Quick Answers
Hemp protein powder has a shelf life of around 12-18 months when stored properly in a cool, dark place. Unopened hemp protein powder will stay fresh longer while opened containers may start to lose potency after 4-6 months. The best way to maximize hemp protein powder’s shelf life is to store it in the refrigerator or freezer after opening.
What is Hemp Protein Powder?
Hemp protein powder is a nutritional supplement made from grinding up hemp seeds into a fine powder. Hemp seeds naturally contain all 9 essential amino acids, making hemp protein a complete protein source. Hemp protein is highly digestible and rich in fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium.
Compared to other protein supplements like whey or soy, hemp protein provides the benefits of fiber and essential fatty acids from the whole hemp seeds. The protein content of hemp powder ranges from 45-50% protein per serving, making it a concentrated vegetarian protein source.
Hemp protein powder has an earthy, nutty flavor that blends well into smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, and protein shakes. When choosing hemp protein, look for cold-pressed, organic hemp protein to get the full nutrition benefits. Avoid any harsh chemical solvents used in processing.
Benefits of Hemp Protein Powder
- Plant-based complete protein source
- Rich in fiber which promotes digestive health
- Contains healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6
- Naturally gluten-free and non-GMO
- Easily digested and absorbed
- Has all 9 essential amino acids
- Provides minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium
How is Hemp Protein Powder Made?
Hemp protein powder starts with whole hemp seeds as the base ingredient. The hemp seeds are first pressed to extract the oils, which can be sold as hemp seed oil. What remains after the oil extraction is a pressed “hemp cake” which contains about 50% protein by weight along with fiber, minerals, and other nutrients.
This hemp cake then goes through further processing to be milled into a fine powder. The powder’s texture can range from coarse to very fine depending on the specific grinding method used. Some hemp proteins are also cold-pressed, meaning they did not use heat during the pressing process to extract the oils. Cold-pressed hemp protein preserves more nutrients.
When searching for a hemp protein brand, look for one that uses organic hemp seeds and a cold-pressed method. Avoid hexane-extracted hemp protein, as hexane is a harsh solvent that can leave residue behind. High-quality hemp protein powder contains only pure hemp seeds as the ingredients.
How Long Does Hemp Protein Powder Last?
Unopened hemp protein powder that is properly stored can last 12-18 months past the manufacturing date before going bad. Once opened, the shelf life is reduced to 4-6 months if kept sealed in a cool, dry place.
Hemp protein powder can go bad once it surpasses the shelf life. Spoiled hemp protein will have reduced nutritional value and an unpleasant odor or taste. Rancid omega fats can also develop over time, leading to free radical damage.
Signs Hemp Protein Has Gone Bad
- Unpleasant bitter, musty, or stale odor
- Change in color from light beige to yellow or grey
- Lumpy clumping texture
- Taste is off, rancid, or unpleasant
If your hemp protein shows any signs of spoilage, it is best to throw it out and get a new container. Consuming rancid hemp protein powder can potentially cause gastrointestinal issues.
How to Store Hemp Protein Powder
To maximize the shelf life of hemp protein powder:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep container tightly sealed after each use.
- Refrigerate after opening for up to 6 months shelf life.
- Freeze for up to 1 year shelf life if not using regularly.
- Check manufacturing date and best by date.
- Transfer to smaller container to reduce air exposure if needed.
The refrigerator or freezer are ideal for storing hemp protein powder once opened. The cold environment helps prevent the healthy fats in hemp from going rancid. If storing in the fridge, use an airtight container to prevent absorbing odors.
Does Hemp Protein Powder Need Refrigerated?
Refrigeration is recommended for opened hemp protein powder to extend its shelf life. While not absolutely necessary, refrigeration or freezing will keep the powders freshness and nutritional value intact for a longer period.
Unopened hemp protein can safely be kept in a cool, dry pantry for up to 18 months. But once exposed to air, humidity, and fluctuating temperatures from opening, it best to refrigerate or freeze it.
If you use hemp protein powder every day, keeping it in the refrigerator is ideal. For occasional use, the freezer prevents deterioration between uses. Allow to come to room temperature before using again if frozen.
Safety & Side Effects
Hemp protein powder is generally well-tolerated by most people. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:
- Digestive issues – Too much fiber at once may cause bloating, gas, cramps.
- Allergies – Hemp seeds are related to nuts, so those with nut allergies should avoid.
- Drug interactions – Hemp may interact with blood thinners, NSAIDs pain killers, lithium, and other medications.
- Hormones – Phytoestrogen content may interfere with hormone sensitive conditions for some.
Start with small doses of hemp protein powder to assess tolerance. Drink plenty of water to help digest the fiber content. Those on medications should discuss using hemp protein with their doctor.
Is it Safe to Consume Hemp Protein After Expiration?
It is not recommended to knowingly consume hemp protein powder past its expiration date. As the proteins, fats, and nutrients degrade over time, consuming expired hemp protein powder comes with potential digestive upset and reduced nutritional value.
Rancid fats and proteins create free radical damage in the body, contributing to inflammation, aging, and disease. The fiber content also becomes harder to digest once expired.
For best quality and safety, properly store hemp protein according to the instructions and replace once it reaches 12-18 months after the manufacturing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hemp protein last at room temperature?
Properly stored hemp protein can last up to 18 months at room temperature before expiring if kept cool and dry. Once opened, it has a shorter shelf life of around 4-6 months.
What happens if you eat expired hemp protein?
Consuming expired hemp protein that has surpassed its shelf life can potentially lead to digestive issues, reduced protein quality, and free radical damage from old fats if rancid.
Can hemp protein make you fail a drug test?
No, hemp protein will not make you fail a drug test. Hemp contains only trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Hemp protein is safe to consume and THC free.
How long does opened hemp protein last in the fridge?
Refrigerating an opened container of hemp protein powder can extend its shelf life to about 6 months past the printed best by date before quality degrades.
Can you freeze hemp protein powder?
Yes, hemp protein powder can be safely frozen to prolong its shelf life up to 1 year past the manufacturing date. Keep frozen until ready to use, then thaw in the refrigerator before using again.
Conclusion
Hemp protein powder provides an excellent plant-based source of complete protein, fiber, healthy fats and nutrients. When stored properly unopened in a cool, dry environment, it can last up to 18 months past the manufacturing date before going bad. Once opened, hemp protein powder will stay fresh in the fridge for 4-6 months. For maximum shelf life, store opened hemp protein powder in the freezer up to 1 year.
Check your hemp protein powder for signs of freshness and discard if you notice any changes in smell, taste, texture or appearance. Consuming spoiled hemp protein can potentially cause digestive issues and provide fewer nutrients. By keeping hemp protein powder properly sealed and refrigerated or frozen, you can safely enjoy all of its nutritional benefits through its entire shelf life.
