Is it okay to put probiotics in the fridge?

November 20, 2025 •

2 min read

Many probiotic supplements do not require refrigeration, as many are made to be shelf-stable. Whether it is okay to put probiotics in the fridge depends on the strains and manufacturing.

Quick Summary

The need to refrigerate probiotics hinges on their strains and formulation. Some need cold, while others are freeze-dried for room temperature. Proper storage is crucial for the probiotics' potency and viability.

Key Points

Check the Label: Always follow the specific storage instructions on your probiotic's label, as requirements vary by product.
Refrigeration Isn't Universal: Not all probiotics need to be refrigerated; many modern formulas are designed to be shelf-stable.
Freeze-Dried vs. Live Cultures: Shelf-stable probiotics are typically freeze-dried, while refrigerated ones contain more sensitive, live cultures that are susceptible to heat.
Heat and Humidity are Enemies: Excessive heat and moisture are the primary factors that cause probiotic bacteria to die off, reducing the product's effectiveness.
Storage Location Matters: Keep shelf-stable probiotics in a cool, dry place like a pantry, and avoid warm, humid areas like a bathroom cabinet.
Potency Depends on Storage: The best way to ensure the probiotic's potency is to adhere strictly to the recommended storage conditions.

Understanding the Two Main Types of Probiotics

Probiotic supplements vary. The key storage difference is whether they contain live cultures, sensitive to heat, or are shelf-stable. Both are effective, but correct handling is vital.

Refrigerated Probiotics: The Sensitive Strains

Some probiotic strains are sensitive to warmth and humidity, which can degrade them. Manufacturers advise refrigeration to keep the bacteria dormant and preserve their viability.

Liquid Probiotics: Many liquid probiotics require consistent refrigeration.
High CFU Count Formulas: Supplements with very high CFU counts may require refrigeration.
Dairy Products: Fermented foods like yogurt and kefir must be refrigerated.

Shelf-Stable Probiotics: The Modern Technology

Shelf-stable probiotics are made possible through freeze-drying, which makes the bacteria dormant. They are also often packaged with moisture-absorbing desiccants.

Convenience: Storing at room temperature is ideal for travel and busy lifestyles.
Resistant Strains: Some shelf-stable products use robust strains that are less vulnerable.
Manufacturing Quality: A quality shelf-stable probiotic should guarantee its CFU count through the expiration date.

Comparison Table: Refrigerated vs. Shelf-Stable Probiotics


Feature	Refrigerated Probiotics	Shelf-Stable Probiotics
Storage Temperature	Requires refrigeration (e.g., 36–46°F or 2–8°C).	Can be stored at room temperature (typically below 77°F or 25°C).
Bacterial Viability	Sensitive to heat and moisture; requires cold temperatures.	Protected from heat and humidity through freeze-drying and advanced packaging.
Key Strains	Often contains sensitive Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species.	May use more robust strains or advanced packaging.
Packaging	Often sold refrigerated and may be shipped with ice packs.	Advanced moisture-proof packaging, sometimes with desiccants.
Convenience	Less convenient for travel.	Highly convenient for travel and daily storage.
Efficacy	Effective when stored correctly.	Equally effective when stored properly.

The Risks of Improper Storage

Improper storage reduces probiotic effectiveness by causing bacteria to die off. Factors include:

Heat: High temperatures can kill bacteria.
Humidity: Moisture can prematurely reactivate freeze-dried bacteria.
Oxygen: Exposure can affect survival rates.

How to Ensure Your Probiotics Remain Potent

Always follow manufacturer storage guidelines. If the label says "refrigerate," do so. Shelf-stable products should be in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Keep supplements in original packaging. A high-quality probiotic guarantees CFU count through expiration. Look for probiotics shipped in insulated packaging.

Conclusion: Read the Label, Store Appropriately

The answer to whether you can put probiotics in the fridge is: sometimes. Check the label for storage instructions. Some withstand room temperature, while others must be refrigerated. Correct storage ensures maximum potency.

For more detailed information on supplement standards, you can refer to the Council for Responsible Nutrition which represents dietary supplement and functional food manufacturers and suppliers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Refrigerated probiotics contain living cultures sensitive to heat and moisture, needing cold temperatures. Shelf-stable probiotics are freeze-dried and packaged to protect the bacteria, allowing room temperature storage.

No, it will not harm shelf-stable probiotics to put them in the fridge. While not necessary, storing them in a colder environment can help further preserve their potency and extend their shelf life.

Leaving refrigerated probiotics out of the fridge, especially in warmth, causes the bacteria to die off, reducing the supplement's effectiveness.

Most refrigerated probiotics tolerate brief periods out of the fridge. However, prolonged warm exposure (over 2 hours) can compromise viability. Consistent temperature is key for refrigerated varieties.

The product label is the best source of information. It will clearly state 'keep refrigerated' or provide specific temperature guidelines if cold storage is required. If the product was in a refrigerated case at the store, it also needs to be refrigerated at home.

Not necessarily. Refrigeration is a storage method based on the bacterial strains and manufacturing process, not an indicator of overall quality. Both high-quality refrigerated and shelf-stable products exist. The most important factor is following the correct storage instructions for the product you choose.

Shelf-stable probiotics should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A kitchen cabinet or pantry is a good option, but avoid humid areas like a bathroom cabinet.