Packaging, storage, and shelf-life 

1. Packaging

A. Resin (chips, blocks)

• Material:
  • Paper bags, kraft bags, or cardboard boxes for short-term storage.
  • Airtight containers (glass jars or metal tins) for long-term storage.
• Sealing:
  • Ensure dry and airtight packaging to prevent moisture absorption and fungal growth.
• Labeling:
  • Include species, grade, batch number, harvest/inoculation date, origin, and weight.
• Transport:
  • Protect from crushing or excessive vibration; use padded cartons for bulk shipments.

B. Essential Oil (agarwood oil / oud)

• Material:
  • Dark-colored glass bottles (amber/brown) to prevent UV degradation.
  • High-quality PTFE-lined screw caps to prevent leakage and oxidation.
• Volume:
  • Small batches (5–100 mL) for retail or perfumery samples.
  • Bulk packaging (1–25 L) in airtight stainless steel or glass-lined containers.
• Labeling:
  • Include ISO grade, species, extraction method, batch number, and date.

2. Storage Conditions

Parameter	Resin	Essential Oil
Temperature	15–25°C	15–25°C (cool, not freezing)
Humidity	<60% RH	Low; avoid condensation
Light	Dark storage; avoid direct sunlight	Dark, opaque bottles or dark storage area
Ventilation	Moderate airflow to prevent mold	Stable, sealed to prevent oxidation
Position	Flat, avoid heavy stacking	Upright bottles or drums, secure lids

Notes:

• Avoid extreme heat (>35°C) or direct sunlight → degrades fragrance compounds.
• Prevent moisture contact → resin may mold; oil may hydrolyze or lose aroma.
• Minimal air headspace in oil bottles → slows oxidation.

3. Shelf-Life Expectations

Product	Typical Shelf-Life	Quality Considerations
Agarwood chips / resin	3–5 years (stored properly)	Aroma may gradually develop or intensify; moisture and mold are main risks
Essential oil (steam-distilled)	2–3 years	Aroma intensity may fade; oxidation can occur if not sealed properly
Essential oil (supercritical CO₂)	3–5 years	High-purity, better stability; minimal aroma loss if sealed and stored correctly

Tips to Extend Shelf-Life:

• Use nitrogen flushing in oil bottles for commercial storage.
• Regularly inspect resin for mold or insect infestation.
• Avoid frequent bottle opening; reseal immediately after use.
• Maintain consistent cool temperature and low humidity.

4. Best Practices for Commercial Handling

1. Batch segregation: Keep chips and oil by grade and harvest date to maintain traceability.
2. Record keeping: Track storage date, location, and quality checks.
3. Transport: Use shock-proof, moisture-resistant packaging for export.
4. SOP adherence: Implement standard operating procedures for storage, handling, and rotation to maintain quality over time.
5. Periodic quality checks: Smell and visually inspect stored resin and oil to detect degradation or contamination.

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