When it comes to purchasing and using our various test kits, one of the most important considerations is often shelf life. The answer to this question directly determines how many kits you plan to purchase. The shelf life must be long enough to ensure you can use up the product before it expires. But what exactly does shelf life mean, and how do various factors affect the lifespan of the test kits? Here, we’ll go through some common questions and tips to help you maximize the lifespan of your test kits.
What does "shelf life" mean for an analysis kit?
In this context, shelf life refers to how long an assay kit retains its functionality and reliability before it expires, which is often indicated by a “best before” date. After this date, test results may become unreliable, which can lead to incorrect conclusions.
Manufacturers typically provide an estimate of how long the kite will perform optimally, but there are several factors that can affect its actual lifespan.
What factors can affect shelf life?
- Storage conditions: Temperature, humidity, and light exposure are critical for keeping test kits in good condition. Excessive heat or humidity can damage the chemical reagents, while temperatures that are too cold can reduce their effectiveness. Certain types of tests can also be negatively affected if stored upside down (i.e., liquids flow downward). Therefore, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s storage recommendations, typically in a cool, dry place and stored upright.
- Sealing and packaging: Kits that have been opened or whose seals have been damaged may deteriorate more quickly than the manufacturer specifies. Therefore, it is important to take care to keep the kit unopened until it is time to use it.
- Handling and transport: If an assay kit is subjected to shocks, vibrations, or extreme temperature fluctuations during transport, this may affect its shelf life. We recommend choosing a supplier that guarantees safe handling during transport.
How can you maximize the shelf life of diagnostic kits?
- Store properly: Always follow the manufacturer’s storage recommendations and keep the kit in a controlled environment.
- Rotate inventory: Be sure to use the oldest kits first (FIFO – First In, First Out) to prevent old kits from becoming unusable.
- Check regularly: Inspect the kit packaging and expiration dates to make sure they haven’t passed their best-by date.
- Train staff: Ensure that everyone who handles test kits in the organization understands the importance of proper storage and handling to maximize their shelf life.
What do the manufacturers say about durability?
Most manufacturers specify a specific best-before date for each test kit. This is based on extensive testing to determine how long the reagents and materials in the kit remain effective under ideal conditions. Typically, this translates to a shelf life of between 12 and 24 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the type of kit.
Can we trust the manufacturers' claims?
In general, manufacturers’ shelf-life information is reliable, but only if the kits are stored according to their specifications. If storage and handling are not done correctly, the kits may deteriorate sooner than indicated. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the kits yourself before use and to follow proper procedures to avoid unnecessary errors.
Hygiene Diagnostics' Sustainability Policy
The expiration dates for test kits with a limited shelf life are indicated on the product. In the online store, the theoretical maximum shelf life of test kits is listed, calculated from the date of manufacture (i.e., the shelf life specified by the manufacturer). We guarantee at least half of the maximum shelf life at the time of sale to the customer for all products we keep in our inventory, unless we notify the customer otherwise. In general, the shelf life is much longer, but if you have questions about shelf life, pleasecontact usbefore placing an order.
We go to great lengths to keep our products in top condition and ensure their shelf life, but some items—such as contact plates — contact plates have relatively short shelf lives even when we receive them from the manufacturer.
Examples of shelf life for various products
- Dipslidescontact plates a shelf life of up to 8 months if stored in a cool, dry place at 8–15 degrees. They should not be stored in the refrigerator.
- Petrifilm har en hållbarhet upp till 18 månader vid kylförvaring <8C.
- WarmMark Indikatorer har hållbarheter 12-24 månader om de förvaras i en torr miljö (<55% relativ luftfuktighet) och under reaktionstemperaturen.
- Clean-Trace ATPcan be stored at room temperature for up to 4 weeks, but to ensure a shelf life of 10 months, they should be refrigeratedat 2–8°C.
- Accupoint ATP(surface)can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, but to ensure a shelf life of 9 months, they should be refrigeratedat 2–8°C.
Here’s how to store Neogen (3M) products for optimal shelf life.
Conclusion
Keeping track of the shelf life of your test kits is essential to ensuring that you obtain reliable results in your internal quality control tests. By following proper storage procedures and staying up to date on expiration dates, you can maximize the kits’ shelf life and quality. It’s also important to be aware that even though the manufacturer’s shelf life information is a guideline, improper storage can shorten the kits’ shelf life.
If you’d like to learn more about the sustainability of your products, please don’t hesitate to contact us.