Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an example of a water-soluble vitamin and is common in natural fruits and as a supplement. Vitamin C has been widely studied and in one study shown to degrade by about 50% over 4 weeks in the juice of different fruits.
What is the shelf life of vitamin C?
Ascorbic acid is given a shelf life of 3 years from date of manufacture. After 3 years, ascorbic acid is usually found to have lost about 1-2% of its potency through oxidiation. A loss of potency means it will take more ascorbic acid to obtain the same effect as ascorbic acid which still has 100% effectiveness.
Does Vit C decompose?
Vitamin C can be destroyed by heat and light. High-heat cooking temperatures or prolonged cook times can break down the vitamin. Because it is water-soluble, the vitamin can also seep into cooking liquid and be lost if the liquids are not eaten.
Is it OK to take expired vitamin C?
In general, it is relatively safe to take an expired vitamin supplement. It is unlikely to cause harm, as most expired medications and supplements do not usually become toxic.
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