We’re sure you’ve been in this situation before: You reach into your pantry looking forward to an energy boost, only to realize that your pre-workout has expired. But a look into the container reveals that it appears fine. You give it a sniff, and it smells OK. Then, you think to yourself: Does pre-workout expire?
You don’t want to be wasteful, but you’re also not sure if rolling the dice is worth it… So, what do you do?
How to Tell if Pre-Workout Is Expired
Go ahead and hang up your detective hat. The best way to determine whether or not your pre-workout has expired is by looking at the expiration date printed on the packaging, says Paul Falcone, MS, principal scientist at BODi. “These dates are established after testing to guarantee quality, potency, and efficacy of the product within that time frame,” Falcone says.
Additionally, discolored or clumpy pre-workout powder can also be signs that it was left out for too long and has gone bad.
Beachbody Performance Energize‘s active ingredients are carefully formulated to help optimize athletic performance.* Caffeine, beta-alanine, and quercetin work to help increase energy, delay fatigue, and maintain laser-sharp focus.
However, the only way to ensure you’re gaining the optimal benefits from Beachbody Performance Energize (or any other pre-workout supplement) is to consume it according to the instructions and before its expiration date.
Can Pre-Workout Go Bad After Mixing?
While it’s best to allow some time between drinking pre-workout and hitting the gym (30 to 60 minutes is ideal), you should avoid preparing pre-workout too far in advance. “We recommend drinking pre-workout right away after mixing it up, or as instructed on the packaging of these products,” Falcone says.
On-the-go packets of Beachbody Performance Energize — because they include a single serving and require no measuring — make it easy to prepare your pre-workout anywhere there’s a water source. Just don’t forget your bottle!
What Causes Pre-Workout to Go Bad?
Pretty much anything meant to be consumed has a shelf life. Dietary supplements, just like an apple, are susceptible to air and moisture and will begin to break down over time.
Based on scientific testing, expiration dates offer the most accurate timeframe for when it’s okay to consume supplements. “Beachbody Performance Energize should maintain its quality as long as it is consumed within the expiration date provided on the package,” Falcone says.
Is It OK to Take Expired Pre-Workout?
At some point, you’ve probably gambled with an expired product without experiencing any side effects. Maybe you took your chances with yogurt just past its “best by” date or, in a moment of desperation, heated up that forgotten jar of spaghetti sauce that technically should have been eaten a couple months ago.
While you survived to tell the tale, you probably should have just tossed the questionable item. The same rule applies to all supplements, including Beachbody Performance Energize.
“It is never a good idea to consume any product past its expiry date,” Falcone says.
How Can You Stop Pre-Workout From Going Bad?
Preserving pre-workout’s freshness comes down to proper storage conditions. Use these tips to keep your pre-workout fresh.
1. Keep it in its container
Beachbody Performance Energize‘s packaging is designed for storage, so avoid transferring it (or any other Beachbody Performance product) to a different container.
2. Stay cool
The shelf sitting in direct sunlight or above the oven is probably not the best home for your pre-workout. Instead, choose a cool, dry place like a cabinet or, if you have room, pop it in your fridge.
3. Avoid moisture
Never use a wet scoop to measure your pre-workout, and be mindful of humidity. Some rooms, like the bathroom, tend to have more moisture in the air. Find the driest space in your home to store pre-workout.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
