To better understand the storage conditions of animal oil, it is necessary to learn more about the main factors affecting its corruption:
Oxygen:
When the oil is exposed to the air, the unsaturated fatty acids present in it combine with oxygen and so called oxidation, and of course, the higher the amount of these fatty acids, the greater the sensitivity of the oil to the presence of oxygen. becomes It is better not to contact the oil with the open air as much as possible.
Water Activity (Water Activity):
To prepare animal oil, the butter is slowly heated until the water content reaches 0.2%, which reduces the water activity (WA) and finally prevents the activity of many microorganisms. will be This greatly reduces the rate of spoilage in animal oil.
Light radiation:
Direct light, especially sunlight, is one of the factors that aggravate the oxidation process. In order to reduce the possibility of oil oxidation, it is better to store the oil in a dark place.
Heat:
Another effective factor in the spoilage of animal oil is the heat to which the oil is exposed. At high temperatures, this oil produces blue smoke and then black smoke, which is a sign of its corruption. When the oil reaches the smoke point, it produces white foam and a poisonous substance called acrolein, which is pathogenic.
The presence of oil in the microbial and talented environment:
Microbes can be considered hydrolyzing (decomposing) or oxidizing agents of oil, also some microorganisms produce fat-soluble pigments that penetrate into the fat cells and change the color of the oil. Proper storage of animal oil not only increases its shelf life, but is also effective in preserving its original flavor and properties, and we should know that the purer and more natural the oil is in It will be more vulnerable to corruption and needs more favorable conditions for storage. Note: The maximum storage time for animal oil after opening is 3 months.