Storing raw propolis in dark amber glass bottles at -20 °C is the recommended standard for preserving its chemical stability and bioactivity. This specific protocol creates a dual-layer defense system: the glass blocks harmful ultraviolet radiation, while the freezing temperature arrests biological degradation. Adhering to this method ensures the material remains chemically intact for accurate laboratory analysis or high-quality processing.
This storage method prevents the photodegradation of sensitive compounds and minimizes the loss of volatile organics, effectively freezing the propolis's chemical profile in time.
Shielding Against Light Degradation
The Barrier of Dark Amber Glass
Raw propolis contains complex compounds that are highly sensitive to environmental factors. Dark amber glass provides a critical optical barrier against ultraviolet (UV) light. Standard clear glass or plastic containers allow UV rays to penetrate the sample, initiating rapid chemical breakdown.
Preserving Phenols and Flavonoids
The primary victims of light exposure are bioactive compounds, specifically phenols and flavonoids. These components are responsible for much of the therapeutic value and chemical signature of propolis. Photodegradation changes their structure, which compromises the quality of the material and leads to inaccurate results during chemical profiling.
The Role of Freezing Temperatures
Inhibiting Enzymatic Reactions
Biological materials like propolis contain enzymes that can continue to react even after harvesting. Maintaining a temperature of -20 °C effectively inhibits these enzymatic reactions. By stopping these internal processes, you prevent the natural decay of the material.
Retaining Volatile Compounds
Propolis is rich in volatile organic compounds that contribute to its aroma and biological function. At room temperature, or even standard refrigeration, these compounds can slowly evaporate or degrade. Freezing the sample ensures these volatiles are retained within the matrix, preserving the full chemical integrity of the raw propolis.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Freezing vs. Standard Refrigeration
While industrial refrigeration at 4 °C can inhibit enzymatic hydrolysis and degradation of active resins, it is not an absolute halt to biological activity. Refrigeration is often sufficient for short-term holding or bulk processing preparation. However, it does not provide the same long-term stability for volatile components as deep freezing.
Equipment Requirements
The shift from 4 °C to -20 °C requires specialized freezing equipment rather than standard industrial refrigeration. This increases energy costs and logistical complexity. However, if the goal is rigorous chemical analysis, the risk of volatile loss at 4 °C outweighs the convenience of standard refrigeration.
Ensuring Sample Integrity
To maintain the highest quality of raw propolis, match your storage method to your end goal:
- If your primary focus is precise laboratory analysis: Store samples strictly at -20 °C in dark amber glass to guarantee the preservation of volatiles and prevent enzymatic changes.
- If your primary focus is short-term processing: Storage at 4 °C is a viable alternative to prevent thermal denaturation of polyphenols, though it offers less protection for volatile compounds.
Proper storage is the foundational step that dictates the reliability of every subsequent test or product formulation.
Summary Table:
| Storage Factor | Recommended Method | Benefit Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Container Material | Dark Amber Glass | Blocks UV radiation and prevents photodegradation |
| Temperature | -20 °C (Deep Freeze) | Inhibits enzymatic reactions and arrests biological decay |
| Compound Security | Sealed Airtight | Retains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and aroma |
| Light Protection | Optical Barrier | Preserves sensitive phenols and flavonoids from structural change |
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References
- Dılhun Keriman Arserim‐Uçar, Ramazan Solmaz. Bingöl Propolis İzolatlarının Biyolojik Aktivitesinin, Lipofilik ve Uçucu Organik Bileşenlerinin Belierlenmesi. DOI: 10.46810/tdfd.776424
This article is also based on technical information from HonestBee Knowledge Base .
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