You’re just getting into the world of edibles, and you’ve got more edibles than you should ideally eat in a day. What can you do then? Store them, of course. But you’ll have a burning question — will they go bad?
This is a question everyone has when they are starting with cannabis edibles. Worry not, we’re here to answer all your questions regarding this. In this article, learn about the shelf life of edibles and how you can maximize it.
What are Cannabis Edibles?
Let’s start with the basics first — what are edibles? They are any foods that have been jazzed up with cannabinoids such as CBD or THC. These food products are awesome when you want to get high without smoking or vaping. Plus, the high from edibles is usually stronger and lasts longer than smoked cannabis.
Here, the cannabinoids are processed by your digestive system instead of the lungs. When you consume them, the cannabinoids enter the liver, where they are metabolized and passed on into your bloodstream. Once they reach the brain, funny things start happening. This is why it usually takes some time for edibles to take effect — they take the long way around.
Edible cannabis products have become increasingly popular — and for good reasons. Firstly, they are best for those who don't want to smoke or vape cannabis.
Secondly, edibles don't make it hard to use cannabis. For example, many people struggle to smoke joints or vape. On the other hand, consuming edibles is akin to eating delicious candies. Needless to say, they are super discreet, which is particularly valuable in situations where smoking or vaping may not be socially acceptable or legally allowed.
Moreover, edibles offer a precise dosing method compared to smoking as they are typically labeled with dosages, allowing you to know the amount of THC or CBD per serving.
However, understanding the expiration dates of edibles is crucial as they can degrade over time like any food product leading to changes in taste, texture, potency, and safety. You want the edibles to work in a certain way, but expired edibles may be harmful.
This is because the cannabinoids found in edibles, like THC and CBD, can break down over time due to various factors such as exposure to light, heat, and air. When cannabinoids degrade, their effectiveness decreases too, so consuming an expired edible may not have the intended effects. For instance, an outdated cannabis-infused chocolate bar might not offer the relaxation or pain relief as fresh edibles with effective cannabinoids. The chocolate may not be the culprit here, but there are other ingredients that expire. Thus, knowing the expiry date helps you assess the strength of the product and you can experience the effects you desire.
Regarding safety, expired edibles can harbor bacteria and mold like any other food item. As edibles age, their composition changes, which means that eating them raises the risk of food-related illnesses that can result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This danger is especially worrisome if you have a weak immune system. Most people consume edibles for health reasons, but since this will provide the opposite effects, it's best to stay away from them.
In addition, there may be changes in the taste, texture, and smell, making the experience less enjoyable for you. For instance, an expired gummy candy may become too chewy or taste bad while a cannabis-infused drink could lose its flavor and become stale.
Common Types of Cannabis Edibles
Edibles don’t come in a single flavor, far from it. There are various types of edibles you can purchase or cook up, such as the following:
- Candies and gummies
- Baked products like pot brownies, cookies, pies, etc.
- Meals, including pizza, soup, chicken tikka masala, etc.
- Sauces and condiments, including salad dressing and hot sauces
- Drinks like juices, coffee, tea, soda, etc.
- Pills or capsules that you can directly consume
- Cannabis oils and tinctures that you can add to virtually any food you’re eating, including a McDonald’s burger
Why do Cannabis Edibles Expire
Various factors influence how long edibles remain edible before spoiling. These factors include the ingredients used in making them, how they are packaged, and the conditions under which they are stored.
Understanding these elements is essential for both producers and consumers to guarantee the durability and quality of the product.
The ingredients used to make food items will directly affect their shelf life. Various elements, such as water content, susceptibility to decay, and overall quality impact how long a food item stays fresh and suitable for consumption.
If you use a lot of water in making edibles, they will be more susceptible to decay, which can significantly reduce the shelf life. Also, other products that contain water will work in the same way. For instance, if you're making edibles that need milk, cream, or butter, the likelihood of expiry increases as they contain water and are also vulnerable to mold.
Likewise, fresh fruits and vegetables that have more water content can also hasten the deterioration if you don't handle and store them correctly. The moisture in fruits can encourage mold and yeast growth, causing them to spoil rapidly.
