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Our Members Asked:

I recently bought a CoQ10 supplement on Amazon. The manufacture date was hidden under a sticker, but was 13 months ago. No "Best By" date is listed. Is this product still good to use?

Written by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Updated September 19, 2019 ⓘ

Is My CoQ10 Expired? -- CoQ10 capsules in hand

Answer:

While it's hard to know if covering that date was intentional or not, by listing only a date of manufacture, the manufacturer is avoiding a claim regarding shelf life. This is allowed -- since listing a Best By or expiration date is voluntary -- but it would be better to choose a product that lists a Best By date, as it represents that the manufacturer has stability data to back-up that date. Most supplements that are maintained properly (unopened, out of excessive heat and light) should be fine for at least 2 years. However, since it may take you a few months to use up the pills in your CoQ10 bottle, it would seem best for you to return it and ask for a more recently-manufactured product.

See ConsumerLab.com's Review of CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements for more about choosing a CoQ10 supplement, and our Top Picks among products.