Your Complete Guide to Storing Cannabis Edibles
In recent years, cannabis edibles emerged as a popular and lucrative route in light of medical marijuana’s legalization in some states. While some people prefer the conventional method of smoking cannabis flower, other patients prefer edibles’ subtle presentation. After all, aside from gaining the same benefits, edibles eliminate the harmful effects of inhaling smoke.
But like cannabis flowers, even edibles have a limited shelf-life. Proper storage practices are necessary if you want to prolong their use and potency. If you consume cannabis edibles and are unsure how to store them, this article is for you.
MedWell Health & Wellness explores everything you need to know about storing cannabis edibles.
Shelf Life of Cannabis Edibles Before Going Stale
The shelf-life of cannabis edibles depend on the type of edible. Generally speaking, cannabis edibles made with preservatives usually last longer than other edible routes.
One rule of thumb to remember is that cannabis edibles usually last as long as their non-cannabis-infused counterparts. For instance, cannabis brownies or cookies will last as long as regular brownies and cookies. THC-infused gummy bears also share the same storage life as regular gummies.
But one thing to remember is that THC degrades over time. Properly storing cannabis edibles like gummies could remain consumable and high-inducing for around three to six months. However, cannabis brownies may only last a week before expiring. At that point, consumption is no longer advisable, even if the cannabinoids remain potent.
Signs that edibles have gone bad
If you’re looking for visible and tangible signs that cannabis edibles are way past due, here are some:
- Discoloration
- Presence of mold and mildew
- Funky and rancid odors
- Condensation droplets visible in the container
- Rough, brittle, or dry to touch
Best Storage Materials for Edibles
Regardless of your storage materials, cannabis edibles do go bad when they reach their expiration dates. However, storing cannabis edibles in proper containers maximizes an edible’s projected shelf-life.
Here are some of the best storage materials to use:
- Silicone containers: Best for the temporary storage of cannabis-infused goods. Ideal for edibles like cookies or brownies that are consumed as soon as possible.
- Airtight containers: Best for storing cannabis edibles for about a week. Ziploc bags block air from passing through, so the food remains fresh. Using parchment paper to wrap the edibles also prevents oxidation, minimizing the deterioration of edibles.
- Glass jars: Glass jars are one of the best semi-long-term containers for edibles. This is a good storage option for gummy bears and baked goods.
- Freezer: The best place to store cannabis edibles is in the freezer. Subjecting edibles to cold temperatures freezes molecule movement and bacterial growth. As a result, microorganisms that cause spoilage and foodborne illness enter a dormant state, and cannabis edibles remain fresh indefinitely.
Additional Recommendations for Cannabis Edibles Storage
- Do not use clear containers in storing cannabis edibles. Exposure to light for long periods degrades cannabis, damaging its potency.
- Write the packaging date on all containers to backtrack their shelf lives.
- Always purchase edibles from safe and verified dispensaries to ensure you’re getting actual fresh edible batches.
Cannabis comes in many forms and, in turn, many storage practices.
Click the link here if you want to learn about the proper storage of cannabis flowers. Meanwhile, if prolonging the life of vape cartridges interests you more, you may follow the link.
We are working on an upcoming post about the best child-safe practices in storing medical marijuana. To keep up with the latest news in the cannabis community, follow MedWell Health & Wellness on Facebook.
Aaron Bloom serves as the CEO, overseeing the mission and growth of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers. Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives comes from his background in health care. For more than 20 years, Aaron owned, operated, and represented traditional healthcare organizations. This experience created a passion for finding improved ways to relieve suffering. His goal as CEO is to work daily to relieve all patients who seek better health and wellness through the medicinal benefits of medical cannabis and evidence-based alternative medicines.
