Great Ways To Store Coconut Oil and Prevent it From Spoiling
What is Coconut Oil?
Though coconut oil is derived from a plant source, coconut oil is considered saturated fat because it contains a high concentration of saturated fatty acids. This prevents the oil from oxidizing at high temperatures, making it a cooking oil like other vegetable oils.
Coconut oil is present in both refined and unrefined forms. Both these processes involve extracting the white part of ripe coconut from its shell.
Both these types of coconut oil are effective for various different purposes. It is often good for skincare. Refined oil is often used for cooking because of its high smoke point of 440. It is also a good choice for baking or for salad dressings.
A study (source) suggests that Coconut oil contains lauric acid. When lauric acid enters the human body it gets converted to monolaurin, which is known as immunity enhancing compound.
A diet that consists of coconut oil is also known to boost energy levels, a rise in metabolism, and thus helps reduce body weight.
For How Long Does Coconut Oil Last?
As coconut oil takes a long time for oxidation when properly stored, the oil often lasts for about two years when protected against sunlight and contaminants. Virgin and refined coconut oil have varying shelf lives. Virgin coconut oil can be in good condition for at least five years, whereas refined coconut oil has a shelf life of 18 months to 2 years from the date of its refining.
Where Should You Store Coconut Oil ?
It’s good to keep coconut oil in a dark place for food safety reasons. However, it does not require any sort of special storage apparatus to keep it fresh for a long time. It can be kept with pantry products since it doesn’t require refrigeration but can also be stored in the refrigerator if you prefer it chilled.
There’s actually one major advantage, though, to keep coconut oil in the fridge instead of the pantry. Cold temperatures will cause the oil to solidify into a curdled form, and allow it to stay fresh for as long as possible.
Coconut oil in solid form can be harder to use. But as it has a low melting point it is quick to liquify when taken out and left at room temperature.
If you wish to apply coconut oil as a moisturizer, or a hair mask or as a beauty application, it’s good to store it at room temperature so that it will be easier to spread. However, it’s important to store coconut oil in an airtight container to help it stay fresh for longer periods.
What Type of Airtight Container Should Be Used ?
Depending upon your needs, you can purchase coconut oil as it is available in different types and sizes of packaging.
Storing your coconut oil in metal containers is not desirable as the oil can react with the metal, causing it to have an unpleasant smell and potentially making it harmful to use.
If you purchase your coconut oil in a container that helps it stay protected from sunlight, that is best as it helps to increase its shelf life.
Where to Store Coconut Oil ?
You can store coconut oil in any dark, dry place in your home. It may be spots like the kitchen cupboard, or if you wish to keep it in the shelf of your bedroom.
However, do not keep your coconut oil bottle or jar in the bathroom. Constantly changing temperatures and moisture from the air can have a negative effect on coconut oil’s freshness.
Also be sure to keep it away from direct sunlight, which can have similar adverse effects.
Extend the Shelf Life of Your Coconut Oil
Extending the shelf life of your coconut oil is easy if you take care while storing it. Try to keep it in dry places where it won’t have constant change in temperature or light.
That’s why a kitchen pantry may be one of the best locations to store your coconut oil.
Also ensure that the bottle or jar in which coconut oil is kept is sealed tightly so that it is protected against dirt, bacteria and other contaminants.
Try to use a good coconut oil and follow the methods mentioned above to store it safely.