Many vitamin supplement labels recommend storing your product in a cool, dry location. Although the refrigerator may seem like an ideal place for storing your vitamins, the fridge's condensation and moisture accumulation may decrease their shelf life. For best results, avoid the refrigerator for short-term vitamin storage, and select a cabinet, closet or other cool, dry location instead.
Storing Your Vitamins
According to Purdue University, moisture significantly decreases the nutritional quality and shelf life of your vitamins. Certain supplements, such as vitamin C, can lose their effectiveness within a week of being exposed to water. If your vitamins are made from pressed tablets, they may be more porous and subject to oxidation, while sugar-coated or capsule vitamins may last slightly longer. Unless your label bears special instructions, keep your vitamins in a cool, dry location away from light, preferably in an airtight container.
Vitamins In The Refridgerator
Vitamins stored in airtight containers may be able to remain stable and effective for four to five years, according to chemist Glen Shue, quoted in a 1981 article from "The New York Times." Condensation and moisture are the most common culprits for vitamin degradation, and can significantly reduce how long your vitamins can last if stored in the refrigerator. Since condensation can accumulate in bottles kept the fridge that are frequently opened, it is generally recommended that you not store regularly consumed supplements there. However, if you have vitamins that you aren't taking on a regular basis, the refrigerator may be an ideal storage location as long as your product is stored untouched in an airtight container.
Short-Term Storage
The best options for short-term vitamin storage are areas that do not contain excess moisture. While cabinets in your bathroom or kitchen may seem convenient, moisture from your shower or meal preparations may get caught inside the bottle, reducing the effectiveness and shelf life of your vitamins. For ideal short-term storage, select an area of your home that does not receive direct sunlight and remains cool and dry throughout the day, such as a linen closet or chest of drawers.
Safety Concerns
Depending on your diet and nutritional needs, vitamin supplements may not be necessary to receive your recommended daily values. Some vitamins can be unhealthy if taken in excess, while others may cause negative reactions in some individuals. Talk to your doctor before adding large quantities of vitamin supplements to your diet to reduce the risk of negative side effects.
References
- "New York Times"; Consumer Saturday: Storing Vitamins, From A to K; February 14, 1981
- Purdue University; Vitamins Stored in Bathrooms, Kitchens May Be Less Effective; Brian Wallheimer; March 2, 2010
- CBS News; Best Places to Store Your Vitamins; May 7 2010
- The Mayo Clinic; If You Choose to Take Vitamins as Supplements, Stick to the RDA; Donald Hensrud; April 22, 2011
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