and minerals also weaken with age. B vitamins, in particular, lose potency after the best before date, but most other vitamins maintain their effectiveness for about two years beyond that date.
Enzymes
Enzyme supplements tend to lose potency over time but generally stay effective for about one year past the best before date.
Protein and Amino Acids
Protein and amino acid supplements gradually degrade with age, but high-quality versions typically remain potent for one to two years after the best before date.
Glandular Supplements
More sensitive than vitamins, glandular supplements maintain their potency for about one year after the best before date. To extend shelf life, store these supplements in cool conditions.
Juices and Liquid Supplements
Liquid supplements also weaken with age, but they generally stay effective for about one year after their best before date.
Tips for Extending Supplement Shelf Life
The higher the quality of a supplement, the longer it remains potent after the best before date. Unless otherwise indicated, avoid refrigerating supplements, and always store them in airtight containers, away from light, moisture, and heat to maximize their shelf life.