Peptide Storage and Safety
Safe storage practices to prevent peptide degradation and contamination.
Last updated: 18 April 2026
Temperature management
Freezer storage (-20°C to -80°C) is standard for long-term preservation. Room-temperature storage is not suitable for most peptides. Fluctuating temperatures cause expansion and contraction, which can break seals and allow contamination.
If you cannot reliably maintain freezer conditions, consider short-term use only.
Light protection
Light exposure (especially UV) accelerates peptide degradation. Store in amber or opaque vials and keep away from direct sunlight. Fluorescent lights in labs also cause degradation over time.
Even a few hours of strong light exposure can noticeably reduce peptide stability.
Moisture and desiccation
Lyophilised peptides are sensitive to moisture. Store in dry conditions, ideally in a desiccator or with desiccant packets. Moisture promotes degradation and microbial growth.
After opening, minimise air exposure. Close containers immediately after use.
Preventing contamination during handling
Use sterile technique if you reconstitute peptides. Never use the same pipette tip for multiple samples. Wear gloves to prevent skin-cell contamination. Keep all materials and workspace clean.
Once reconstituted, solutions degrade faster and are more contamination-prone than solids.
Proper labelling
Label every container with: peptide name, batch number, date received, storage conditions, and expiration date. This prevents mix-ups and ensures safe handling.