How Long Does Cannabis Stay Fresh?
The shelf life of cannabis depends on the type of product and the quantity of plant matter or other fresh ingredients it contains. When stored correctly, dried cannabis can last between six months to a year. Over time, cannabis loses its aroma and potency. After the one year mark, the weed won’t be as potent, though it will be safe for consumption. Finally, past two years, the quality of the weed will be severely deteriorated and not worth consuming since it’s unlikely to offer a good experience.
Cannabis Freshness Guidelines
Cannabis freshness best-by dates vary by product type. This means a flower won’t last the same as a tincture or an edible. Each of these products are made with different methods and ingredients that will impact how they age. Here are general guidelines for each category:
Medical Marijuana
This umbrella term covers various cannabis products so check the label or ask your pharmacist for expiration details.
CBD Tinctures
Tinctures have the longest shelf life among cannabis products. High-proof alcohol-based tinctures can remain fresh for up to ten years if stored properly. Oil-based tinctures typically last for about two years.
Cannabis Flower
The longevity of cannabis flower depends on how well it is cured and stored. Properly dried and cured flowers, kept in mason jars away from sunlight in a cool, dry place, can last up to 18 months, though potency decreases after six months.
Hash and Wax
Concentrates like hash, wax, budder, and shatter last longer than flowers due to the lower plant material content. Hashish can last around 18 months, while waxes and shatter can stay potent for up to two years, losing potency after about twelve to eighteen months.
Cannabis Edibles
Edibles expire faster due to perishable ingredients. Homemade edibles like brownies and cakes last two to three days in airtight containers. Store-bought edibles may last longer due to preservatives, but typically come with a use-by date. Cannabis-infused candies can last six to nine months.
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)
RSO, made with an alcohol infusion process, can last up to ten years if stored properly.
Vapes
Vape pens contain cannabis extract with no plant material, allowing them to last around two to three years without significant potency loss if stored correctly.
Topicals
Cannabis topicals like creams, oils, and gels can last up to two years if sealed and stored properly. Cannabis-infused cosmetics also have a similar shelf life, depending on their ingredients.
How to Tell If Your Cannabis Is Expired
Sometimes weed that’s past it’s prime will look similar to 6-month old cannabis. There are several signs which indicate expired cannabis, here’s how to spot them:
It Smells Bad
A foul smell, like rotten eggs, indicates expiration. Familiar strains have a distinctive “skunky” smell, so anything off from that is a red flag.
The Texture Changes
Fragile, crumbling cannabis suggests it has gone bad. Note the texture at purchase and watch for changes over time.
You See Mold
Mold appears as discolored spots or white fuzz. Moldy cannabis, like moldy bread, should be discarded immediately. Mold can be hard to see but often looks like white powdery or fuzzy spots. It smells musty, like hay, and tastes off. Always inspect your weed for mold, as it can lead to health issues, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Can Using Expired Marijuana Harm You?
While ingesting expired marijuana is unlikely to cause serious harm, it can lead to nausea and other digestive issues. When in doubt, throw it out.
How to Store Cannabis Correctly
Light, humidity, temperature, and oxygen can all affect cannabis, impacting its aroma, taste, and potency. Here are some tips for proper storage:
Unlit Joints vs. Lit Joints
Leftover weed in half-smoked joints can lose moisture, potency, and have altered cannabinoid and terpene concentrations, affecting the smoking experience.
After extinguishing your joint, store it properly using:
- Glass mason jars for airtight seals.
- “Doob tubes” specifically designed for storing joints.
- Avoid plastic bags, as they can create static that pulls trichomes off the bud.
Old Flower
Signs of expired weed include bad smell, crumbling texture, and visible mold.
Do’s and Don’ts of Extending Weed’s Shelf Life
Cannabis, like any organic product, is susceptible to environmental factors such as light, humidity, temperature, and air exposure. Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and potency of your cannabis.
By understanding and applying the best practices for cannabis storage, you can ensure that your stash remains fresh, flavorful, and potent for as long as possible. Whether it’s flowers, tinctures, edibles, or concentrates, these tips will help you maintain the quality of your cannabis.
Do:
- Store in airtight containers, like glass mason jars.
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from light and heat.
- Store Different Strains Separately: Keep different strains in separate containers to preserve their unique flavors and aromas.
- Monitor Temperature: Keep your cannabis in an environment with a stable temperature, ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C).
Don’t:
- Freeze it for more than a few days, as it degrades cannabis and decreases potency.
- Expose to Air: Avoid frequent opening of containers, as exposure to air can lead to oxidation and degradation.
- Use Plastic Bags: Plastic can create static, which can strip trichomes from your buds, reducing potency.
- Store Near Strong Odors: Cannabis can absorb strong smells from its surroundings, affecting its flavor and aroma.
When in Doubt, Throw it Out
Now you know how to store cannabis properly so it remains fresh and potent for as long as possible. Always check for signs of expiration, such as changes in smell, texture, and the presence of mold. Proper storage techniques and awareness of product shelf life can help you make the most of your cannabis products. At the end of the day, no amount of weed is worth the discomfort you’ll feel, so when in doubt throw it out and go to your favorite dispensary to get a new batch.
