Read our Top Tips about how to store your animal health products correctly to maintain their efficacy:
- Always read and follow the label instructions for storage to make sure you know what the requirements are for each product.
- Install a thermometer in the fridge to ensure medications are being stored at the correct temperature (between 4 and 5°C).
- Remember, it’s not just high temperatures you need to watch out for – temperatures below 2°C can be detrimental to some products, such as vaccines.
- Replace your old refrigerator if it is struggling to maintain the appropriate temperature in hotter conditions.
- Install a thermometer in storage sheds. Some products, like parasiticides, may not require refrigeration but may need to be stored below 30°C – which is easily exceeded in storage sheds during hot weather conditions.
- Ensure storage sheds are not accessible to the public and have good ventilation.
- Have relevant Safety Data Sheets available.
- Have cooler packs and an esky on hand when using products that require temperature control.
- Keep track of expiry dates and restock in advance to make sure you have access to efficacious products when you need them.
• Does the product require refrigeration during storage?
• Does the product need to be protected from light during storage?
For more information:
- You can access product labels via the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority PubCRIS database.
- Refer to the Australian Standard for the Storage and Handling of Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (AS 2507-1998).
