An apparatus for the storage of a protein (20) comprising a first compartment (30) for storing the protein (20) and a second compartment (40) for storing an alkaline buffer (50), the second compartment (40) being in fluid communication with the first compartment (30) is described. In one preferential embodiment of the invention, the alkaline buffer comprises calcium ions which encourage the gelling of the protein (20). A method for the storage of a protein (20) is also described. The method comprises: a first step of placing the protein in a first storage compartment (30); a second step of exposing the protein (20) to an alkaline buffer (50); and a third step of maintaining the protein (20) in the alkaline atmosphere in the first storage compartment (30).