# Mission Hemoglobin Strips Expiry & Storage Guide: Temperature, Shelf Life & Handling

**By Dr Pramod kumar** · 2026-09-29

**Mission Hb Hemoglobin Test Strips** are precision diagnostic consumables designed specifically for use with the compatible Mission Hb Hemoglobin Monitor.

Correct strip storage is an important part of reliable hemoglobin testing. Exposure to excessive heat, humidity, moisture, direct sunlight, damaged packaging or use beyond the permitted shelf life can affect test-strip performance.

According to the manufacturer, Mission Hb test strips should generally be stored at **2°C to 30°C** with relative humidity of **85% or less**. An unopened canister has a shelf life of up to approximately **2 years**, while an opened canister should be used within approximately **3 months**, subject to the printed expiry date.

This guide explains how to store Mission Hb strips correctly, how to manage opened canisters, what to do in hot or humid environments, and when a strip pack should no longer be used.

* * *

## Mission Hb Test Strip Storage at a Glance

Storage Factor

Mission Hb Recommendation

**Storage Temperature**

**2°C–30°C**

**Relative Humidity**

**≤85% RH**

**Unopened Shelf Life**

Up to approximately **2 years**, subject to printed expiry

**After Opening**

Use within approximately **3 months** or before printed expiry, whichever comes first

**Container**

Keep in the original protective canister with the cap tightly closed

**Heat / Sunlight**

Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight

**Moisture**

Keep dry and protect from excessive humidity

**Used Strips**

Single use only — never reuse

* * *

## What Is the Shelf Life of Mission Hb Test Strips?

Mission Hb Hemoglobin Test Strips have a manufacturer-specified shelf life of up to approximately:

**2 years in an unopened canister**

This shelf life applies only when:

-   The canister remains unopened.
-   The strips are stored under the specified conditions.
-   The printed expiry date has not passed.
-   The packaging has not been damaged.

The printed expiry date on the actual strip canister always takes priority.

* * *

## How Long Can Mission Hb Strips Be Used After Opening?

Once a Mission Hb strip canister is opened, the manufacturer specifies an opened-canister period of approximately:

**3 months after first opening**

When opening a new canister, it is good practice to write the:

**Opened date**

and:

**Opened expiry date — 3 months later**

on the canister label.

Discard the remaining strips after the three-month opened period, even if some strips remain unused.

If the manufacturer's printed expiry date occurs sooner than three months after opening, the printed expiry date takes priority.

* * *

## Example: How to Calculate the Opened-Canister Expiry

Suppose a Mission Hb strip canister is first opened on:

**10 September 2026**

The opened-canister period would normally extend approximately three months, to:

**10 December 2026**

However, if the manufacturer's printed expiry date were 30 November 2026, the strips should not be used beyond 30 November.

The practical rule is:

**Use whichever expiry comes first — printed expiry or three months after opening.**

* * *

## Mission Hb 50-Strip Pack Configuration

Mission Hb replacement strips may be supplied in a 50-strip configuration as:

**2 canisters × 25 strips each**

This packaging can be useful because the second canister can remain unopened while the first is being used.

That means the three-month opened-canister period begins separately when each individual canister is first opened.

For example:

-   Canister 1 opened today → its three-month opened period begins today.
-   Canister 2 remains sealed → it retains its unopened status until you open it, subject to its printed expiry.

This is one reason to avoid opening both canisters unnecessarily.

[**View Mission Hb Hemoglobin Test Strips – 50 Pack**](https://microsidd.com/products/mission-hb-strips-pack-of-50-strips)

* * *

## What Temperature Should Mission Hb Strips Be Stored At?

The recommended storage temperature is:

**2°C to 30°C**

This is the storage range for the strips, not necessarily the same as the meter's operating temperature.

Mission Hb test strips should not be routinely kept in areas where temperatures may exceed 30°C.

* * *

## Mission Hb Strip Storage Humidity

The manufacturer specifies storage at approximately:

**≤85% relative humidity**

This is important because test strips contain reagent chemistry that should be protected from excessive environmental moisture.

Keep the strip canister away from:

-   Bathrooms
-   Wash areas
-   Laboratory sinks
-   Steam
-   Open windows during heavy rain
-   Damp cupboards
-   Areas where condensation forms

* * *

## Keep Mission Hb Strips in the Original Canister

Mission Hb strips should remain in their **original protective canister**.

Do not transfer them into:

-   Another strip bottle
-   A plastic pouch
-   An unlabelled container
-   A container from another Mission Hb strip lot
-   A container from another Hb meter brand

The original canister preserves important information including:

-   Product identification
-   Lot information
-   Code information
-   Printed expiry
-   Storage instructions

* * *

## Close the Strip Canister Immediately

After removing a Mission Hb test strip:

1.  Remove only the strip required for the immediate test.
2.  Replace the cap immediately.
3.  Make sure the canister is tightly closed.
4.  Return it to the appropriate storage location.

Do not leave the canister open while preparing the patient, meter or lancet.

Prepare the testing area first, then remove the strip immediately before use.

* * *

## Why Keeping the Canister Closed Matters

The protective canister helps shield the strips from environmental exposure.

Leaving it open unnecessarily can expose unused strips to:

-   Humidity
-   Airborne moisture
-   Dust
-   Contamination
-   Temperature fluctuations

Keeping the lid tightly closed is therefore part of correct test-strip handling.

* * *

## Protect Mission Hb Strips from Heat

Do not store Mission Hb strips in areas likely to become hotter than the permitted storage range.

Avoid locations such as:

-   Parked vehicles
-   Car dashboards
-   Near windows exposed to direct sunlight
-   Beside heaters
-   Near hot laboratory equipment
-   On top of refrigerators or electrical equipment producing heat
-   Unventilated cabinets exposed to roof heat

* * *

## Mission Hb Strip Storage During Indian Summer Conditions

In many parts of India, indoor temperatures can exceed 30°C during summer, particularly in rooms without temperature control.

Do not assume that a closed cupboard automatically remains below 30°C.

For better storage, choose a location that is:

-   Indoors
-   Dry
-   Away from direct sunlight
-   Away from exterior walls that become very hot
-   Away from roof heat
-   Away from machinery or electrical equipment producing heat

Clinics and laboratories keeping significant strip stock should monitor the actual storage environment rather than relying only on perceived room temperature.

* * *

## Can Mission Hb Test Strips Be Refrigerated?

The manufacturer specifies a strip storage range beginning at approximately **2°C**, but routine refrigeration is generally unnecessary when the strips can be stored normally within the specified range.

More importantly, avoid unnecessary movement between very cold and warm humid environments because this may promote condensation.

Always follow the current package insert supplied with your exact strip pack.

* * *

## Can Mission Hb Test Strips Be Frozen?

No. Do not freeze Mission Hb test strips.

Freezing and freeze-thaw exposure can affect diagnostic consumables and their packaging.

Keep the strips within the manufacturer-specified storage conditions.

* * *

## What Is Condensation and Why Can It Matter?

Condensation can form when a cold container is moved quickly into warm, humid air.

Moisture may then form on or around the packaging.

Because diagnostic strips should be protected from moisture, avoid repeatedly moving Mission Hb strip canisters between cold and warm environments.

If strips have been stored near the lower end of the permitted range, allow the closed container to reach appropriate room conditions according to the manufacturer's instructions before opening it.

* * *

## Do Not Handle Mission Hb Strips with Wet Hands

Hands should be clean and dry before removing a test strip.

Avoid unnecessarily touching:

-   The reaction area
-   The sample-application area
-   The optical reading area
-   Other critical test surfaces

Moisture, oils or contamination from the hands may interfere with the strip.

* * *

## Inspect the Strip Before Every Test

Do not use a Mission Hb strip if it appears:

-   Torn
-   Bent
-   Wet
-   Discoloured
-   Contaminated
-   Physically damaged
-   Previously used

Use a fresh strip from a correctly stored canister.

* * *

## Can Mission Hb Strips Be Reused?

**No.**

Mission Hb Hemoglobin Test Strips are intended for **single use only**.

After blood has been applied and the measurement performed:

-   Do not wash the strip.
-   Do not wipe it and reuse it.
-   Do not apply another blood sample.
-   Do not use the same strip for another person.
-   Do not return the used strip to the canister.

* * *

## Mission Hb Code Chip and Strip Lot

Mission Hb strip packs are associated with a code-chip system.

Before testing, confirm that the meter setup corresponds to the current strip pack according to the manufacturer instructions.

Keep:

-   The code chip
-   The strip canister
-   The package insert

together with the corresponding strip lot.

Do not casually mix code chips between strip lots.

For a detailed explanation, read:

[**Mission Hb Test Strip Compatibility Guide**](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-test-strip-compatibility-guide)

* * *

## Do Not Mix Mission Hb Strip Lots

If you have more than one Mission Hb strip pack, keep each lot clearly identified.

Do not transfer strips from one lot into another lot's canister.

Keeping each batch in its original container helps preserve:

-   Correct code information
-   Lot traceability
-   Expiry information
-   Opened-canister date
-   Storage accountability

* * *

## What If Mission Hb Strips Were Exposed to Excessive Heat?

If you know that the strips were stored above the manufacturer's permitted conditions for a significant period, their suitability may be uncertain.

Examples include a pack left:

-   Inside a hot vehicle
-   In direct sunlight
-   Beside a heater
-   In an excessively hot storeroom

Returning heat-exposed strips to the correct temperature does not necessarily reverse deterioration that may already have occurred.

When reliable testing is important, use a correctly stored strip pack.

* * *

## What If Mission Hb Strips Were Exposed to Moisture?

Do not use strips that are visibly wet or contaminated.

Do not attempt to:

-   Dry a wet strip and use it
-   Heat the strip
-   Wipe the reaction area
-   Return a wet strip to the canister

Discard the affected strip.

If moisture has entered the canister and affected multiple strips, the entire pack may be unsuitable for reliable use.

* * *

## What If the Mission Hb Canister Was Left Open?

If the canister was accidentally left open, the risk depends on:

-   How long it remained open
-   The surrounding humidity
-   Whether water or contaminants entered
-   The environmental temperature

A canister left open for a prolonged period in a humid or contaminated environment should not automatically be considered equivalent to properly stored stock.

Professional users should follow their quality-control procedure when strip integrity is uncertain.

* * *

## Can Mission Hb Strips Be Stored in a Car?

A vehicle should not be used as a routine storage location for Mission Hb strips.

Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly and exceed the manufacturer's 30°C upper storage limit.

If strips are transported for field or screening work:

-   Keep them protected from sunlight.
-   Keep them in the original closed canister.
-   Avoid prolonged vehicle storage.
-   Move them to suitable storage as soon as practical.

* * *

## Transporting Mission Hb Test Strips

During transport, protect the strips from:

-   Excessive heat
-   Freezing
-   Water
-   High humidity
-   Direct sunlight
-   Crushing or package damage

Maintain the manufacturer's specified storage conditions wherever practical.

* * *

## Use FEFO for Mission Hb Strip Stock

Clinics, laboratories and screening programmes that hold several strip packs can use:

**FEFO — First Expiry, First Out**

This means using the correctly stored pack with the earliest valid expiry first.

For example:

-   Pack A expires January 2027
-   Pack B expires May 2027
-   Pack C expires December 2027

Pack A should normally be used first.

This reduces unnecessary wastage.

* * *

## Record the Opened Date in Professional Settings

For laboratories and clinics, a simple strip-control record can include:

-   Strip lot number
-   Date received
-   Printed expiry date
-   Date canister opened
-   Calculated three-month opened expiry
-   Storage location
-   Quality-control results where applicable

This is particularly helpful when several operators use the same testing system.

* * *

## Mission Hb Storage Checklist for Clinics & Laboratories

-   ✓ Store strips at 2°C–30°C
-   ✓ Keep relative humidity at or below 85%
-   ✓ Keep strips in their original canister
-   ✓ Close the lid immediately after removing a strip
-   ✓ Write the opened date on each canister
-   ✓ Use within 3 months after opening
-   ✓ Observe the printed expiry date
-   ✓ Keep code chip and strip lot together
-   ✓ Protect strips from heat and sunlight
-   ✓ Protect strips from moisture
-   ✓ Do not mix strip lots
-   ✓ Do not use damaged strips
-   ✓ Use a fresh strip for every test

* * *

## Mission Hb Strip Storage vs Meter Storage

Do not confuse the strip-storage range with the meter-storage range.

Component

Storage Conditions

**Mission Hb Test Strips**

2°C–30°C; ≤85% RH

**Mission Hb Meter**

0°C–50°C; ≤90% RH

**Meter During Testing**

10°C–40°C; ≤90% RH

A meter being able to tolerate a particular storage temperature does not mean the test strips can be stored under the same conditions.

* * *

## Before Using Mission Hb Strips After Storage

Before performing a test:

1.  Check the printed expiry date.
2.  Check the opened-canister date.
3.  Confirm the canister has been stored correctly.
4.  Confirm the correct Mission Hb strip is being used.
5.  Check the code-chip / strip-lot setup.
6.  Inspect the strip for physical damage.
7.  Use a fresh strip for the test.

Then follow the standard testing procedure:

[**How to Use Mission Hemoglobin Monitor & Hb Test Strips**](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/how-to-use-mission-hemoglobin-monitor)

* * *

## What If Mission Hb Results Become Inconsistent?

If previously stable results become unusually inconsistent, review strip storage as part of the troubleshooting process.

Check:

-   Strip expiry
-   Opened-canister period
-   Storage temperature
-   Humidity exposure
-   Canister closure
-   Physical strip condition
-   Code-chip setup
-   Blood sample volume
-   Sampling technique

For more detailed troubleshooting:

[**Mission Hb Meter Troubleshooting Guide**](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-meter-troubleshooting-error-guide)

* * *

## Mission Hb Storage: Quick Do & Don't Guide

DO

DON'T

Store at 2°C–30°C

Leave strips in excessive heat

Keep humidity ≤85%

Store in damp environments

Keep strips in original canister

Transfer strips to another bottle

Close the canister promptly

Leave the lid open unnecessarily

Record the opened date

Forget the 3-month opened period

Check printed expiry

Use expired strips

Use one fresh strip per test

Reuse test strips

* * *

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What temperature should Mission Hb test strips be stored at?

Mission Hb strips should be stored at approximately **2°C–30°C**.

### What humidity is recommended for Mission Hb strips?

The manufacturer specifies storage at **85% relative humidity or less**.

### What is the unopened shelf life of Mission Hb test strips?

The manufacturer specifies up to approximately **2 years for an unopened canister**, subject to the printed expiry date and correct storage.

### How long can Mission Hb strips be used after opening?

An opened canister should generally be used within approximately **3 months**, provided the printed expiry date does not occur earlier.

### Should I write the opened date on the strip canister?

Yes. Recording the opened date and three-month opened-expiry date makes strip management easier, particularly in clinics and laboratories.

### Does the Mission Hb 50-strip pack contain one canister?

Manufacturer configurations include 50 strips supplied as **2 canisters of 25 strips**. Check the exact current Microsidd listing and product packaging supplied to you.

### Can Mission Hb strips be transferred to another bottle?

No. Keep the strips in their original protective canister with the cap tightly closed.

### Can Mission Hb strips be left in a car?

A vehicle is not recommended for routine storage because temperatures can rise above the manufacturer's 30°C upper storage limit.

### Can Mission Hb strips be frozen?

No. Do not freeze the strips.

### Can Mission Hb strips be refrigerated?

Routine refrigeration is unnecessary when suitable 2°C–30°C storage is available. Avoid condensation and always follow the instructions supplied with the specific strip pack.

### Can I use Mission Hb strips after the printed expiry date?

No. Do not use strips after the manufacturer's printed expiry date.

### Can Mission Hb strips be used more than three months after opening if they look normal?

No. Physical appearance alone does not establish that strip performance remains acceptable beyond the manufacturer's opened-canister period.

### Can I reuse a Mission Hb test strip?

No. Mission Hb Hemoglobin Test Strips are intended for single use only.

### What should I do if the canister was left open?

If the strips were exposed to prolonged humidity, moisture or contamination, their reliability may be uncertain. Use correctly stored stock and follow professional quality-control procedures where applicable.

### What should I do if my Mission Hb results become inconsistent?

Review strip expiry, opened date, storage conditions, code-chip setup, sample volume and sampling technique. Repeat with a fresh correctly stored strip where appropriate.

* * *

## Related Mission Hb Guides

**Mission Hemoglobin Monitor & Test Strips Complete Guide**  
[Read the complete Mission Hb system guide](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hemoglobin-monitor-test-strips-complete-guide)

**Mission Hb Test Strip Compatibility Guide**  
[Check which strips are compatible with the Mission Hb monitor](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-test-strip-compatibility-guide)

**How to Use Mission Hemoglobin Monitor & Hb Test Strips**  
[Follow the Mission Hb testing procedure step by step](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/how-to-use-mission-hemoglobin-monitor)

**Mission Hb Meter Troubleshooting Guide**  
[Troubleshoot Mission Hb strip, sample and meter problems](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-meter-troubleshooting-error-guide)

**Mission Hb Accuracy vs Laboratory CBC**  
[Learn why Mission Hb and laboratory results can differ](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-accuracy-vs-lab-cbc)

**Mission Hb Capillary vs Venous Blood Guide**  
[Compare capillary and venous blood for Mission Hb testing](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-capillary-vs-venous-blood)

**Mission Hb Quality Control & Calibration Guide**  
[Learn about Mission Hb code chips, QC and calibration](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-quality-control-calibration-guide)

**Mission Hb Cleaning, Maintenance & Infection Control Guide**  
[Learn how to maintain and clean the Mission Hb system](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hb-cleaning-maintenance-infection-control-guide)

* * *

## Compare Mission Hb with Other Hemoglobin Meters

**Quikchek Plus vs Mission vs TrueHb Hemoglobin Meter Comparison**  
[Compare the three digital hemoglobin meter systems](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/hemoglobin-meter-comparison-quikchek-plus-vs-mission-vs-truehb)

**Hemoglobin Meters & Test Strips Complete Guide**  
[Learn about digital hemoglobin meters and Hb test strips](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/hemoglobin-meters-test-strips-complete-guide)

**Digital Hemoglobin Monitoring Systems: Purchasing & Configuration Guide**  
[Compare meter kits, starter strips, refill packs and combo configurations](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/digital-hemoglobin-monitoring-systems-purchasing-configuration-guide)

* * *

## Mission Hb Products Available from Microsidd

### Mission Hb Hemoglobin Monitor with 10 Strips

Mission Hb starter testing system supplied with the meter and an initial quantity of compatible strips.

[**View Mission Hb Monitor with 10 Strips**](https://microsidd.com/products/mission-hb-hemoglobin-monitor-with-10-strips)

### Mission Hemoglobin Test Strips – 50 Pack

Compatible replacement strips for existing Mission Hb users.

[**View Mission Hb Test Strips – 50 Pack**](https://microsidd.com/products/mission-hb-strips-pack-of-50-strips)

### Mission Hb Monitor Combo – Total 60 Strips

The Mission starter system with 10 strips plus an additional 50-strip refill pack.

[**View Mission Hb Monitor with Total 60 Strips**](https://microsidd.com/products/mission-hb-monitor-with-50-strips)

* * *

## Important Storage Note

Diagnostic test strips should be treated as controlled consumables rather than ordinary plastic accessories.

Always check the **exact product name, strip lot, code information, printed expiry date, opened date and storage conditions** before testing.

If strips have been clearly exposed to inappropriate temperature, excessive humidity, water, damaged packaging or contamination, do not assume that returning them to normal storage conditions restores their performance.

When a result is unexpected or clinically important, review test-strip storage together with the full testing procedure and obtain appropriate laboratory confirmation when necessary.

* * *

## Buy Genuine Mission Hb Test Strips from Microsidd.com

Microsidd supplies Mission Hb Hemoglobin Monitors, compatible replacement strips and meter-and-strip combinations for laboratories, clinics, screening programmes, healthcare professionals and individual users.

Before ordering, verify the **brand, exact meter model, compatible strip type, pack size and quantity required**.

**This product is non-returnable and non-exchangeable.**  
Please verify the **brand, model, compatibility, pack size and product specifications before placing your order**.  
Genuine cases involving an **incorrect product received** will be handled separately according to Microsidd.com's applicable policies and applicable law.  
**An original, continuous, unedited and uncut unboxing video is compulsory for making any claim regarding an incorrect product received.**

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> Source: [Microsidd India](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/mission-hemoglobin-strips-expiry-storage-guide)