Can we store shilajit in a plastic container? The Risks and Best Alternatives

January 3, 2026 •

4 min read

According to numerous supplement experts, storing shilajit in plastic is discouraged because the material can degrade the compound's purity over time. So, can we store shilajit in a plastic container? While it may seem like a convenient option, the practice is widely advised against for several critical reasons related to maintaining its integrity and effectiveness.

Quick Summary

Storing shilajit in plastic containers is risky due to potential chemical leaching and potency loss. Glass is the recommended, safer alternative to preserve the supplement's quality.

Key Points

Avoid Plastic: Storing shilajit in plastic is not recommended for long-term use due to potential chemical leaching and degradation of potency.
Choose Glass: Airtight, dark glass containers are the ideal choice for storing shilajit as they are inert and protect against light and air.
Control Temperature: Store shilajit in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Stable temperatures are key to maintaining its consistency and potency.
Ensure Airtight Seal: Whether using glass or temporary plastic, the container must be airtight to prevent oxidation and moisture contamination, which can cause spoilage.
Minimize Exposure: Reduce the frequency and duration of opening the main container. Consider transferring a smaller amount for daily use to limit air exposure to the bulk of your shilajit.

Why Storing Shilajit in Plastic is Not Recommended

Storing shilajit, especially the potent resin form, in a plastic container is a common question for new users. However, it is a practice that most experts and manufacturers strongly advise against. The primary concerns revolve around the chemical composition of plastics and their potential negative interaction with shilajit's active ingredients, primarily fulvic acid. This interaction can lead to both reduced efficacy of the supplement and potential health risks from chemical contamination.

The Risks of Chemical Leaching

One of the most significant issues with plastic containers is the potential for chemical leaching. Plastics contain various chemical additives, such as plasticizers, stabilizers, and monomers, that can migrate from the container into its contents, especially when exposed to stress factors like heat or UV light. Shilajit is a potent, mineral-rich compound that can be particularly reactive. The fulvic acid within shilajit is a powerful chelating agent, meaning it can bind with other molecules, including potentially harmful chemicals that have leached from the plastic. This process could not only contaminate the shilajit but also alter its molecular structure, potentially reducing its therapeutic benefits.

Degradation of Potency and Purity

Plastic containers are more permeable to air and moisture than glass. This permeability is detrimental to shilajit for several reasons:

Oxidation: Exposure to air can cause oxidation, which degrades the active compounds in the resin, diminishing its potency over time.
Moisture Absorption: High humidity can cause the resin to soften or spoil, and moisture from condensation can promote mold growth. Plastic is less effective at creating a perfect moisture barrier.
Odor Absorption: Plastic is known to absorb and retain odors from its surroundings. Shilajit has a distinct, earthy smell, and a plastic container can impart its own chemical-like odor, further tainting the product.

The Ideal Alternative: Storing Shilajit in Glass

The overwhelming consensus among experts is that airtight glass jars are the best choice for storing shilajit. Glass is a non-porous and inert material, meaning it will not react with the shilajit or leach any chemicals into it. This ensures the supplement's purity, potency, and effectiveness are preserved for the longest possible duration. Amber or dark-colored glass is particularly recommended, as it blocks out light, which can also degrade the sensitive compounds in shilajit.

Proper Storage Conditions for Maximum Longevity

Regardless of the container, proper environmental conditions are crucial for preserving shilajit. Follow these guidelines to maximize its shelf life:

Cool and Dark Place: Store shilajit in a cupboard or drawer away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as stoves or radiators.
Consistent Temperature: Avoid locations with significant temperature fluctuations. For resin, keeping it at a stable room temperature between 60-77°F (15-25°C) is ideal.
Refrigeration for Humidity: In hot, humid climates, refrigeration can be beneficial. However, always ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture condensation. Let refrigerated resin return to room temperature before opening.
Use Airtight Containers: Always use a container with a tight-sealing lid to prevent exposure to air and moisture.

Using Glass for Different Shilajit Forms

Resin: Keep the resin in its original airtight, dark glass jar. If transferring, use a high-quality, airtight glass container. For long-term storage, the refrigerator is a safe bet in humid areas.
Powder: Powdered shilajit is even more susceptible to moisture. Store it in an airtight glass container, potentially with a desiccant packet to absorb excess moisture.
Liquid Drops: Store liquid shilajit in its original dark glass dropper bottle, tightly sealed and refrigerated after opening if directed.

Comparison: Plastic vs. Glass Containers


Feature	Plastic Container	Glass Container	Expert Recommendation
Chemical Leaching	High risk, especially with heat exposure and over time.	Minimal to no risk. Glass is inert and non-porous.	Glass is preferred for chemical safety.
Potency & Purity	Can degrade shilajit due to air permeability and chemical interaction.	Preserves shilajit's potency and purity effectively.	Glass is superior for maintaining quality.
Odor Absorption	Prone to absorbing and transferring odors, tainting the product.	Inert and does not absorb or transfer odors.	Glass provides a neutral storage environment.
Moisture Barrier	Less effective, risking oxidation and spoilage.	Excellent airtight seal prevents moisture intrusion.	Glass is better for moisture protection.
Light Protection	Typically transparent, allowing UV light exposure.	Dark-colored (amber) glass offers superior UV protection.	Dark glass is the best for light sensitivity.
Durability	Lighter and less fragile, but can warp over time.	Heavier and more fragile, but retains shape indefinitely.	Depends on handling and use, but glass is more durable long-term for storage properties.

Conclusion: Prioritize Glass for Optimal Preservation

The simple answer to "can we store shilajit in a plastic container?" is technically yes, but it is not advisable for long-term storage or for preserving the integrity of the supplement. While a high-quality, BPA-free plastic container may be an option for temporary use, glass remains the gold standard. The risks of chemical leaching, reduced potency, and odor absorption from plastic far outweigh the minor inconvenience of using glass. By choosing an airtight, dark glass container and following best storage practices, you ensure that your investment in this powerful natural supplement is protected, allowing you to enjoy its full benefits for years to come. For more information on the health effects of chemicals in plastic packaging, see the study by the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

A glass container is better because it is non-porous and inert, meaning it won't leach chemicals into the shilajit. Dark glass also blocks light, which can degrade the active compounds.

Storing shilajit in plastic can lead to chemical leaching from the plastic into the shilajit, potential contamination, absorption of odors, and a loss of potency over time, especially if exposed to heat.

While a BPA-free plastic is an improvement, it is still not the optimal choice. Other chemicals can still leach, and plastic's permeability to air and moisture makes it a less effective long-term storage solution than glass.

Refrigeration is not necessary in a cool, dry climate. In hot or humid environments, it can help maintain consistency and prevent spoilage. If you do refrigerate, ensure the container is airtight to prevent moisture buildup.

Signs of spoilage include an unusual smell (rancid or foul), a significant change in color or texture (excessive hardness or stickiness), or the presence of mold. If you notice any of these, it's best to discard it.

When stored correctly in an airtight, cool, and dark glass container, shilajit resin can maintain its potency for 2 to 3 years. Processed forms like powder or capsules have a shorter shelf life.

It is best to use a dark or amber glass container. A clear glass container should be stored in a dark place, like a cupboard, to protect the shilajit from light degradation.