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Ever wondered if your favorite cannabis-infused treat has a ticking clock on its freshness? Cannabis edibles are a go-to choice for both recreational users and medical patients, but how long do they really last? Let’s dive into the shelf life of edibles, the best ways to store them, and what happens if they spoil.
What Are Edibles?
Cannabis edibles are essentially any ingestible product that has been infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Unlike cannabis products that are smoked or vaporized (e.g., flower, concentrates), edibles are swallowed and processed by the body’s digestive system.
Luckily, edibles have a fairly long shelf life. As a general rule, no matter the type of edible, you should consume edibles within a year. Not only can the edible ingredients expire, but the THC potency of the edible will go down over time. If you purchased your edibles from a dispensary, always go by the listed expiration date to determine if they’re still good to consume.
Do Edible Gummies Expire?
Because there is no evidence that cannabinoids cause the foods they’re infused with to degrade any faster than normal, determining the shelf life of edible gummies means looking at their ingredients. Edible gummies made with perishable ingredients will need to be consumed much faster than those made without. Therefore, a good rule of thumb is that the length of time you would keep traditional gummies is pretty much the same as you’d keep any cannabis-infused food items like cookies, chocolates, and juices.
Best Storage Options For Edibles
For proper storage of your edibles, you’ll want to keep your edibles away from light, heat, and air as much as possible. Keep your edibles in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or drawer. You can also toss them in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresher longer, but they will need to be thawed before being eaten.
The best storage conditions for cannabis-infused edibles are airtight containers, like mason jars. Plastic containers and bags will also work. If storing your edibles in the freezer, opt for a freezer-safe baggie or container.
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Eating expired edibles isn’t typically dangerous, but the experience may be less enjoyable. The primary concern is that the potency of THC or CBD in the edible can degrade over time, meaning it may not deliver the desired effects. For instance, expired gummies or chocolates might not give you the same high or therapeutic benefits as fresher ones. Additionally, the flavor and texture of expired edibles can change, making them taste stale or off. While most edibles won’t spoil in the traditional sense, baked goods and other products with perishable ingredients may grow mold or become unsafe to eat if stored improperly. If you notice any strange smells, mold, or significant changes in texture, it’s best to discard the edible to avoid any unpleasant side effects.
Final Takeaways
To sum it all up, you should aim to eat your cannabis edibles within six months for optimal freshness and potency. Most sources agree that properly stored edibles can still deliver the same effects for up to a year. Sugary edibles like gummies and hard candies may last longer, up to two years, while chocolate and baked goods have shorter lifespans, especially if they contain perishable ingredients.
Freezing edibles like infused candy and baked goods is a great way to preserve their freshness without affecting potency, allowing you to enjoy them over a longer period. Always store your edibles in a cool, dry place to maintain their quality. While eating expired edibles is not usually dangerous, it can result in a less enjoyable experience due to reduced potency and altered flavor or texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do edibles last for expiration?
Edibles generally last up to a year if stored properly. However, their potency may decrease after six months. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Are edibles good after 6 months?
Yes, most edibles are still good after six months if stored correctly. However, their freshness and potency may start to diminish slightly.
How long do gummy edibles last in the freezer?
Gummy edibles can last up to a year or more in the freezer without losing potency. Freezing them preserves both their flavor and texture.
How do you store edibles long-term?
For long-term storage, keep edibles in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Freezing is also an effective way to store edibles like gummies and baked goods for extended periods.
Lemetria Whitehurst is a cannabis nurse educator and writer specializing in cannabis science and culture. Her career in the medical industry spans more than two decades where she began her career as a pharmacy technician before becoming a registered nurse. As an avid reader
and researcher, she is passionate about educating others about cannabis’ medicinal properties.
Why do dispensaries in Louisiana sell marijuana that has been cold washed of it’s tricombs and most of the benefits of the flower,I realize the government will squeeze every drop of goodness out to make other products; but I find therapy in the whole grinding rolling then the smoking is a lot more cathartic than just smoking a preroll.At 63 I am an advocate of not killing your liver like I did on pain pill for decades.Thats just me.
I agree and have found a solution. Our Absorbits Wet rescue pouches work great to keep you medicine dry, but not dried out. Want to see for yourself? LMK where to send a sample
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