Does Salmon Oil Need To Be Refrigerated? The Definitive Guide on Proper Storage

Because it has so many great nutrients, salmon oil has become a more popular supplement in recent years. It’s full of omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, which are good for both people and animals’ health in many ways. But there is a very important question that people often have about storage: does salmon oil need to be kept in the fridge after it has been opened?

The short answer is yes refrigeration is highly recommended for salmon oil once the bottle has been opened. However as you’ll see below, proper storage of salmon oil involves more than just tossing it in the fridge. There are several guidelines you should follow to help maintain freshness and maximize shelf life.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain why refrigeration is so crucial for salmon oil how to store it properly, signs that it has gone bad and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!

Why Refrigerate Salmon Oil?

There are two main reasons why keeping salmon oil cool is important for its shelf life:

1. Prevent Oxidation

Salmon oil consists mostly of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. The chemical structure of these compounds makes them highly prone to oxidation, which causes them to break down into compounds that can have negative health effects.

Oxidation is accelerated by exposure to heat, light, and oxygen. Keeping salmon oil chilled in the fridge significantly slows down this process to maintain freshness and nutritional quality.

2. Avoid Rancidity

In addition to losing potency, salmon oil that has oxidized will take on an unpleasant odor and taste described as fishy, grassy, or rancid. The saturated fats in salmon oil are especially vulnerable to rancidity.

Refrigeration helps prevent the breakdown of fats that lead to these off-putting sensory changes. Properly stored salmon oil will maintain a light scent and mild flavor.

Proper Refrigerated Storage of Salmon Oil

Now that you know why refrigeration is non-negotiable for salmon oil, let’s discuss how to store it correctly in the fridge:

• Use an opaque, airtight container – Light and oxygen speed up oxidation, so storing salmon oil in an airtight, opaque container is ideal for blocking these factors. Keep it in the original bottle or transfer to a tinted glass jar.

• Store in the back of the bottom shelf – To keep salmon oil consistently chilled, store it in the coldest part of the fridge, like the back of the bottom shelf. Avoid shelf doors where temperature fluctuates.

• Minimize air exposure – Limiting air contact by keeping bottles full and tightly sealed prevents oxygen from reacting with the oil’s compounds. Transferring some oil to a smaller bottle helps achieve this.

• Keep away from odorous foods – Fishy, acidic, or pungent foods in the fridge can impart unpleasant smells and flavors to salmon oil, so keep bottles sealed and far from these items.

• Check expiration date – Salmon oil stored properly in the fridge should retain quality for 6-8 months. But always verify with the expiration date and toss bottles once past it.

Following these refrigerated storage guidelines will help your salmon oil stay fresh, nutritious, and pleasant tasting for many months.

Signs Your Salmon Oil Has Gone Bad

Despite best storage practices, salmon oil will eventually degrade in quality and become inedible. Here are some telltale signs that your oil has gone bad and needs to be discarded:

• Strong, fishy odor – Rancid salmon oil gives off an overtly fishy, grassy, or paint-like smell you’ll notice as soon as the bottle is opened.

• Change in color – Oxidized oil takes on a deeper yellow/orange hue and may look cloudy instead of clear.

• Unpleasant taste – Bad salmon oil tastes bitter, metallic, or otherwise off. Even a small taste should make it readily apparent.

• GI distress – Rancid oil can cause nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea if consumed, signaling food safety issues.

• Expired – Once past the expiration date, toss salmon oil even if there are no discernible sensory changes. Nutrient levels and safety decline over time.

When in doubt, remember – “When smelly, time to toss it belly!”

Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerating Salmon Oil

Let’s wrap up with answers to some common questions on properly storing salmon oil:

How long does salmon oil last in the fridge?
Around 6-8 months when stored correctly in an airtight opaque container in the coldest section of the refrigerator. Always defer to the expiration date on your specific product.

Can salmon oil be frozen?
Yes, freezing prolongs shelf life even further, provided you use freezer-safe packaging. Thaw completely before use.

Is it safe to leave salmon oil unrefrigerated?
No, without refrigeration salmon oil will oxidize rapidly, reducing benefits. Only keep at room temperature for brief periods.

Can I take salmon oil capsules traveling without refrigerating?
Try to keep capsules cool and away from heat/light as much as possible. Refrigerate once home.

How should I dispose of expired salmon oil?
Rancid oil can be safely tossed in the regular household trash (check local guidelines). Do not pour down drains.

Can rancid salmon oil make you sick?
Consuming oxidized oil may cause temporary nausea, stomach upset, and other symptoms, so don’t use if smells/tastes off.

Does freezing affect salmon oil quality?
Freezing is an acceptable storage method, though some separation may occur after thawing. Shake well before use.

Can I mix salmon oil into my pet’s meals without refrigerating?
No, always refrigerate leftover oil-food mixes. Leaving at room temperature promotes faster spoilage.

Can I store salmon oil in the pantry or cupboard?
No, the pantry is too warm and exposes salmon oil to oxygen/light. Refrigeration is a must.