Hey there! As a supplier of Rebaudioside C 85%, I often get asked about the storage requirements for this product. So, I thought I'd write a blog post to share some insights on this topic.
Understanding Rebaudioside C 85%
First off, let's quickly go over what Rebaudioside C 85% is. Rebaudioside C is a natural sweetener extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It's known for its sweet taste, which is about 40 - 60 times sweeter than sucrose. The 85% in Rebaudioside C 85% refers to its purity level. This high - purity product is popular in the food and beverage industry as a low - calorie sweetening alternative.
We also offer other purity levels of Rebaudioside C, like Rebaudioside C 50%, Rebaudioside C 80%, and Rebaudioside C 60%, each with its own unique applications and market demands.
Storage Temperature
One of the most crucial factors in storing Rebaudioside C 85% is temperature. This product should be stored in a cool environment. Ideally, the temperature should be kept between 2 - 8°C (35.6 - 46.4°F). Why this range? Well, at temperatures higher than 8°C, there's a risk of the product starting to degrade. The chemical structure of Rebaudioside C can be affected by heat, which may lead to a change in its sweetness profile and overall quality.
On the other hand, if the temperature drops below 2°C, there's a chance of the product freezing. Freezing can cause physical changes in the product, like crystallization, which can also impact its performance when used as a sweetener. So, maintaining that 2 - 8°C range is key to keeping the product in top - notch condition.
Humidity Control
Humidity is another big deal when it comes to storing Rebaudioside C 85%. This product is hygroscopic, which means it can absorb moisture from the air. High humidity levels can cause the product to clump together. Once it clumps, it becomes difficult to handle and measure accurately, which is a major problem in the food and beverage manufacturing process.
To prevent this, the storage area should have a relative humidity of less than 60%. You can use dehumidifiers in the storage facility to control the humidity. Also, make sure the product is stored in air - tight containers. This way, even if the external humidity is a bit high, the product inside the container will be protected.
Light Exposure
Light can also have a negative impact on Rebaudioside C 85%. Ultraviolet (UV) light, in particular, can cause chemical reactions in the product. These reactions can break down the Rebaudioside C molecules, leading to a loss of its sweetening properties.
So, it's best to store the product in a dark place. If you're using transparent containers, consider covering them with opaque materials like black plastic sheets. This will shield the product from direct light and help maintain its quality over time.
Container Selection
The type of container you use for storing Rebaudioside C 85% matters a lot. As mentioned earlier, air - tight containers are a must. They prevent moisture, oxygen, and other contaminants from getting in.
Stainless steel containers are a great option. They're durable, non - reactive, and can be easily cleaned. Glass containers are also good, especially if they're dark - colored to block out light. Just make sure they have a tight - fitting lid.
Avoid using containers made of materials that can react with the product. For example, some plastics may leach chemicals into the Rebaudioside C, which can affect its safety and quality.
Shelf Life
When stored under the right conditions (2 - 8°C, low humidity, and away from light), Rebaudioside C 85% has a relatively long shelf life. Usually, it can last for about 2 - 3 years. However, it's important to note that the shelf life can be shortened if the storage conditions are not optimal.
It's a good practice to conduct regular quality checks on the stored product. You can do simple tests like checking for changes in color, odor, and solubility. If you notice any significant changes, it might be a sign that the product is starting to degrade.
Handling During Storage
During storage, you also need to handle the product carefully. When moving the containers, make sure not to shake them too vigorously. Excessive shaking can cause the product to break down or clump.
Also, keep the storage area clean. Regularly clean the shelves and floors to prevent the accumulation of dust and other contaminants. This will help maintain a hygienic environment for the product.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper storage of Rebaudioside C 85% is essential to maintain its quality and performance. By controlling the temperature, humidity, light exposure, and using the right containers, you can ensure that the product stays in good condition for a long time.
If you're in the market for high - quality Rebaudioside C 85% or any of our other Rebaudioside C products, feel free to reach out. We're here to provide you with the best products and answer any questions you might have. Let's start a conversation about your sweetening needs and how we can help you get the most out of our Rebaudioside C products.
References
- "Stevia: The Genus Stevia" by Simon J. E., et al.
- Industry reports on natural sweeteners and their storage requirements.
