Do maca root extracts need to be stored away from light? Storage conditions and techniques for extending shelf life

The storage conditions of Maca root extract directly affect the stability and shelf life of its active ingredients. Whether to avoid light, specific storage requirements, and techniques to extend shelf life need to be comprehensively judged based on the characteristics and forms of its ingredients (powder, capsule, etc.), as follows:

1、 Do maca root extracts need to be stored away from light?   

It needs to be stored away from light, especially during long-term storage.   

The core active ingredients of maca root extract (such as macaamide and macaene) and some vitamins (such as vitamin B and vitamin C derivatives), plant polyphenols, etc. are sensitive to light (especially ultraviolet light). Ultraviolet radiation and strong light can accelerate the oxidation reaction of these ingredients, leading to degradation of active ingredients, weakened efficacy, and even the production of small amounts of oxidation products, which can affect product safety.   

Therefore, whether in powder, capsule or liquid form, it is recommended to avoid direct sunlight or strong light exposure during storage (such as window sills or areas with direct lighting), and prioritize placing them in dark cabinets, drawers or opaque containers.   

2、 Core storage conditions for maca root extract

In addition to avoiding sunlight and coolness, it is also necessary to consider temperature, humidity, and sealing, which together determine storage stability:

1. Temperature: cool and dry, avoid high temperatures

The suitable temperature is 15-25 ℃ (in a cool and shady place at room temperature), and avoid environments exceeding 30 ℃ (such as near the kitchen stove or heating). High temperature can accelerate the volatilization and oxidation of components, especially powdered extracts that may clump and deteriorate due to high temperature.   

Attention: Refrigeration is not necessary (unless otherwise specified in the product manual). Refrigeration may cause condensation of moisture on the inner walls of the container due to changes in humidity, which may increase the risk of moisture absorption.   

2. Humidity: Strictly prevent moisture and control environmental humidity

The environmental humidity should be below 60%, as humidity can cause the extract to absorb moisture, clump, and breed mold (especially in powder form). It is recommended to store the product in a dry storage cabinet. A small amount of desiccant (such as silicone desiccant, which should be replaced regularly) can be placed in the storage area, or the outer layer of the container can be wrapped in a sealed bag to isolate moisture.   

3. Sealing: Reduce air contact and prevent oxidation

After each use, tighten the bottle cap/sealed bag to avoid long-term entry of air (including oxygen) that may cause oxidation of the ingredients. If the original packaging has a large opening (such as a large bottle of powder), it can be divided into small capacity sealed bottles to reduce air contact during repeated opening.   

3、 Practical tips for extending shelf life

The shelf life of maca root extract is usually 18-24 months (unopened state), and after opening, the shelf life will be shortened to 6-12 months (depending on storage conditions), which can be extended by the following techniques:

1. Pack small doses to reduce repeated opening

If the original packaging is a large specification (such as 500g or more powder), immediately pack it into multiple small capacity sealed bottles (such as 100g/bottle) after opening, and only take one bottle at a time. The remaining unopened small bottles should continue to be stored in the dark and sealed to reduce the overall risk of oxidation and moisture.   

2. Add food grade desiccant

Place 1-2 packs of food grade silicone desiccant in the storage container (ensuring that the desiccant is not damaged), regularly check the condition of the desiccant (replace it promptly after it becomes damp), which can effectively absorb moisture and prevent clumping.   

3. Mark the opening date and prioritize the use of old products

After opening, mark the date on the packaging and follow the principle of "open first, use first" to avoid expiration due to forgetting to use after storage for too long.   

4. Avoid frequent contact with hands or damp tools

When using powdered extracts, try to use a dry spoon and avoid direct contact with hands; Immediately cover the lid after use to reduce contact time with humid air.   

5. Choose products with light shielding packaging

When purchasing, priority should be given to products packaged in brown glass bottles, aluminum foil bags, or opaque plastic bottles (with built-in light blocking properties), which can reduce the impact of light on the ingredients and lower storage pressure from the source compared to transparent packaging.   

Summary

Maca root extract contains easily oxidizable active ingredients and needs to be stored away from light. The core storage principles are "away from light, cool, dry, and sealed". By controlling temperature and humidity, strengthening sealing, and combining packaging and moisture-proof techniques, the shelf life can be effectively extended to ensure the stability of its active ingredients and efficacy. If lumps, odors, or darkening of color (abnormal browning) are found in the extract, it may have deteriorated and it is recommended to stop using it.