Peptide Storage & Handling Guide
Proper storage is critical for maintaining peptide potency and safety. Peptides are proteins that degrade when exposed to heat, light, moisture, and bacterial contamination. Understanding storage requirements at each stage—unreconstituted, reconstituted, and during transport—ensures your research materials remain viable throughout their usable life.
Key Points
Step-by-Step Guide
Store Lyophilized Peptides
Unreconstituted peptides should be stored at -20°C (freezer) for long-term storage or 2-8°C (refrigerator) for short-term (weeks). Keep in original sealed vials away from light.
Store Reconstituted Peptides
After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, store at 2-8°C (refrigerator). Use within 28 days. Never freeze reconstituted peptides.
Protect from Light
Many peptides are photosensitive. Store vials in their original box or wrap in foil. Avoid leaving vials on countertops under artificial or natural light.
Handle Shipping Carefully
Lyophilized peptides can tolerate brief temperature excursions during shipping. Reconstituted peptides should be shipped on cold packs. Inspect seals upon receipt.
Inspect Before Each Use
Before drawing from a reconstituted vial, check for cloudiness, particles, discoloration, or unusual odor. Discard any vial that shows signs of contamination or degradation.
Warnings & Precautions
- !Heat is the primary enemy—never leave peptides at room temperature for extended periods.
- !Freezing reconstituted peptides destroys protein structure through ice crystal formation.
- !Light exposure degrades certain peptides within hours.
- !Contamination from non-sterile technique can render an entire vial unsafe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do unreconstituted peptides last?
Properly stored at -20°C, most lyophilized peptides remain stable for 12-24 months. At refrigerator temperature (2-8°C), shelf life is typically 3-6 months. Check the manufacturer date for specific guidance.
Can peptides survive shipping without cold packs?
Lyophilized peptides can tolerate brief ambient temperature exposure during transit (1-3 days). Reconstituted peptides require cold chain shipping. If a lyophilized peptide arrives warm but the seal is intact, it is likely fine.
What happens if I accidentally freeze a reconstituted peptide?
Freezing creates ice crystals that can physically damage the peptide structure, causing denaturation and aggregation. The peptide may appear cloudy after thawing. Discard any reconstituted peptide that has been frozen.
Related Guides
Peptide Dosage Calculator
Use our free calculator to determine the correct dosage, reconstitution volume, and injection amount for your research peptides.