How Long Does BOOST Need to Be Refrigerated After Opening?

October 25, 2025 •

3 min read

Food safety experts recommend that most perishable beverages, once opened, should be consumed within a certain time frame to prevent bacterial growth. For BOOST nutritional drinks, the manufacturer has a clear directive on how long does BOOST need to be refrigerated after opening to ensure it remains safe and enjoyable to drink.

Quick Summary

Opened BOOST nutritional drinks must be refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours to ensure product safety and quality. The drinks are shelf-stable before opening but require cold storage afterward.

Key Points

24-Hour Rule: An opened BOOST drink must be refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours to maintain safety and quality.
Refrigeration is Mandatory: Unlike unopened bottles, opened BOOST requires immediate refrigeration to prevent bacterial contamination.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as it alters the product's texture and taste, potentially causing it to separate upon thawing.
Check for Spoilage: Before consuming, check for signs of spoilage such as a sour smell, changed consistency, or altered appearance.
Shelf-Stable Unopened: Unopened BOOST drinks are shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature until the expiration date.
Discard if Unsure: When in doubt about whether an opened bottle is still good, it is safest to throw it away and open a new one.

The 24-Hour Refrigeration Rule for Opened BOOST

According to the manufacturer, once a bottle of BOOST nutritional drink is opened, any unused portion must be re-covered, refrigerated, and consumed within 24 hours. This rule applies to all ready-to-drink formulations, including BOOST Original, High Protein, and BOOST Plus. The strict time limit is in place because exposure to air and changing temperatures can lead to the growth of bacteria, which may cause the product to spoil and become unsafe for consumption. While an unopened bottle is sealed and shelf-stable, the sterile seal is broken upon opening, making the contents vulnerable to contamination. To ensure the best flavor, nutrient delivery, and safety, always adhere to this 24-hour guideline.

Why Refrigeration is Critical for Opened Drinks

Refrigeration is not just for keeping the drink cold; it's a critical step for food safety. The cold temperature slows down the multiplication of microorganisms, including bacteria and mold, which can rapidly grow in high-protein, nutrient-rich liquids left at room temperature.

Steps for Proper Storage of Opened BOOST

Follow these simple steps to safely store your opened BOOST drink:

Securely Reclose: Immediately after pouring a serving, securely twist the cap back onto the bottle to limit exposure to air.
Refrigerate Immediately: Place the covered bottle in the refrigerator as soon as possible after opening. Do not leave it out at room temperature for extended periods.
Check the Time: If you don't plan to finish the bottle in one sitting, make a mental note or set a reminder to consume the remainder within 24 hours.
Shake Well: Before drinking the refrigerated portion, give the bottle a good shake, as some ingredients may have settled.

What Happens if You Don't Refrigerate an Opened Bottle?

Leaving an opened BOOST drink unrefrigerated or drinking it after the 24-hour window can lead to several undesirable outcomes. While it may not instantly cause illness in all cases, the risk of consuming a spoiled product increases significantly. The taste will likely become unappealing, and the nutritional value can degrade. More importantly, it becomes a potential health risk due to bacterial growth. The best practice is always to discard any opened drink that has been left unrefrigerated or has exceeded the 24-hour mark.

Can You Freeze BOOST Nutritional Drinks?

The manufacturer explicitly advises against freezing BOOST products. While it might seem like a good way to extend the shelf life, freezing can severely affect the drink's texture and taste. The product may separate or curdle upon thawing, resulting in an unpleasant consistency that is no longer smooth and uniform. For the best possible experience, avoid freezing and rely on proper refrigeration and timely consumption instead.

How to Tell if Your BOOST Has Spoiled

Even with proper refrigeration, it's wise to double-check for spoilage if you are unsure. Signs that a BOOST drink may have gone bad include:

Unpleasant Odor: If the drink has an off or sour smell, discard it immediately.
Changes in Consistency: If the liquid appears thicker, separates, or curdles, it is likely spoiled.
Altered Appearance: Any changes in color or the presence of mold are clear signs of spoilage.
Taste Test: If it tastes sour or different from its usual flavor, throw it out. Trust your senses.

Comparison Table: Opened vs. Unopened BOOST Storage


Feature	Unopened BOOST	Opened BOOST
Storage Location	Cool, dry place (e.g., pantry)	Refrigerator (40°F / 4°C or below)
Storage Duration	12-18 months (until expiration date)	24 hours (maximum)
Refrigeration Required?	No, but can be chilled for taste	Yes, immediately after opening
Safety Risk After Expiration	Minimal, but quality may decline	High risk of bacterial growth
Freezing Recommended?	No	No

Conclusion

The golden rule for storing BOOST after opening is to refrigerate it and consume it within 24 hours. While unopened BOOST is a convenient, shelf-stable product, its status changes dramatically once the seal is broken. Adhering to the manufacturer's strict 24-hour refrigeration guideline is essential for both food safety and maintaining the product's quality and taste. Always discard any opened product that has been left at room temperature for an extended period or has passed the 24-hour mark. Freezing is not an option for extending its life due to negative effects on texture. When in doubt, it's always safer to discard and open a new bottle. For more specific information, please consult the official BOOST website's FAQ section. Boost.com FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Once a BOOST drink is opened, it should be covered, refrigerated, and consumed within 24 hours.

No, unopened BOOST drinks are shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is not required before opening.

Leaving an opened bottle of BOOST at room temperature can cause bacteria to grow. For safety, any opened and unrefrigerated BOOST drink should be discarded, especially if left out for more than an hour or two.

Signs of spoilage include a sour or off-putting smell, a change in consistency (like curdling), or an altered taste. If you notice any of these signs, discard the drink.

No, freezing BOOST is not recommended. It will negatively affect the drink's texture and taste, potentially causing it to separate and become clumpy upon thawing.

No, for optimal safety and quality, it is recommended to discard any opened BOOST drink that has been in the refrigerator for more than 24 hours. The 24-hour limit is a firm safety guideline from the manufacturer.

Unopened BOOST is hermetically sealed to maintain its sterility and freshness. Once opened, the sterile seal is broken, exposing the contents to air and potential bacterial contamination, requiring refrigeration to slow spoilage.

Yes, the manufacturer's 24-hour refrigeration rule for opened bottles applies to all ready-to-drink BOOST nutritional products.