Certain oils, especially those containing fats, are also at risk of oxidation leading to rancidity and a shorter shelf life. Even olive oil and various nut oils can change in taste and nutritional value when they are exposed to air and light.
The quality and freshness of ingredients play a role in determining how long food items last. Using high-quality ingredients can significantly extend the shelf life of the product while using stale or expired ingredients can speed up its deterioration process.
For instance, eggs are typically used to make brownies and cookies. Although fresh eggs can work and don't spoil quickly, expired eggs can destroy edibles and other food items pretty quickly.
Other items can speed up the expiry date too. Imagine a cannabis brownie made with eggs, chocolate, and flour. The freshness and quality of these ingredients play a role in maintaining the brownie's texture, taste, and potency over time. As long as you use premium ingredients, everything will be fine; however, even if you use chocolate or flour that has gone past its expiry date, your entire batch of brownies can get spoiled.
As you can understand by now, the quality of ingredients significantly impacts how long edibles last. By opting for high-quality ingredients and ensuring proper handling and storage practices, you can produce high-quality edibles that last a long time.
Packaging Cannabis Edibles
Packaging isn't just about making the product look cute or unique. It helps with something much more important — preserving the quality and safety of edibles. Proper packaging serves as a shield against many factors that could hasten their deterioration, ensuring they retain their freshness, flavor, and potency throughout their shelf life.
External elements like light, sir, moisture, and even changes in the temperature can all make edibles degrade fast. Thus, it's very important to package your edibles in such a way that they aren't exposed to such factors, whether you plan to sell or use them personally.
Remember to seal the edibles, especially the ones with fats and oils, to maintain their quality for a long time. Exposure to air can lead to fats going bad and flavors deteriorating. However, if you seal them in airtight containers, you'll be able to limit air exposure and allow them to remain fresh for longer.
You should also package the edibles in opaque or UV-resistant containers as UV light can break down cannabinoids, and change the flavor and color of the product. Opaque containers will also retain the flavors of your precious edibles.
If you're not satisfied with the packaging, you can also use vacuum-sealed packaging since it's a great technique to extend the shelf life of edibles. Removing air from the package through vacuum sealing reduces the risk of oxidation and microbial growth. Without oxygen, microorganisms that need it for growth are unable to thrive, so your edibles will be fresh and also remain potent for quite a while.
And, the packaging is just about packing the items well — you need to consider the materials you used for packing as well. This will not only help ensure that the edibles remain safe during transportation and handling, but also prevent damage and contamination.
Finally, since we are talking about edibles infused with cannabis, you have to pay special attention that they are inaccessible to children. Children love cookies and brownies, so make sure your children or pets cannot eat them.
Signs of Expired Cannabis Edibles
Recognizing when edibles have expired is vital for safeguarding their quality and safety. Although edibles tend to last longer than regular food items, they can still deteriorate with time. Carefully examine your edibles to find some common signs that indicate spoiled edibles:
1. Visual Indicators
Inspecting the appearance is typically the best way to tell if an edible has gone bad. Watch out for any changes in looks such as:
Discoloration: Spots, mold growth, or color changes suggest growth or oxidation.
Texture Alterations: Expired edibles may turn overly dry, sticky, or hard if exposed to air, for long.
Packaging Concerns: If the packaging shows signs of damage like tears, punctures, or swelling, it might indicate contamination as the product wasn't sealed properly.
2. Scent Changes
Just like you determine the freshness of food items with their fragrance, you can do the same with edibles. Fresh edibles usually have a delectable aroma. However, if you notice that the edibles smell stale or rancid, it could imply spoilage.
Also, check if the edibles smell musty. Typically, this means that there could be mold, whereas rancid odors mean that the fats and oils in the edibles are turning bad due to oxidation.
3. Potency and taste
The potency and taste of edibles can also help you determine whether the edibles can still be consumed or not.
When edibles expire they might change the taste. While they may taste bitter at times, they may also taste sour or weird due to ingredient breakdown or microbial growth.
In addition, the cannabinoids can deteriorate over time, leading to decreased potency. So, if you're purchasing or making edibles to experience certain effects, you may not feel them or they can be very mild, depending on the state of the edibles.
