2. • Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is
relatively stable under normal storage
conditions. However, like other vitamins, its
stability can be affected by various factors
such as temperature, light, moisture, and
oxygen exposure.
• different storage conditions can affect the
stability of vitamin D:
3. Temperature:
– Stability: Vitamin D is relatively stable under normal
storage conditions, but high temperatures can
accelerate its degradation.
– Recommended storage temperature: It is advisable
to store vitamin D supplements in a cool
environment, ideally below 25°C (77°F). Avoid
exposing them to excessive heat sources, such as
direct sunlight or near stovetops.
– Impact of high temperatures: Prolonged exposure to
high temperatures can lead to a decrease in the
potency of vitamin D. It is best to store it in a cool,
dry place to maintain its stability.
4. • Light:
– Stability: Vitamin D is sensitive to light,
particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, which can
degrade it over time.
– Recommended storage: Protect vitamin D
supplements from light exposure by storing them
in opaque containers that block UV light or in a
dark area, such as a cabinet or drawer.
– Impact of light exposure: Direct sunlight or
prolonged exposure to light can cause a loss of
potency in vitamin D over time. Therefore, it is
essential to shield it from light to preserve its
stability.
5. • Moisture:
– Stability: Moisture can cause the deterioration of
vitamin D over time, reducing its potency.
– Recommended storage: Store vitamin D
supplements in a dry environment and ensure
the container is tightly closed to prevent
moisture absorption.
– Impact of moisture: If the supplements are not
properly sealed or stored in a humid
environment, moisture can lead to degradation,
clumping, or changes in texture. It is crucial to
keep the container tightly closed and protect the
supplements from moisture.
6. • Oxygen exposure:
– Stability: Vitamin D can undergo oxidation when
exposed to oxygen, which can result in a
decrease in potency.
– Recommended storage: Store vitamin D
supplements in airtight containers to minimize
exposure to oxygen.
– Impact of oxygen exposure: When vitamin D is
exposed to air, it can gradually lose its potency
due to oxidation. Storing it in airtight containers
helps maintain its stability and effectiveness.
7. • Cooking:
• Heat: Vitamin D is relatively stable to moderate
heat during cooking.
• Prolonged Cooking: Extended cooking times at
high temperatures may result in some vitamin D
degradation.
• Cooking Methods: Boiling and steaming are
better for preserving vitamin D compared to
high-heat methods like frying and grilling.
• Food Matrix: Vitamin D stability can be
influenced by the food's fat content and its
formulation (fortified foods).
8. • During cooking, moderate heat and shorter
cooking times help minimize vitamin D loss.
Choosing cooking methods that involve
lower heat and incorporating fat-containing
ingredients can help retain more vitamin D.
9. • Vitamin D Stability during Pasteurization and
Sterilization:
• Pasteurization:
• Stability: Vitamin D is relatively stable during
pasteurization, a heat treatment commonly
used for liquids like milk and fruit juices.
• Impact: The moderate heat applied during
pasteurization does not significantly degrade
vitamin D. Pasteurized products, such as
fortified milk, generally retain the vitamin's
potency.
10. • Sterilization:
• Stability: Vitamin D can be more sensitive to
the higher heat and longer exposure times
involved in sterilization processes.
• Impact: Depending on the sterilization
method and duration, vitamin D stability can
be compromised. Prolonged exposure to
high temperatures may result in a partial loss
of potency.
11. • Storage and handling: Proper storage and
handling practices after pasteurization or
sterilization, such as avoiding excessive heat
and light exposure, help maintain the
stability of vitamin D in the final product.
12. • During food processing, several factors can
contribute to the loss of vitamin D content.
• Fortification: Vitamin D losses can occur during
the fortification process, as the stability of the
added vitamin may be affected by the
processing conditions and other ingredients
present.
• Grinding and milling: Mechanical processes
such as grinding and milling can lead to the loss
of vitamin D, especially if the vitamin is
concentrated in the outer layers of the food
13. • Dehydration: Some loss of vitamin D may
occur during the dehydration process, as
exposure to heat and air .