How fish oil liquid and capsules are properly stored is a vital part in the process that will keep them fresh and potent for as long as possible. 

But if fish oil isn’t stored properly and tightly, it can turn bad. This happens because of oxidation. This is due to the chemical reaction of oxidation. Fish oil is prone to oxidation when exposed to light, heat or air. Rancid fish oil smells bad because of their loss of omega-3 fatty acids. It is essential to be aware of the storage methods that minimize the exposure of fish oil to such elements. 

Continue reading this article to learn how to safely store fish oil capsules. Therefore, you can keep them as powerful as they are and enjoy their benefits at the same time.

Why Does Fish Oil Spoil?

Fish oil in any form is a preferred supplement for many people. Of course, fish oil, just like any other product, is subject to spoilage. So, it is important to know why and when it can go bad in order to maintain its potency and effectiveness.

  • Oxidation

The main factor to oilfish’s foulness is its oxidation. PUFA, in particular, found in fish oil, are considered to be very unstable due to their ability to oxidize quickly under the influence of oxygen, heat, and light. This way of reacting gives birth to free radicals which can make the oil to become rancid, with the result being that it to acquire a bad smell and taste.

  • Exposure to Light

Fish oil degradation occurs faster in the presence of light, especially ultraviolet (UV) light, due to a basically oxidative mechanism. Therefore, fish oil products are usually sold in dark or opaque bottles mainly to avoid light penetration and increase the products’ usefulness.

  • High Temperature

Oxidation rates of fish oils can also be boosted by high temperatures. Putting fish oil in warm or humid places shortens the time it takes to decompose, which causes bad smell.

  • Air Exposure

Oxidation occurs because of fatty acids in fish oil. And the possibility of oxidation increases when the oil is exposed to air during storage. It is for this reason that considering the sealed containers as an option is the right way for the preservation of the freshness of fish oil.

How To Identify Spoiled Fish Oil Liquid or Capsules?

In order to avoid eating the bad fish oil and its consequences, like consuming rancid one, which can be harmful and may counteract all benefits, it is crucial to know how to identify spoiled fish oil. 

  • Foul Odor — Fish oil made rancid gives off a bad smell like that of the fish or paint thinner.
  • Off-putting Taste — Fish oil that has gone bad could taste bitter and only leave an aftertaste.
  • Appearance — Try a sample of the oil and see if any discoloration or cloudiness is visible. These are symptoms of oxidation.

Can You Refrigerate Fish Oil?

Refrigerating liquid fish oils makes them last longer and create higher concentrations of active ingredients, especially if you live in a hot climate or a place with temperature swings. In case you want cold storage for fish oil, the following is what you should know:

  • Solidification

By refrigerating liquid fish oil, you will be achieving extra freshness and the effect it will have in potency under hot climate, or those environments where room temperature is fluctuating significantly will be increased. From storage and transportation, oil to consumption and storage, here are some environmental considerations.

  • Container Material

Keep in mind that the container which holds the fish oil should be refrigerated. The main characteristic of glass bottles is their suitability for refrigeration, but some plastic containers may not be designed to survive the temperature fluctuation.

  • Odor Absorption

Fish oil is a type of fat which has noticeable odor and can spread to other food if you don’t store it properly. Keep the fish oil in a particular corner of the fridge where it is not exposed to strong-smelling foods so that odor transfer can be avoided.

04 Ways to Properly Store Fish Oil Liquid or Capsules

People often fail to appreciate the worth of storing fish oil properly, in order to maintain the effectiveness as well as condition of these supplements.

  • Submerge in a Cool Water Bath

To regulating the temperature of the liquid fish oil naturally, there is a way called water bath. For this, you should first fill a container with cool water and then let the bottle of the oil sink into it. Therefore, you can eliminate the need for refrigerating. 

Furthermore, secure the bottle tightly to not let the water enter into it. If anyone cannot vacate space in the refrigerator for placing fish oil bottle, this idea of water bath is perfect. 

  • DIY Insulated Storage Box

Consider creating a storage box by utilizing the materials like insulating foam or polyfoam boards. For this purpose, you should first cut the pieces in square shape and then join them together. Such a box can effortlessly contain bottles, capsules and fish oil containers. 

To reduce the changes of temperature, such an insulated box is apt. In return, the product will experience the coolness, blocking the heat sources. 

  • Vacuum-Sealed Packs for Capsules

Vacuum sealing servings and packs are also beneficial for fish oil supplements. Prior to tight sealing, take out the air from the tiny pouches or capsule containers by using a vacuum sealer machine. 

This is useful for minimizing the exposure of such supplements to air, hence, limiting oxidation. This way, you can consume fresh serving. Also, this approach is highly convenient and ensures the retaining of the capsule potency. 

  • Dark and Airtight Wooden Box

If you have a wooden box with lid at home, use for the efficient storage of fish oil supplements. If not, then create one. The inclusion of dark colored fabric inside the box can help to restrict the exposure to light. 

For the prevention of the entrance of air inside the box, the lid should possess airtight seal. For a cool as well as dark atmosphere for fish oil supplements, you should definitely use such a box. 

Bottom Line; Preserve the Effectiveness of Your Fish Oils

For availing the pleasant features or benefits of fish oil supplements, it is imperative to consider their proper storage. This way, the supplements will remain in good condition for a longer period of time while emitting properties like fr