If you’re wondering whether to get rid of your expired 23andMe kit or just use it and hope it still works, you aren’t alone. Genetic testing is growing in popularity, with millions worldwide purchasing at-home DNA test kits. These kits aren’t cheap, so dealing with an expired kit can be challenging. What can you do with an expired DNA test kit? Will 23andMe provide a free replacement? This article will answer these questions and more.
How To Download Your DNA Raw Data From 23andMe
About 23andMe
23andMe is a genetic testing company based in the United States.
It was founded in 2006 and has since gained popularity as a Direct-to-Consumer genetic testing company.
23andMe uses the data that they collect from their users for research.
They used genetic test data to determine which groups of people were more vulnerable to the coronavirus and needed immediate vaccination.
The company provides top-quality genetic DNA testing kits.
Understanding the Shelf Life of 23andMe Kits: Do They Expire?
23andMe kits do expire.
The date of expiration is mentioned on the side of the collection tube in the 23andMe kit, labeled “collect saliva by.”
This date is related to the shelf life of the stabilizing liquid that protects the DNA sample.
Some customers have purchased kits from unauthorized resellers that expire within a few days.
Thus, buying DNA kits directly from 23andMe’s official website is always advisable.
Image source: 23andMe website
What Happens When You Use An Expired Kit?
Some customers have reported using kits up to two years past their expiry dates.
23andMe mentions that the stabilizing liquid in the kit can last up to 6 months in transit.
DNA Genotek, the company that manufactures these kits, mentions that the stabilizing liquid in the kit can last up to five years.
If in doubt, try using the old kit and see if it’s working.
You could ship it back and request a replacement if it isn't.
Does 23andMe Replace An Expired Kit Free Of Charge?
A DNA sample in an expired kit might be hard to extract and analyze.
In case of an expired kit, it’s recommended that you contact 23andMe’s customer care service.
The company performs a quality check using basic order information to ensure the kit wasn’t bought from an unauthorized reseller.
Afterward, they typically replace the old equipment free of cost.
However, according to their replacement policy, a new kit can only be shipped to the country from where you placed the original order.
23andMe will only send out one replacement kit.
Afterward, users can request a refund on their order.
Summary: Do 23andMe Kits Expire?
- 23andMe is a prevalent genetic testing company that provides direct-to-consumer DNA testing kits.
- Their kits contain a stabilizing fluid with an expiry date.
- You can always return expired DNA testing kits.
- In genuine cases, 23andMe will replace the kit for free as a one-time gesture.
- Afterward, users will be eligible for a refund on their order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get A Replacement For A 23andMe Expired Kit On Ebay?
While the company may replace the kit, they are more likely to send it to the original shipping address.
Buying your kits from 23andMe’s official website would be ideal.
What Is The Liquid In The 23andMe Collection Kit?
The liquid is a buffer that mixes with your saliva sample after you collect it.
It stabilizes your sample, preventing bacterial contamination or spoilage before it is analyzed.
How Long Is A 23andMe Test Good For?
Before sample collection, the kit is viable for up to a year.
However, once the kit is used to collect your DNA, the stabilizing fluid will expire within six months.
It’s best to ship the kit back at the earliest.
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References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/23065-dna-test--genetic-testing
