How long is Core Power good for?

Thanks to ultrafiltration and aseptic packaging, Core Power protein shakes have a long shelf life, lasting up to 12 months for 26g products and 9 months for 42g products when unopened. However, the rules for how long is Core Power good for change dramatically once the bottle is opened.

Quick Summary

Unopened Core Power shakes are shelf-stable for 9 to 12 months, but once opened, they must be refrigerated and consumed within 14 days, like regular milk. The long shelf life is due to a special pasteurization process and aseptic packaging that prevent spoilage.

Key Points

• Unopened Shelf Life: Core Power 26g shakes are good for up to 12 months, while Elite 42g shakes last up to 9 months, thanks to aseptic packaging.

• Opened Shelf Life: Once opened, all Core Power shakes must be refrigerated and consumed within 14 days, similar to regular milk.

• Shelf-Stable Storage: Unopened shakes can be stored at room temperature and do not require refrigeration, though cooling is recommended for taste.

• Check for Spoilage: Before consuming, inspect for any signs of spoilage such as clumping, bad smells, or a bitter taste, regardless of the date.

• Expired Risks: Drinking a spoiled liquid shake carries a higher risk of bacterial issues and food poisoning than expired dry protein powders.

• Optimal Storage: Always keep unopened shakes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize their quality.

Understanding the Shelf Life of Core Power Shakes

Core Power protein shakes offer a convenient way to get high-quality protein, but knowing their shelf life is critical for both safety and efficacy. The duration that Core Power remains good depends on whether the bottle is sealed or has been opened. The official manufacturer information clarifies these timelines, which differ significantly based on the product's protein content.

Shelf-Stable When Unopened

When left unopened, Core Power shakes are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration. This is possible due to a unique ultrafiltration process combined with aseptic packaging, which sterilizes the product and seals it in a sterile environment. The specific unopened shelf life is as follows:

• Core Power 26g shakes: Good for up to 12 months from the production date.
• Core Power Elite 42g shakes: Good for up to 9 months from the production date.

Limited Life After Opening

Once you break the seal, the product's shelf stability is compromised. All Core Power products must be refrigerated immediately after opening and treated like regular milk. It is recommended to consume the product within 14 days of opening. If left unrefrigerated after opening, the risk of bacterial growth increases rapidly.

The Technology Behind Core Power's Freshness

Core Power's extended shelf life is not magic; it's a result of advanced dairy processing technology developed by its parent company, Fairlife.

• Ultrafiltration: This patented process uses special soft filters to concentrate the milk's protein and calcium while filtering out much of the natural sugar. This results in a higher protein and lower sugar product.
• Aseptic Pasteurization and Packaging: The milk is heated to a higher temperature for a shorter duration than conventional pasteurization. This process, combined with carefully designed packaging, maintains the product's freshness and safety for an extended period without refrigeration until it is opened.

How to Know If Core Power Has Gone Bad

Beyond the stated shelf life, your senses are the most reliable tool for determining if a liquid protein shake has spoiled. If you notice any of the following signs, it's best to discard the product, regardless of the date on the bottle:

• Off Smell: If the shake smells sour, rancid, or otherwise unpleasant, it's a clear sign that it has spoiled.
• Bitter Taste: Any bitter or odd-tasting flavors indicate spoilage. Always taste a tiny amount first if you're unsure.
• Clumping or Texture Changes: A significant change in consistency, such as clumping, thickening, or a watery separation, is a red flag.
• Discoloration: While less common, any noticeable changes in color, especially darkening, can signify spoilage.

The Risks of Drinking Expired Core Power

Consuming a liquid dairy-based product past its expiration date or after it has spoiled can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Unlike dry protein powders, which are less prone to bacterial growth, a liquid shake offers a more hospitable environment for bacteria. While a minor expired beverage might cause only mild discomfort, a heavily spoiled one could lead to more significant food poisoning symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps. Additionally, expired protein shakes may lose their nutritional efficacy, meaning you won't get the full protein and amino acid benefits.

Storage Conditions Comparison

Condition	Typical Shelf Life	Refrigeration Required
Unopened (26g shake)	Up to 12 months	No (Shelf-Stable)
Unopened (42g Elite shake)	Up to 9 months	No (Shelf-Stable)
Opened (any shake)	Within 14 days	Yes, immediately

Conclusion

For optimal freshness, safety, and nutritional value, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's storage guidelines for Core Power shakes. Unopened products can be safely stored at room temperature for up to 9-12 months, depending on the variety, but they must be treated as perishable dairy once opened. By paying attention to the best-by date and inspecting the product for any signs of spoilage, you can ensure you are enjoying a safe and effective post-workout drink every time. When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and discard any product that appears or smells off.

Check the official Coca-Cola FAQ for further details on Core Power's shelf life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I leave an unopened Core Power shake out of the fridge?

An unopened Core Power shake is shelf-stable and can be left out of the fridge at room temperature for its entire unopened shelf life, which is up to 12 months for 26g shakes and 9 months for 42g Elite shakes.

What should I do if I opened a Core Power shake and left it unrefrigerated overnight?

If an opened Core Power shake has been left unrefrigerated overnight, it should be discarded. Once the sterile seal is broken, the dairy-based product is susceptible to rapid bacterial growth, even if it does not show immediate signs of spoilage.

Is it safe to drink a Core Power shake that is a few weeks past its expiration date?

It is not recommended to drink a liquid, dairy-based shake like Core Power past its expiration date. Unlike dry powders, the risk of bacterial growth is higher, and the nutritional content and flavor may have degraded.

Why does Core Power have such a long shelf life for a milk-based product?

Core Power has a long shelf life due to its ultrafiltration process and aseptic packaging. The milk is pasteurized at a higher temperature for a shorter time and then sealed in a sterile environment, which extends its freshness significantly.

How do I know if the flavor of my shake has degraded but is still safe to drink?

If a shake is close to its expiration date but shows no signs of spoilage (no clumping, bad smell, or bitter taste), it is likely safe to drink, but the flavor might be less intense. A quick taste test can confirm this, but if there is any bitterness or sourness, discard it.

Can I freeze Core Power shakes to extend their shelf life?

While it's technically possible to freeze the shake, it is not recommended. Freezing can cause the milk proteins to separate, leading to a clumpy or grainy texture that significantly alters the quality and taste of the product once thawed.

What is the difference in shelf life between a 26g and a 42g Core Power shake?

The unopened shelf life differs slightly between the two products. The 26g Core Power shake has a shelf life of up to 12 months, while the higher-protein 42g Core Power Elite shake has a shelf life of up to 9 months.