Tag: Protein shake safety

According to food safety experts, the expiration date on your protein powder indicates peak quality, not necessarily safety. This leads many to question: is it bad to drink an expired protein shake, or is it still safe to consume?

According to the manufacturer, all Muscle Milk products have a "Best Taste Date," not an expiration date, which is different from dates found on perishable items like meat and dairy. This indicator helps ensure the product is consumed at its absolute best flavor. However, this doesn't mean it lasts forever; understanding the difference is key to knowing if your Muscle Milk is still good after the expiration date.

According to nutrition experts, a pre-mixed, refrigerated protein shake can be safe to drink for up to 72 hours, though quality may decline. This makes preparing a protein shake the night before a convenient option for those with busy schedules. However, the experience of a pre-mixed shake can differ significantly from a freshly blended one.

A 2017 review published in the *Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition* found that protein supplements can help with muscle gain and recovery, but many still ask: are there side effects to protein shakes? The answer depends heavily on the amount consumed, pre-existing health conditions, and the product's quality.

While the body can absorb virtually all protein consumed, the amount it can effectively use for muscle protein synthesis (MPS) at one time is capped. This makes it less efficient to dramatically increase protein powder in a single shake rather than spreading intake throughout the day.

Refrigerated homemade protein shakes can be kept safely for up to 72 hours, but the taste and texture might decline significantly. While a day-old shake is often safe if handled correctly, the critical factor is where and how it was stored since being mixed.

According to food safety guidelines, a protein shake should not be left unrefrigerated for more than two hours, as bacterial growth can begin to compromise its safety and quality. Factors like temperature, ingredients, and insulation all influence how long a protein shake can be left out before it spoils.

According to reports by the Environmental Research Center and subsequent class-action filings, certain OWYN products faced allegations of containing lead and cadmium as recently as 2025. So, are OWYN shakes safe for consumption today, especially for those with allergies or health concerns?

According to nutrition experts, a lumpy protein shake is typically a result of improper mixing techniques or exposure to moisture, not spoilage. So, is it okay to drink a protein shake with lumps? The answer depends on the cause of the clumping, and it's essential to differentiate between a simple mixing issue and a sign of expired powder.

According to food safety guidelines, harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly in nutrient-rich liquids like milk or pre-mixed supplements, posing a risk of foodborne illness. Therefore, if you don't consume it immediately after opening, the short answer is yes: you **do have to refrigerate a protein shake after opening** to maintain its safety and quality.