Pedialyte is an essential item to keep handy in the home for the sake of your little ones.
One out of nine deaths of children worldwide occurs because of diarrhea (or issues related to it). It is understandable, then, why parents might want to keep some Pedialyte on hand at all times!
But does Pedialyte have an expiration date? In this article, we are going to be looking at the shelf life of Pedialyte as well as take a more in-depth, general look at the oral solution.
What Is Pedialyte?
Pedialyte is a pediatric electrolyte replacement drink that helps replenish lost fluids and minerals from the body. It does this by preventing dehydration caused by gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea.
Pedialyte also contains sodium chloride (salt), potassium chloride (potassium), and magnesium sulfate (magnesium). These elements help restore fluid balance in the body and maintain normal blood pressure.
Pedialyte has been formulated to meet the nutritional needs of infants, toddlers, and young children as well as aid with rehydration therapy.
The Features Of Pedialyte
Contains electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Helps replace fluids lost through vomiting or diarrhea
Can be used to treat mild to moderate dehydration
Contains no sugar or artificial colors or flavors
Made specifically for kids
Easy-to-use formula
Does Pedialyte Expire?
Yes, Pedialyte does indeed expire. The manufacturer recommends that you use up any remaining product within three days after opening the bottle.
If you do not consume the entire contents within those three days, you should discard the remainder.
How Long Does Pedialyte Last?
The shelf life of Pedialyte is approximately one year when stored properly. However, once opened, the product can only be kept for about three days before being discarded (as mentioned above).
You should always check the expiry date prior to using the product. This way, you know exactly how long the product will last.
However, there are many factors that affect the shelf-life of Pedialyte. Let’s take a look at some of these particular factors:
Temperature
If the temperature is too cold, Pedialyte will freeze. When frozen, the product loses its effectiveness. When too hot, Pedialyte becomes too runny and can cause stomach upset.
To avoid either of these issues, keep the product away from direct sunlight, freezing temperatures, and heat sources such as radiators. Store the product in a cool, dark place (just not too cool!).
Humidity
High humidity levels can also shorten the shelf life of Pedialyte. Humidity causes the ingredients inside the product to become sticky.
This makes it difficult for the product to mix properly and results in poor absorption. Keep the product away from humid conditions.
Light
When exposed to light, Pedialyte turns brown. Browning affects the taste and appearance of the product.
Also, if left exposed to light for extended periods of time, Pedialyte may develop a foul odor. Therefore, store the product in a dark area where it won’t get exposed to light.
Airborne Particulates
When exposed to airborne particles, Pedialyte absorbs them into the liquid.
These particles can contaminate the product and result in reduced absorption. Therefore, store the product in a clean area where no dust or dirt accumulates.
Storing Pedialyte
Store Pedialyte in a cool, dry location. A refrigerator is ideal, but other locations like cupboards or basements work just fine.
Make sure you rotate the bottles every few months, so they don’t sit in one spot for too long.
How Long Does Pedialyte Last When Open?
Pedialyte lasts for up to 24 hours once opened. Once open, you must refrigerate the product immediately. Refrigeration can extend the shelf life of the products to around three days.
Just keep an eye on it within those three days if you do open it to make sure that it doesn’t go bad.
Once sealed, Pedialyte stays fresh for up to 2 years. After opening, the product’s shelf life decreases significantly. The best way to extend the shelf life of the unopened product is to refrigerate it.
How Much Pedialyte Should My Child Use?
There is no specified, recommended amount of Pedialyte that children should drink each day. Each individual needs to determine what works best for the child.
Some children require more than others, such as children who have diarrhea, as they will be dehydrated more often.
Consult your pediatrician if you are unsure how much Pedialyte your child requires.
When Should Your Child Use Pedialyte?
Use Pedialyte whenever your child has watery stools. Watery stools are usually caused by dehydration.
Dehydration occurs when the body does not get enough fluid. If your child has diarrhea, he/she may need extra fluids.
When Not to Use Pedialyte?
Don’t use Pedialyte if your child has blood in his/her stool. Blood in the stool could indicate an infection.
Your child may also have bloody stools because of another condition called hemorrhoids, which relates to bleeding veins in the anal canal. Consult your pediatrician if your child has any bleeding.
If your child has a fever, do not give him/her Pedialyte. Fever can interfere with the absorption process. It can also cause stomach cramps and vomiting, which will only worsen any dehydration issues.
What Are The Ingredients In Pedialyte?
The active ingredient in Pedialyte is sodium chloride (salt). Other ingredients include potassium citrate, magnesium sulfate, calcium lactate, glucose, vitamin B6, iron, zinc oxide, dextrose monohydrate, sucralose, aspartame, pectin, carrageenan, cellulose gum, and xanthan gum.
Does Pedialyte Contain Sugar?
Yes, Pedialyte contains sugar. However, the amount of sugar in Pedialyte isn’t very high and is included to create a balance with the various minerals.
Tips For Maintaining The Quality And Effectiveness Of Pedialyte
Keep Pedialyte out of direct sunlight. Heat accelerates the breakdown of some ingredients in the product.
Avoid storing the product in areas with high humidity.
Refrigerate the product as soon as possible after opening.
Do not freeze the product. Freezing damages the active ingredient.
Make sure you keep the container tightly closed while traveling. Traveling with the bottle unsealed can increase the risk of contamination.
Always follow the directions on the label.
Final Thoughts
Pedialyte is a very useful product when it comes to treating dehydration in children. It helps to restore lost fluids and electrolytes.
That being said, it is important to remember that Pedialyte is only one part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
A good diet and rest are also essential parts of the plan when it comes to treating little ones suffering from dehydration, but Pedialyte is a great way to help them on the way to recovery and rehydration.
When it comes to the expiration date of Pedialyte, as long as you are sensible, you should be able to extend the shelf life of the product significantly.
Hopefully, the tips that we have provided above will help you make the most of this product.
Carly Link, a 33-year old mother of two toddlers. She is a parent and goes through a lot of the usual parenting difficulties herself. Carly shares all her experiences and knowledge about the best baby products through this blog.
