Preparing protein shake 12h in advance

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
1

Is there any significant disadvantage in preparing a protein shake 12 hours before consuming it, or should it be consumed as soon as it has been mixed with water or milk as it will degrade quickly? Thinking about preparing it in the morning and then taking it with me to work and drink it in the afternoon.

I asked one protein powder manufacturer (Myprotein) and they simply responded that they recommend to consume it directly after mixing, but not if or why waiting would be a problem.

2

I am not sure who you spoke with at the other protein company, but I’m going to assume they weren’t one of the scientists there.

If you mix your protein in water or some other aqueous substance and let it sit for 12 hours, a few things will happen:

  1. Some of it will “fall out” and create a sediment at the bottom. A simple shake or twirl of the spoon should help here.
  2. A small portion that stays mixed will break down further into the constituent amino acids.
  3. Nothing

None of the above alter the efficacy of protein in doing what it’s supposed to do.

3

Thanks for your answer Jordan!

It wasn’t a scientist but someone from customer service. In the same e-mail, I also asked them if casein or whey degrades when mixing it with hot milk, to which they replied “Using milk is not as effective as using water with the product.” :roll_eyes:

4

Also, a protein rich solution is an ideal environment for bacterial growth, especially if you facilitate formation of low oxygen conditions with a sealed container. Granted, 12 hours is probably not long enough for it to spoil, even at room temperature, but I would say you should keep it either refrigerated or cold in a thermos just to be on the safe side.

5

Eh, I have no problem with recommending caution about potential spoilage, but I would say whey or “protein-rich” solutions are ideal for bacterial growth. Needs more sugar.