In this article, we’ll talk about the right way to store Pedialyte, and does Pedialyte need to be refrigerated. Every parent turns to Pedialyte when their child is dehydrated from throwing up or having diarrhea. But when it comes to the right way to store Pedialyte, a lot of people don’t know what to do. I sure didn’t when I was a new momma!
What Is Pedialyte?
Pedialyte is a nutritionally dense fluid that can be used to replace fluids lost during severe illnesses. It contains electrolytes, minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients.
You may notice that your child is losing more than usual when they are sick. Getting enough water is crucial since our bodies can’t function properly without it. If you don’t, you risk being dehydrated.
Water is a great choice for replacing fluids lost during exercise, but Pedialyte goes the extra mile by also including electrolytes. Once the components are within the body, electrolytes assist keep them in equilibrium.
Your kid might have an easier time chugging down Pedialyte. When kids are sick, they often don’t feel like drinking anything, so getting them to take in fluids, even water, can be a challenge.
In addition, the terrible taste that some medicines have makes most kids detest taking them.
However, Pedialyte comes in a variety of tastes, so kids won’t have a hard time drinking it. It’s possible that your kids won’t be as resistant to taking this prescription as they are to others.
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Does Pedialyte Need To Be Refrigerated?
Yes, keeping your Pedialyte in the refrigerator is necessary. You can either refrigerate a Pedialyte packet that has been opened or Pedialyte that has been combined with water and then refrigerated.
You must consume it no later than 48 hours after it has been refrigerated, regardless of the method that you choose to use. This is because putting your Pedialyte in the refrigerator will slow down the growth of bacteria, but it will not completely prevent it.
This implies that once your 48 hours have passed, there will be an unhealthy level of germs in the Pedialyte, and it will no longer be suitable for consumption.
How Can You Tell If Pedialyte Is Spoiled?
The majority of the time, you won’t be able to see, smell, or taste hazardous microorganisms that are present in the food or drink you consume. As a consequence of this, you will be unable to determine when your Pedialyte has become spoiled. Because of this, there is a specified amount of time in which you must finish drinking it before disposing of it.
If it has been more than 48 hours since you refrigerated the Pedialyte, then you need to throw it out. If you have forgotten about your Pedialyte and it has been sitting out on the counter for a while, then it is no longer safe to consume and you should get rid of it.
Pedialyte that has not been opened can be stored safely at room temperature until the expiration date that is printed on the box.
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How Long Does Pedialyte Spoil If Refrigerated?
If you have preserved your Pedialyte by placing it in the refrigerator, you need to make sure that you use it within the next 48 hours. After that amount of time has elapsed, there will be an unacceptably high number of germs in the Pedialyte, and as a consequence, it is no longer suitable for eating by humans.
Different Varieties Of Pedialyte
There are several Pedialyte formulations available. There are advantages and disadvantages to everything. Different types of Pedialyte have different expiration dates, so it’s crucial to receive accurate details about the product you’re using.
Pedialyte Pops
Single-serve Pedialyte popsicles, right here. They’re a good option if you don’t want to use a ready-to-pour solution to build your own.
Having been frozen, they will keep for a time. The freezer has the added benefit of slowing the growth of bacteria. Nonetheless, they have a much shorter shelf life than the other types and should be thrown out after 6-8 months at the very latest.
Children with fevers also benefit greatly from these (the coldness can help bring their temperature down.) To be sure, these aren’t the best option if you need anything portable.
Pedialyte Powder
Single-serve packets of Pedialyte powder are also available. As easy as adding a water enhancer to a water bottle, you add the packet to eight ounces of water and stir. Then, before you go anywhere, give the water bottle a good shake.
If you’re looking for a portable option, these are ideal.
Additionally, they can be stored for several years without going bad. All of these are great options for those who find themselves discarding the remaining Pedialyte in a jug rather than using it.
Ready To Pour Pedialyte
The Pedialyte containers were previously noted. If stored properly, they should be fine for around two years. When opened, they need to be stored in the fridge for optimal freshness.
After 48 hours, any leftovers should be thrown away. Unlike the Pedialyte Pops, these can be kept in the pantry and are always handy.
The major drawback is that you have to squander both Pedialyte and money if you don’t drink the entire jug.
Pedialyte Juice Boxes
Juice boxes of Pedialyte are a portable alternative to the larger ready-to-pour packets. Put a straw in it and give it to your kiddo.
They are equally as portable as powder forms, taking up very little room in your backpack. Parents who like the convenience of ready-to-use Pedialyte but dislike having to discard any unused portion after 48 hours often opt for these.
The most significant drawback of these is their slightly higher price. The cost may cancel out, however, if you consider how much money you’re wasting by discarding Pedialyte. These are shelf-stable and won’t go bad for several years.
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How To Store Partially Used Pedialyte
If Pedialyte was administered, but your child did not consume all of it, there are certain ways in which each kind of Pedialyte can be stored.
- Pedialyte Pops that have been opened but remain uneaten should be discarded rather than preserved for a later time.
- Beverages that have been made with powder should be kept in the refrigerator and thrown away if they have not been consumed within an hour.
- Pedialyte bottles that have been opened should be kept in the refrigerator, and any portion that has not been consumed within 48 hours should be thrown away.
- Boxes of juice that have only been partially eaten should be placed in the refrigerator and thrown out if they are not finished within one hour.
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The Takeaway By Sharon
When it comes to rehydrating, Pedialyte is an excellent choice for both children and adults. Be certain that you are aware of the dates of expiration so that you can ensure that you always have some on hand, whether it be for your child or yourself.
You and your child may benefit from taking some Pedialyte to avoid going to the emergency room for the treatment of dehydration.