First, try a piece of the edible to evaluate its flavor and potency. If it tastes bad or doesn't work as expected it's best to get rid of it. However, remember that you need to wait a while before judging the potency. Unlike smoking a joint that produces effects almost immediately, edibles take a while to produce effects. So, even if you're not high or experiencing any kind of effects, whether you're consuming THC or CBD edibles, wait for at least 1-2 hours before arriving at a conclusion.
How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Last?
Cannabis edibles tend to have a long shelf life, however, it is always recommended that you consume the edibles within a year. This is because the THC or CBD within the edibles degrades over time. So, after a year, the edibles may not hit you as you’d expect them to. In other words, cannabinoids have a shelf life of a year.
However, the actual shelf life of your edibles may vary drastically. It depends on what kind of edibles you have at hand. It all boils down to the perishable ingredients your edibles have, whether it is oils vegetables, or anything else. For example, fresh juice may last less than gummies.
Here is a basic guideline for common edible types and their shelf life:
- Gummies and hard candies tend to last pretty long and usually don’t get spoiled if you take care of them
- Some chocolate edibles may also last a long time — remember, dark chocolate doesn’t have an expiration date. However, you have a “best before” date, which means they retain their freshness until that period. Also, the ingredients used to make it expire, so chocolate will also go bad
- Dairy edibles may not last a long time, depending on the base ingredients
- Baked products are not so durable and have the shortest shelf life, so you must consume them within the first few days for the best results
- Oils, pills, or tinctures can also last virtually for many years as long as you store them correctly
The thing with edibles is that the base food products will usually go bad long before the cannabinoids degrade. Still, you must account for the shelf life of cannabinoids. There’s no point saving a gummy for later when you don’t enjoy it. This usually happens due to light, heat, and oxygen exposure to cannabinoids.
According to one study, cannabinoids lost around 16.6% of their potency over one year. There isn’t a similar study that focuses on cannabis edibles, but it’s best to stick to a year as the shelf life for most cannabis edibles because that’s when the cannabinoids will go bad.
Best Storage Options for Cannabis Edibles
Maintaining proper storage conditions will help preserve the quality and potency of your edibles and also extend their shelf life. Remember how you should pack the edibles well to prevent exposure to external elements? Well, the same rule applies here.
For example, changes in temperature, humidity, and exposure to light can have an effect on how long cannabinoids last and the overall quality of the product.
Therefore, if you plan to store the edibles, keep them in a dark place to maintain their quality. Store them away from heat sources as high temperatures can speed up the breakdown of cannabinoids, leading to a loss of potency and alterations in taste and texture.
For instance, chocolates and gummies can lose their shape when exposed to heat. They will look distorted and the texture may be affected as well. And, if your edibles contain fats or oils, they will smell weird too.
Apart from the temperature, you should consider the humidity too as it's another factor that influences the lifespan of edibles. High humidity creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, thereby increasing the likelihood of spoilage and foodborne illnesses. Moisture can also make edibles damp or moldy, making them unsuitable for consumption.
To prevent such issues related to moisture, it's important to keep edibles in a dry place. Avoid storing them in the kitchen and use the pantry or cupboard. Also, keep them in airtight, opaque containers to prevent exposure to light.
If you plan to store the edibles for a long time, you can consider refrigerating or freezing them as they can help prolong the shelf life of many types of edibles, especially if they contain perishable ingredients like dairy or fresh fruit. Refrigeration slows down the growth of microbes and also preserves the freshness of the product.
However, you should pack them well to prevent the edibles from absorbing too much moisture. Opt for vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers when storing edibles in the refrigerator or freezer. Additionally, allow edibles to thaw at room temperature before consumption to avoid condensation and preserve their texture and flavor.
Here are some tips you can keep in mind:
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Freeze Your Baked Edibles
Think of your brownies and cookies like delicate flowers — they wilt and dry out quickly at room temperature. The freezer is their happy place, keeping them moist and delicious for months. Just remember to thaw them completely before indulging, because cannabinoids can get trapped in ice crystals during freezing, affecting the taste and potency.
