Should you take expired vitamins?
Clinical pharmacologist and toxicologist Aiya Almogaber said that, from a clinical standpoint, the recommendation is to stop using expired vitamins or supplements. They lose their effectiveness and, in the worst-case scenario, may increase the risk of microbial contamination.
“It’s not to say that a vitamin or supplement will suddenly become unsafe at a certain point, but you may not get the full benefit of the supplement you are taking,” pharmacology doctor Andrew Fuchs noted.
For vitamins, the expiration date or “best by” date refers to the product’s potency. The manufacturer sets the date as a guarantee that the product will remain effective for the period listed on the label.
Types of vitamins
There are major differences between vitamins themselves and their forms of release:
Gummies: These are often made with sugar, moisture, gelatin, pectin, and other ingredients that make them tasty but also prone to sticking together, melting, and developing bacteria or mold
Liquids: These begin to spoil quickly after opening because they are exposed to air and light. They are also more likely to develop mold and bacteria
Tablets: Have the longest shelf life because they are made from compressed powders and binding agents
Fat-soluble vitamins: These are more sensitive to light, heat, and air
How to store them
Keeping vitamins in a bathroom medicine cabinet may seem convenient, but it is actually the worst place for them. The same goes for kitchen cabinets near the stove. Heat, humidity, and sharp temperature changes can reduce vitamin potency more quickly.
Vitamins should always be stored in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, and moisture. It is best to keep them on a bedroom nightstand, in a dresser drawer, or on a pantry shelf.
When to throw away
There is no exact timeline in weeks or months after the expiration date for discarding old vitamins. However, always pay attention to how they look for signs that it is time to replace them.
Changes in color, smell, or texture indicate that the ingredients have changed and will be less effective.
If the packaging has been damaged, left open for too long, or exposed to moisture or dirt, such supplements are also best avoided.
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