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Head of the Oils and Fats Department at the Food Industries and Nutrition Research Institute, National Research Centre.
Flax seed oil (flax oil) is one of the most beneficial and healthy vegetable oils because it contains a high percentage of omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). However, these valuable food ingredients also make it susceptible to rapid deterioration due to oxidation, significantly shortening its shelf life. This article provides a comprehensive guide to maximizing the shelf life of flaxseed oil, from seed selection to final storage, with useful applications for all dietary oils.
- Source and quality: choose flax seeds from a reliable source, with a uniform golden or brown color, free of impurities and mold.
- Oil content: prefer varieties with high oil content (40-45%) and low in free fatty acids (FFA) for a better start.
- Laboratory analysis: perform analyses of humidity (should be less than 8%, foreign matter, and initial peroxide activity before treatment.
- Transportation conditions: transport seeds in well-ventilated containers, away from direct moisture and sunlight.
- Temporary storage: store seeds in a cool (<15°C), dry and dark place, with proper ventilation.
- Pest control: use non-chemical preventive methods such as cooling or inert gases to protect seeds.
- Cold pressing: It is preferable to use cold pressing (Cold Pressing) at temperatures around 40° C.
- Avoid high heat: avoid any way the oil is exposed to high temperatures.
- Oxygen-free extraction: some systems allow extraction in an atmosphere of nitrogen or inert gases.
- Natural filtration: filtration of oil immediately after extraction.
- Cold precipitation: leaving the oil to settle in cold tanks below 10°C.
- Avoid metal filters: to reduce the risk of heavy metal leakage.
- Choose dark glass containers to block light.
- Seal the closure using tight covers.
- Replace oxygen with an inert gas such as nitrogen or CO₂.
- Using specialized filling machines to ensure the efficiency of the gas replacement process.
- Store containers in a cool place 4-8 °C
- Keep it in complete darkness away from light.
- Prevent repeated shaking or moving of containers.
1. Buy smartly: choose flaxseed oil packaged in dark glass bottles.
2. Home storage: immediately after opening, store the oil in the refrigerator.
3. How to use: Do not use oil for cooking, but add it to cold foods.
4. Proper handling: close the packaging immediately after use and avoid introducing contaminated items.
Extending the shelf life of flaxseed oil is an integrated process that starts from seed selection and ends with conscious consumption. By controlling heat, light, oxygen, and heavy metals, a high quality product can be guaranteed. Consumer awareness of its role is essential to maintain the nutritional value and health benefits of this oil. These principles not only benefit linseed oil producers, but also constitute a standard for all sensitive food oils.