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Keep Gummies and Candies Sealed
These colorful chews are generally less delicate than baked goods. Their original packaging, if resealable, is perfectly fine. But for long-term storage or if the packaging isn't ideal, transfer them to an airtight container. Tossing in a humidity pack helps these chewy delights stay soft and fresh.
New to edibles and want to start slow? Grab a clean knife to portion out a small piece instead of biting straight in as that introduces bacteria. Then, store your microdose in an airtight container and find it in a cool, dark spot like a pantry or drawer.
Other Tips
- Aim for a cool, dark space around 60-70°F. The fridge can work in a pinch, but some edibles, especially baked goods, might dry out over time.
- Air and moisture are the enemies of your edibles! Use airtight containers to keep your edibles safe. Consider vacuum sealing for super-sensitive items like chocolates or particularly moist treats.
- Don't be afraid to give your edibles a once-over now and then. If anything looks weird, smells off, or tastes funky, it's best to err on the side of caution and toss it. Mold is a particular concern, and it can contaminate other edibles in storage.
- Fresher edibles generally have a stronger effect. To maximize potency and freshness, try to buy only what you expect to consume within a few months.
- Those "best by" dates on the packaging aren't a hard and fast rule, but they give you a general idea of when the edibles are expected to be at peak freshness.
- If you take a bite and something just tastes off, don't risk it! Toss it out and reach for a fresh edible.
By following these storage tips, you can make your cannabis edibles last much longer and enjoy them before they degrade. Thanks to these tips, you'll be able to enjoy your favorite treats for longer, and get the most out of their delicious taste and potent effects!
Can You Eat Expired Cannabis Edibles?
Ever wonder if those forgotten edibles are still good to eat? While expired edibles generally won't make you sick, they're kind of like last week's bread — the quality and potency just aren't the same. The biggest bummer? Potential stomach issues like nausea or an upset stomach.
Here's how you can be an edible detective and get the most out of your edibles:
- If your edibles have a "best by" date, it's your best clue to freshness.
- Give your edibles a good once-over. Look for any mold, discoloration, or changes in texture — these are all signs they might be past their prime.
- Gummies should be soft and bendy. If they've turned hard, brittle, or sticky, it's best to let them go.
- Think cool, dark, and dry — that's the storage sweet spot for edibles. Heat is the enemy, so keep them away from direct sunlight.
- The original packaging is there for a reason! If it's ripped or open, the edibles might have been exposed to air and moisture, affecting their quality.
- If everything seems okay, take a tiny nibble to check the taste. If it's off or rancid, play it safe and toss it.
By following these tips, you can be an informed edible consumer and enjoy your treats to the fullest.
Can You Freeze Cannabis Edibles?
We mentioned freezing some edibles earlier, but let’s dive further into it for a bit. This is a crucial aspect of keeping your edibles for longer.
So, can you freeze your edibles and enjoy them later? Absolutely! Freezing is like hitting the pause button on freshness, potency, and flavor. It keeps your treats fresh for much longer than room temperature or even the fridge.
But here's the thing: Freezing can sometimes affect the texture and look of your edibles, depending on what they are.
Gummies, candies, chocolates, and hard candies survive the freezer, though. They freeze properly and hold their shape and texture. Baked goods like cookies and brownies? Not so much. Freezing them for too long can make them dry, crumbly, or even soggy.
Top Tip: Seal Tight! The key to freezing edibles successfully is using airtight containers or bags. This keeps freezer burn, moisture loss, funky smells, and cannabinoid breakdown at bay. Think plastic containers, ziplock bags, or even fancy vacuum-sealed bags. Glass jars with tight lids work well too.
Remember, even frozen edibles aren't invincible. Check for signs of spoilage before indulging, like discoloration, mold, weird smells, or changes in texture. Reduced potency is another sign they might be past their prime. If anything seems off, play it safe and toss it.
Summary: Do Cannabis Edibles Have An Expiration Date?
Now you're armed with the knowledge to be a confident and informed edible consumer! With proper storage techniques, you can extend the shelf life of your edibles and enjoy their delicious flavors and potent effects for longer.
Remember, responsible consumption is key, so always start with a low dose and wait for the full effects to kick in before having more. Happy indulging!
