Should Krill Oil Capsules Be Refrigerated? An Expert’s Guide

Krill oil is a popular supplement that is known for its numerous health benefits. However, many people are unsure about how to properly store their krill oil capsules to ensure that they remain fresh and effective.

Some sources recommend refrigerating the capsules, while others advise against it. So, what’s the truth?

In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to store your krill oil capsules and ensure that they maintain their potency. Whether you’re a long-time user of krill oil or just starting out, this information will help you get the most out of your supplements.

So, let’s dive in!

Should Krill Oil Capsules Be Refrigerated?

One of the most common questions people have about krill oil capsules is whether or not they should be refrigerated. The answer is not a simple one, as there are differing opinions on the matter.

Some sources recommend refrigerating krill oil capsules to keep them fresh and prevent oxidation. This is because krill oil is sensitive to heat and light, which can cause it to break down and lose its potency. Refrigeration can help slow down this process and extend the shelf life of the capsules.

However, other sources advise against refrigerating krill oil capsules. This is because the cold temperature can cause the oil to solidify and make the capsules cloudy. Additionally, some people believe that refrigeration can actually increase the risk of oxidation by exposing the capsules to moisture.

So, what should you do? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific brand of krill oil capsules you are using. Some brands may recommend refrigeration, while others may advise against it.

If you do choose to refrigerate your krill oil capsules, be sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in. You should also avoid freezing them, as this can cause the capsules to burst.

If you decide not to refrigerate your krill oil capsules, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Be sure to check the expiration date regularly and discard any capsules that are past their prime.

The Benefits Of Krill Oil Capsules

Krill oil capsules are a popular supplement due to their numerous health benefits. Krill oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Unlike fish oil, krill oil is also rich in astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the body against free radicals.

Studies have shown that krill oil can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve joint health. It may also have benefits for cognitive function, mood, and skin health.

Krill oil capsules are a convenient way to get all of these benefits without having to consume large amounts of fatty fish. They are also easier to digest and less likely to cause fishy burps or aftertaste.

The Importance Of Proper Storage

Proper storage is crucial when it comes to maintaining the quality and potency of krill oil capsules. Krill oil is sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen, which can cause it to break down and become rancid. This not only affects the taste and smell of the oil but also reduces its effectiveness.

To ensure that your krill oil capsules remain fresh and potent, it is important to store them in an air-tight container to prevent exposure to oxygen. Capsules are already a step towards protecting the oils from exposure to oxygen compared to liquid fish oils, that you buy in bottles. Avoid perforating or cutting your capsules as this can expose the oil to oxygen.

Temperature is another important factor to consider when storing krill oil capsules. High temperatures can accelerate the oxidation process, while low temperatures can cause the oil to solidify and make the capsules cloudy. The best option is to keep your krill oil supplement in a cool, dark place in an air-tight container. A fridge is ideal, but do not freeze it. Even if you live in a warm region, we advise you not to store the product in the refrigerator. If you have kept the capsules in the refrigerator, the product may become cloudy because the oil crystallizes.

Regularly checking the expiration date and discarding any expired capsules is also important to ensure that you are consuming fresh and potent krill oil. Additionally, it is recommended to seek medical advice on how many capsules you should take per day.

Refrigeration: Yes Or No?

When it comes to refrigerating krill oil capsules, there are differing opinions. Some sources recommend it to slow down the oxidation process and extend the shelf life of the capsules. Others advise against it, as the cold temperature can cause the oil to solidify and make the capsules cloudy, while also potentially exposing them to moisture.

Ultimately, whether or not you choose to refrigerate your krill oil capsules depends on personal preference and the specific brand you are using. If you do decide to refrigerate them, make sure to store them in an airtight container and avoid freezing them. If you choose not to refrigerate them, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and regularly check the expiration date. Regardless of your choice, always follow the storage instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the best quality and potency of your krill oil supplements.

Other Factors To Consider When Storing Krill Oil Capsules

Aside from refrigeration, there are other factors to consider when storing krill oil capsules to ensure their freshness and potency. One important factor is protecting the capsules from exposure to oxygen, which can cause oxidation and spoil the oil. To do this, it is best to keep the capsules in an airtight container and avoid perforating or cutting them open.

Another crucial factor is keeping the capsules at low temperatures. Heat and exposure to light can accelerate the oxidation process, so it is best to store the capsules in a cool, dark place. A fridge is ideal for this purpose, but be sure not to freeze them.

It is also important to check the expiration date regularly and discard any capsules that are past their prime. If the oil looks cloudy within the capsule or has a “fishy” smell, it may have gone bad and should be thrown out.

Finally, to ensure that you always have fresh krill oil at hand, consider purchasing from brands that offer subscription boxes. These boxes deliver small amounts of supplements on a regular basis, so you never have to worry about your supply going bad.

Tips For Maintaining Krill Oil Capsule Potency

If you want to ensure that your krill oil capsules remain potent and effective, there are several tips you can follow:

1. Keep them airtight: Krill oil is sensitive to oxygen, which can cause it to oxidize and lose its potency. To prevent this, make sure your capsules are stored in an airtight container.

2. Avoid cutting or perforating the capsules: If you cut or perforate the capsules, you expose the oil inside to oxygen, which can cause it to break down more quickly.

3. Store them at a low temperature: Heat and light can also cause krill oil to break down and lose its effectiveness. To prevent this, store your capsules in a cool, dark place.

4. Consider refrigeration: While some sources advise against refrigerating krill oil capsules, others recommend it as a way to extend their shelf life. If you choose to refrigerate your capsules, be sure to store them in an airtight container and avoid freezing them.

5. Check for signs of spoilage: If your krill oil capsules look cloudy or have a fishy smell, they may have gone bad. Check the expiration date regularly and discard any capsules that are past their prime.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your krill oil capsules remain fresh and potent for as long as possible. However, if you have any concerns or questions about storing your capsules, be sure to consult with a medical professional or the manufacturer of your specific brand of krill oil.

When To Replace Your Krill Oil Capsules

Krill oil capsules, like all dietary supplements, have a shelf life and will eventually expire. It is important to replace your krill oil capsules when they are no longer fresh, as expired capsules may not provide the same health benefits and could potentially cause harm.

The first thing to check is the expiration date on the bottle. Most krill oil capsules have a shelf life of around two years from the date of manufacture. If you have had your capsules for a while, it is important to check the expiration date before consuming them.

Another way to tell if your krill oil capsules are still fresh is by inspecting them visually. If the oil inside the capsule appears cloudy or has a strange odor, it may be a sign that the oil has gone bad. In this case, it is best to discard the capsules and replace them with a new batch.

It is also important to store your krill oil capsules properly to ensure they stay fresh for as long as possible. As mentioned earlier, krill oil is sensitive to heat and light, so it is best to store your capsules in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause them to solidify or burst.

Lastly, it is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions for your specific brand of krill oil capsules. Taking too many capsules can lead to unwanted side effects, while taking too few may not provide the desired health benefits. If you are unsure about how many capsules to take, consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.