Storage

How to Store Emu Oil

Proper storage helps protect emu oil from oxidation and rancidity. Heat, light, oxygen and the quality of the original oil can all affect how long it remains fresh.

Follow the Product Label

There is no universal shelf life for every emu oil product. Refined pure oil, crude oil and cosmetics containing emu oil can all have different storage requirements.

The manufacturer’s expiration date and storage instructions should therefore take priority over a general rule such as keeping every bottle for two years.

Room-Temperature Storage

Fully refined emu oil can generally be stored at a cool room temperature when the manufacturer permits it. Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from direct sunlight, heaters, hot appliances and other sources of prolonged heat.

A dark cabinet or another cool location is preferable to a sunny windowsill or a warm bathroom shelf.

Refrigerating Emu Oil

Refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of emu oil and may be particularly useful after opening or when the oil will be stored for a long period.

The American Emu Association states that Grade A emu oil is generally considered to have a shelf life of approximately 1 to 1½ years depending on storage conditions and that refrigeration can extend its shelf life.

See the American Emu Association storage information.

What If Emu Oil Becomes Solid or Cloudy?

Cooling emu oil can make it thicken, become cloudy or partially solidify. This does not mean that the oil has been ruined. Fats naturally change consistency as temperature changes.

If refrigerated oil becomes too thick to use, allowing the closed container to warm gradually toward room temperature will normally make it more fluid again.

Keep the Container Closed

Closing the cap tightly reduces repeated exposure to oxygen and also helps prevent contamination. Avoid introducing water, dirty applicators or other materials into a bottle of pure oil.

How to Tell If Emu Oil Has Gone Bad

Rancid oil may develop a noticeably unpleasant or stale odor and other changes in appearance or texture. A significant change from the product’s original smell or condition can indicate deterioration.

If the oil has been stored for an unusually long time, has been repeatedly exposed to heat or sunlight, or smells rancid, replacing it is preferable to continuing to use it.

Crude and Refined Emu Oil Are Different

Crude emu oil is much less stable than properly refined oil and can become rancid quickly without refrigeration. Fully refined Grade A oil is designed to have substantially better stability.

For more about the different grades and processing of emu oil, see the Emu Oil overview.