Can probiotics go bad if not refrigerated?

While some strains of probiotics are shelf-stable, others may require refrigerating to extend their shelf life. Certain probiotic foods like yogurt and kefir also spoil if not kept in the fridge.

Do probiotics really need to be refrigerated?

Answer: Proper refrigeration is critical for many probiotics, both before and after they are purchased. … Many probiotic bacteria are naturally sensitive to heat and moisture. Heat can kill organisms and moisture can activate them within pills, only to die due to lack of nutrients and a proper environment.

What happens if probiotics get hot?

The secret many probiotic companies don't like to discuss is that most probiotic bacteria will die if they are exposed to excessive heat. Even long-term exposure to room temperature conditions will adversely impact most probiotic strains.

How do you know if probiotics are alive?

A typical label will have the name of the specific probiotic (such as Lactobacillus acidophilus), the dose in CFU, an expiration date, and instructions for use and storage. The expiration date is important because it should have the “use by date,” which is how long the product will have live cultures.

What happens if you don’t refrigerate Acidophilus?

Some experts caution that Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and other types of probiotics are so sensitive to the manufacturing process, heat, and moisture, they should be purchased as live bacteria in the refrigerated section.

Do probiotics expire?

Probiotic supplements, made from live bacteria and yeasts, will be far less potent once expired. It's best to throw them out.

Do probiotics make you poop?

Probiotics can, in fact, make you poop—especially if you're suffering from constipation caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It's important to understand that probiotics are not laxatives. Their purpose is not to stimulate your bowels.