In most cases, two years from the day that it was manufactured. Though your powder isn’t likely to go bad (provided you’ve stored it in a cool, dry place), the intensities of the flavors and sweeteners and the potencies of some of the added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids may start to fade if you continue to use your protein after the “best by” or “exp(iration) date”.

Not likely – provided you’re in good health and have no history of liver or kidney problems. Protein is broken down into amino acids in the gastrointestinal tract and subsequently absorbed into the bloodstream. Any extras that aren’t used for new protein synthesis are stripped of their amine groups, rearranged and in the liver, and used for fuel. The unused nitrogen is readily excreted by the kidneys, so make sure that you’re drinking plenty of fluids when increasing your daily protein intake.

No. If you are taking a post-workout recovery formula like 2:1:1 Recovery or Platinum Hydrobuilder, you can skip your regular post-workout shake. Likewise, servings of high-calorie lean gainers (Pro Complex Gainer) and high-protein meal replacement powders (Whey Gold Meal) can be used interchangeably with protein powders. Just make sure that you’re getting enough total protein (1-1.5 g/lb bodyweight/day) and that you spread the total amount over 4-6 smaller servings throughout the day.