We do plan our vacations in summer to enjoy the long holidays with loved ones. But when the temperature hits, it not only gives you the good summer tan but also makes it challenging for supplement users. Higher temperatures cost your vitamins and powders more than you might think.
Many supplements, especially those with omega-3s, probiotics , or vitamins A, D, and E, are sensitive to heat, light, oxygen, and moisture. Improper storage during hot weather can lead to faster degradation, reduced efficacy, or even rancidity in some cases.
Table of Contents
Why Summer Can Impact Supplement Quality
High temperatures and prolonged sun exposure accelerate oxidation and breakdown in certain nutrients. Research suggests that polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, are particularly susceptible to rancidity when exposed to heat and light.
Even encapsulated products aren’t immune. While capsule coatings can offer some protection, fluctuations in temperature during shipping or storage can reduce their potency over time.
Summer Supplement Storage: Best Practices
1. Mind the Temperature
Most supplements fare best at or below 25°C (77°F). During heat waves, consider storing them in a cool cabinet away from windows, ovens, or other heat-producing appliances.
For liquid oils or probiotics, a refrigerator is often the safest bet. According to supplement professionals, refrigeration helps slow oxidation, especially for DHA-rich fish oils and natural cosmetic-grade oils.
2. Avoid Moisture and Light
Humidity can degrade capsules and powders. Store bottles in their original containers with silica packets intact. Choose dark, airtight packaging whenever possible to block UV rays and oxygen exposure.
Traveling with Supplements: Smart, Simple Strategies
Whether you're boarding a plane or heading out on a road trip, traveling with supplements is perfectly doable with a bit of planning.
- TSA-Friendly Tips Capsules and tablets: No quantity restrictions. You can pack them in pill organizers or travel-sized containers.
- Powders (such as collagen or protein): Allowed in carry-ons, but quantities exceeding 12 oz may be screened separately. Store in labeled, sealed bags or jars.
- Liquids must be under 3.4 oz (100 mL) in carry-ons. Many liquid supplements come in travel sizes or single-serve droppers.
Save Your Supplements!
Your omega-3, probiotics, and the goodness of all other supplements are important tools in your arsenal as they help to balance the immunological system, energy, and the digestive system especially when on the road.
But their benefits can be reduced by heat, moisture, and poor packaging. A couple of packing tips and smart storage solutions can help you keep your wellness essentials powerful, ready, and on the go.
In case of any doubt, find advice on storage on product labels or make use of more portable, heat-stable preparations. Little planning is very important so that your summer wellness regimen might work well.
