MCT oils are among the most popular supplements today. People prize them for their ability to boost cognitive and athletic performance, suppress appetite, and accelerate fat loss all without breaking a fast!
But MCT oils are a relatively new supplement, and one many of us are not used to using.
One question we are frequently asked on our best MCT oil supplements page is whether or not MCT oils go bad. People sometimes find that their MCT oil has gone rancid, giving off an unpleasant smell, when left unused for a long period of time. But other people keep their MCT oil for years, using it sparingly, and find it never goes bad.
Every oil has its expiration date, including MCT. Many manufacturers will state a use-by or best-by date on the bottle; this is generally two years from the manufacturing date.
Does coconut oil go bad?
Generally speaking, coconut oil doesn’t go bad after the date on the label. It’s usually okay to use for months after that date, if stored properly. That means that as long as your coconut oil is stored in a cool, dry place in a properly sealed container, it should be fine to eat long after the date on the label.
MCT oil is similarly quite long-lasting. However, because of the way that MCT oil supplements are prepared and stored, it’s best to stick to the use-by dates shown on the bottle. If you’re unsure about whether or not your MCT oil – or coconut oil – has gone bad or not, it is always best to contact the manufacturer (and of course, use your common sense).
How long until MCT oil goes bad?
Every bottle of MCT oil should have a best-by or use-by date marked clearly on the label. This is not an expiration date. It is an indication of how long the MCT oil should retain the best quality. As long as you keep the MCT oil stored properly, it will not go bad for many months after the listed date.
Do you need to refrigerate your MCT oil?
No, you do not need to refrigerate your MCT oil to stop it from going bad. MCT oil should be stored in a cool, dry place with the cap firmly closed. Putting your MCT oil in the fridge might extend its shelf life a little, but it is a long-lasting product as it is!
Does MCT Oil Go Bad? | SanDiegoHealth.org
FAQ
Is it OK to use expired MCT oil?
Why avoid MCT oil?
What is the shelf life of MCT oil tincture?
How long does MCT oil stay in the system?
How long does MCT oil last?
MCT oil typically has two years of shelf life. Check its “best-by” date for this information. With proper storage, the oil should preserve its quality until this date and possibly longer. It is always best to use it before this date. But, what if you have an expired MCT oil? Don’t rush throwing it away.
What is the difference between MCT oil and coconut oil?
Medium-chain triglyceride oil(or MCT oil) and coconut oil are not the same thing, although many articles promote the use of coconut oil as providing similar health benefits to that of MCT oil. For example, MCT oil has been shown to increase satiety and reduce food intake whereas coconut oil has not. While MCT oil is commonly made from coconut oil, MCT oil primarily contains the fatty acids caprylic and capric acid and no lauric acid. Lauric acid is found in large quantities in coconut oil and makes up almost 50% of the total fatty acid profile in virgin coconut oil, for example. Unlike pure MCT oil, only 20–30% of lauric acid is taken directly to the liver to be used as energy. This means that only a small percentage of coconut oil contains the MCTs that are absorbed and metabolized in the same way as pure MCT oil and is the likely reason they do not provide the same health benefits. Clinical studies comparing the two oils side by side are lacking.
Does MCT oil go bad?
When it comes to spotting signs of MCT oil going bad, the symptoms are pretty much similar to other kinds of oil, like coconut oil, canola oil, or olive oil. Rancidity is the real enemy. Rancid oil won’t kill you right away, but it is just gross and does nothing good but ruining your food. So, whenever in doubt, better stay on the safe side.
What happens if you refrigerate MCT oil?
If you refrigerate MCT oil, it will become thick and cloudy. You can still use refrigerated MCT oil, but it may be difficult to measure or pour. MCT oil can last for up to two years if it is stored properly. However, once you open the bottle, it is best to use it within six months. After six months, the quality of the oil may start to decline.