Does It Matter How I Store My CBD?
Like most natural products, CBD does expire. But, you obviously want to get the most out of your purchase. Since the expiration date of your CBD can be reliant on how you store your product, it is important to know the dos and don’ts of CBD storage.
Does CBD Oil Expire?
Yes, in fact, all CBD products will eventually expire. CBD oil expires typically within one to two years of purchase, though you should always verify based on the company you purchase from. The same goes for CBD gummies, salves, softgels, and all other products.
There are many factors that determine the shelf life of CBD products. Many are related to the overall quality of the product – the ingredients and extraction process. This is one of the many reasons why understanding batch testing, and even general labeling is so important.
Other factors include packaging and storage. A reputable CBD company will always have dark or tinted containers for its products. For example, you might be familiar with the amber color of dark oil cartridges. By protecting the products from sunlight in dark containers, the company is aiding you in keeping the product fresh for longer periods of time.
Additionally, all CBD containers should be airtight. This prevents your CBD products from decay, as extended exposure to oxygen or humidity can cause CBD to break down. It also ensures that no bugs or other creatures – even your lovable pets – can get access to your products.
Purchasing Quality CBD
The overall quality of your CBD will ultimately determine how long it lasts. But how do you know if you’re getting a quality product? To understand this, you first need to have knowledge of third-party batch testing.
If a CBD company doesn’t do third-party testing, they likely are not as reliable as you think they are. Third-party testing is when the product is tested by a facility outside of the company. This means that the product is tested by someone with no stakes in the product, making their analysis unbiased. Testing in this manner is far more accurate and keeps brands from lying about their products.
Has My CBD Gone Bad?
So, we know that CBD can expire, but how do we tell if it has expired? There are a few different qualities you should keep an eye out for when assessing your CBD products.
Expired CBD Oil or Tinctures
When CBD oils or tinctures expire, there are a few signs you can look for. First of all, the tincture will be much thicker than it usually is. This can be tricky, though, as the same quality can occur if CBD oil is too cold. So, make sure your CBD is at room temperature when assessing how thick it is. Expired CBD oil may also seem darker than it typically looks. Again, make sure you’re examining it at room temperature.
Don’t be afraid to use your other senses as well. Expired CBD oil may smell or taste rancid, making it abundantly clear that it is time to replenish your stock. If something about it seems “off,” trust your gut. There are no special steps for disposing of CBD. It can be thrown out in your household garbage.
Expired CBD Gummies
CBD gummies can also be tricky when establishing if they are expired. You should look for a change of color or smell, like your other products. Some even say that expired CBD gummies can take on a vinegar-like odor.
Expired CBD SoftGels & Topical
It can be quite difficult to tell if CBD softgels or topicals have expired. These may be two very different methods of taking CBD, but their degradation is quite similar. There may be a change in color or smell, but this is not guaranteed. If you think your product has expired, or if the bottle tells you so, then you should play it safe and get a replacement.
Is CBD Safe If It Expires?
The quick answer to this question is yes. Expired CBD is very unlikely to do you any harm. Expired CBD is safe, but it is not likely to benefit you either. As CBD degrades, it loses potency. This means that the product loses effectiveness. Therefore, you are not going to see the usual effects of CBD.
CBD Storage
CBD storage is the one factor that you have full control over. Sure, you have your choice of reputable CBD companies, but once the product enters your hands, CBD storage is key to keeping your product from losing potency.
As we’ve mentioned, CBD is sensitive to light, oxygen, and moisture. While packaging like dark oil cartridges can help with these sensitivities, your placement of the product can too. Make sure your CBD is stored in a dry, shaded area to keep it from degrading.
Keeping it in a shaded area also helps as CBD is sensitive to temperature. The ideal spot for your CBD will maintain a temperature of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. So keep it away from heaters, air conditioners, and windows – all of which may cause fluctuations in temperature. This will also make it easier to establish whether or not your CBD has gone bad, as we discussed above.
Lastly, make sure you close the container properly each time you take your CBD. This will limit all contaminants – like bugs or humidity – from reaching your product. The better preserved your product is, the longer it will last before expiring.
Getting The Most of Your CBD
At Naked Roots CBD, our mission boils down to one thing – we want to be your one-stop source for what you need when it comes to CBD. We will always deliver Premium Grade CBD products that are ROOTED in Quality, Trust, and Transparency.
No matter what you purchase, we are confident you will love our products. From deliciously flavored tinctures to relaxing bath bombs, we have something that will fit into your daily routine. Extend the life of your CBD by purchasing products that are high-quality at Naked Roots CBD!
