How To Store Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis-infused edibles offer a convenient and inconspicuous way to consume cannabinoids compared to smoking or vaping, which emit smoke and have a noticeable aroma. However, once you’ve opened the package, storing the uneaten edibles properly is important to prevent degradation from environmental factors such as heat, moisture, and mould.

If you’re curious about creating cannabis edibles, how long the effects last, or how to store them properly, you’re not alone. While the specifics of storage can vary based on the type of product, general guidelines apply to all types of cannabis-infused edibles. Simply keeping them in a cupboard out of children’s reach won’t suffice. Luckily, we have some suggestions on how to preserve the freshness and flavour of your cannabis edibles.

Types of Cannabis Edibles

Before we go on to how to store them, it’s best to first identify the different types of cannabis edibles that will need proper storage.

Cannabis edibles come in various forms, from classic baked goods to innovative and trendy products. Here are some of the different types of cannabis edibles:

Baked goods: Brownies, cookies, muffins, and other baked goods are some of the most popular cannabis edibles. These treats are made by infusing cannabis into butter or oil, which is then used instead of regular butter or oil in the recipe.
Candies: Gummies, lollipops, and hard candies are also common cannabis edibles. These are often made using gelatin or pectin and are flavoured with various fruit extracts.
Chocolate: Chocolate is a versatile base for cannabis infusion, as it can be used to make bars, truffles, and other treats. Dark chocolate is especially popular, as it has a strong flavour that can help mask the taste of cannabis.
Beverages: Cannabis-infused beverages, such as tea, coffee, soda, and beer, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These drinks are often made using cannabis tinctures or syrups.
Tinctures: Cannabis tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts often added to food or drinks. They are made by soaking cannabis in high-proof alcohol, which extracts cannabinoids and other compounds.
Capsules: Cannabis capsules are pre-measured doses of cannabis oil or powder encapsulated in gelatin or vegan-friendly shells. These are often used for medicinal purposes.

How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Last?

The shelf life of your cannabis edibles varies based on their type:

Baked goods can last a few days at room temperature, one to four weeks in the fridge, and several months in the freezer.
Shelf-stable drinks can last up to nine months unopened in a pantry.
Infused oils can last six months to a year in a cool, dark cabinet.
Dark chocolate wrapped in foil and stored in an airtight container can last up to a year when kept in a cool, dry, dark cabinet. Milk and white chocolate can last up to ten months.
Hard candies typically last up to a year when stored correctly, while jelly or soft candies may stay fresh for six to nine months.

What Are the Best Storage Materials For Edibles?

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness and potency of cannabis-infused edibles like gummies, chocolate, brownies, and root beer. Your product type and storage method will determine how long your treats will stay fresh. Here are some popular storage options:

Silicone containers: Ideal for short-term storage, choose a container that fits the amount of cannabis you want to store to prevent moisture buildup.
Airtight containers: Wrap your edibles or concentrates in parchment paper and seal them in a Ziploc bag before placing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several weeks.
Glass jars: Before storing, Mason jars or similar glass containers work well, but wrap sticky concentrates in parchment paper (or aluminum foil/wax paper for edibles).
Freezer: Edibles and concentrates can be stored in the freezer for several months without losing quality or flavour. Slowly defrost your products to avoid sudden temperature changes that can impact the taste.

Overall, refrigeration is best for edibles and cannabis-infused cooking oils, especially those containing sugar, oil, or flour. Check the “best before” date on purchased edible products for an idea of their shelf life. Cannabutter can be stored in the fridge or freezer in a glass container.

What Temperature Is the Best For Storing Cannabis Edibles?

Keeping your edibles at the right temperature is important to maintain their effectiveness and flavour. Higher temperatures can cause chocolate and candies to melt and degrade edibles’ potency. It’s recommended to store edibles in cool temperatures, with gummies, hard candies, and chocolate stored in a cabinet away from heat sources. Baked goods can be stored in the pantry for a few days but should be refrigerated or frozen for longer storage. Shelf-stable drinks can be kept at room temperature before opening, but refrigeration is necessary once opened.

How Can You Tell If Your Edibles Have Gone Bad?

As there are various options, it’s natural to wonder if edibles have an expiration date. Like any food item, edibles can spoil. Thus, paying attention to the expiration date mentioned on the package of your preferred edible is essential. Baked goods and candies (such as gummies, lollipops, etc.) can last longer than condiments and energy drinks. Manufactured in larger facilities typically contain preservatives that last longer than homemade products. If an edible smells bad or looks odd, it’s best not to consume it.

Some signs indicate that edibles have gone bad: discoloration, mould, change in smell, condensation droplets in the container, and edibles feeling rough, brittle, or dry. To store edibles, use a retort pouch or tin containers and keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you want to store them in the freezer, wrap them in plastic, then foil, and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to consume them, et the edibles defrost slowly to preserve the taste.

Although expired gummies don’t pose a significant risk of food poisoning, homemade or small-batch gummies can be susceptible to mould due to the gelatin they contain. Thus, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. Additionally, potency can decrease with time, leading to an unexpected result, so it’s crucial to be aware of this possibility.

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FAQ

Can cannabis edibles go bad?

Yes, cannabis edibles can go bad. Like any food product, they can spoil over time or when not stored properly. It’s important to pay attention to the expiration date and signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, mould, changes in smell, or dryness. Homemade or small-batch edibles may be more susceptible to spoilage, and storing them in the refrigerator or freezer in an airtight container is recommended.

What happens if I eat expired cannabis edibles?

Consuming expired cannabis edibles can potentially lead to negative effects such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The potency of expired edibles may also decrease, resulting in weaker or unpredictable effects. It’s important to always check the expiration date on cannabis edibles before consuming them, and if in doubt, it’s best to dispose of them.

What is the best way to store my cannabis edibles?

To store cannabis edibles properly, it’s best to use airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in a cool, dry place. Silicone containers, glass jars, and the freezer are all popular options. Edibles with sugar, oil, or flour are best kept in the fridge. It’s important to pay attention to the expiration date and to look out for signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, mould, and changes in texture or smell. If you eat expired edibles, you may experience a loss of potency or other unpleasant effects.

Can I put my cannabis in the freezer?

Yes, many cannabis edibles can be stored in the freezer for extended periods without losing their potency or flavour. Wrapping the edibles in plastic, then foil, before placing them in an airtight container in the freezer is recommended. When ready to use, allow the edibles to defrost slowly to preserve their taste. However, it’s important to note that freezing can cause some changes in texture and consistency, particularly with edibles that contain dairy or eggs.

Which cannabis edible has the longest shelf life?

Cannabis edibles that are hard and have a low water content, such as hard candies, caramels, and chocolate, tend to have the longest shelf life. They can last several months when stored properly in a cool, dry place. However, checking the expiration date and paying attention to any signs of spoilage before consuming them is important.
It is not recommended to consume cannabis edibles past their expiration date, as the potency and quality may have significantly decreased. Consuming expired edibles may result in a negative experience, such as a loss of potency or an unpleasant taste.

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