Sports Drink

Unopened, sports drinks typically last around 9 months to a year from the date of manufacture. This may vary slightly by brand, so always refer to the printed date on the bottle for the most accurate information. Once opened, a sports drink should be consumed within 3 to 5 days if kept in the refrigerator. If you've frozen your sports drink (yes, they can be frozen!), it should be good for about 2-3 months past the printed date.

If a sports drink has gone bad, you'll likely notice a change in color, taste or odor. A sour smell is a telltale sign of bacterial growth, and increased syrupiness can also indicate spoilage. It's also important to note if the container is bloated or has gas inside it; this is a sign of fermentation occurring, and the drink should not be consumed.

• Always store your sports drinks in a cool and dark place, away from direct sunlight. The door of your refrigerator is a convenient and suitable place for storing them. • If you're not going to consume the sports drink immediately after you've opened it, make sure to secure the cap tightly or pour it into a container with a lid to reduce air exposure. • To extend the shelf life, you can freeze your sports drink into ice cubes and pop one out whenever you fancy a drink. Just remember to thaw it properly in the fridge before consuming, or drop it directly into a glass of water to hydrate yourself quickly and effectively. • It's smart to buy in smaller quantities, as sports drinks do not last very long once opened. If you workout regularly, consider buying single-serve bottles that you can consume in one go instead of opening a larger bottle multiple times.