Can expired unopened calcium tablets still be taken?

Generally, expired calcium tablets that are still unopened are not recommended for consumption, as their nutritional components may degrade and there could be safety risks after expiration—even if they appear normal. Here's a detailed explanation:

After expiration, the calcium in the tablets may undergo oxidation or decomposition, reducing its activity and effectiveness, thus failing to achieve the desired calcium supplementation. Meanwhile, auxiliary ingredients such as vitamin D may also lose potency, significantly decreasing the product’s overall nutritional value. Some calcium tablets might develop clumping, discoloration, or other physical changes due to ingredient degradation, negatively affecting the user experience.

Expired calcium tablets may harbor bacteria or mold, especially if stored improperly, increasing the risk of microbial growth. Consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Moreover, degraded ingredients might produce harmful substances, posing health risks. Additionally, reduced stability in expired tablets could cause imbalances in composition, potentially increasing metabolic burden on the body.

In daily life, always check the expiration date when purchasing calcium supplements, and opt for recently manufactured products. Store them sealed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place to prevent moisture damage and deterioration. If calcium tablets have expired, regardless of whether they have been opened or not, they should be discarded immediately—do not take the risk of consuming them.