An old vitamin bottle often raises two questions. Is it still safe, and is it still worth taking. The answer depends on the product, the storage conditions and whether anything about the product has visibly changed.
What the date means#
For food supplements, the date usually means the quality guarantee period. After that, the product may not be dangerous, but its quality or potency can decline. For medicines, the expiry date should be taken more seriously.
What damages the product#
Heat, light, moisture and air all shorten shelf life. Bathrooms, window ledges and hot cupboards are poor places to store supplements. A cool, dry, dark cabinet is usually better.
Which forms are more sensitive#
Tablets often keep well if they stay dry. Oil-based products and soft capsules are more sensitive because oils can go rancid. Powders can clump if moisture gets in. If the smell, taste or appearance changes clearly, the product should not be used.
When to throw it away#
Throw the product away if it smells odd, tastes rancid, has changed colour, has become sticky or soft, or has visible moisture damage. If the product has been opened for a long time and you are unsure, discarding it is usually the simpler choice.
When to seek care#
Seek care if a used old product causes symptoms, if a child has taken something old by mistake, or if you are unsure whether a medicine is still usable.
Further reading and sources#
Further reading: