What is the best long-term storage condition for liquid blood?

Liquid blood is best stored in refrigerated conditions to maintain its integrity over the long term. Refrigeration slows the growth of microbial contaminants and helps to preserve the biochemical properties of the blood. At temperatures typically between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, various components of blood, including cells, proteins, and other constituents, are adequately preserved for analysis or later use.

This storage method also facilitates the separation of components like plasma and serum, which is vital for many forensic and medical analyses. Although freezing blood can preserve it for longer periods, it may cause damage to the cells and affect the viability of certain components, making refrigeration a more suitable option for many analytical purposes. Hence, this method aligns with best practices for preserving liquid blood for forensic applications.