It’s common knowledge that expired products typically should not be consumed. However, what if the packaging for a THC product shows a very recent expiration date? Would using THC extracts that have expired be dangerous?  In any case, what is the half life of THC and how long does it last? 

Potential THC customers should be aware of the potential risks that come along with using expired products. Furthermore, it is important to understand the best practices for storage and maximizing the shelf life of THC products.

What Is the Shelf Life of THC Products?

Despite having a long shelf life, THC products will eventually go bad. The potency of any given THC product will decrease as the THC in your gummies or edibles gradually deteriorates over time. THC seems to be shelf-stable for roughly a year on average. Some claim that if you keep your product in the refrigerator, THC may stay bioavailable for two years.

Please keep in mind that a THC product does not necessarily have a one-year shelf life when it is delivered to your home. It's likely that the product you are purchasing was manufactured a long time ago and has been stored on store shelves for weeks or months. The expiration date provided by the manufacturer should give a fair indication of when this product may become less effective.

Is it Safe to Use Expired THC Products? 

Using an expired THC product is most likely "safe" if it is high-quality and accompanied by third-party lab test results.  There is little possibility that dangerous substances may eventually form in the packaging because these lab-screened products contain no evidence of contaminants.  Nevertheless, as a supplement deteriorates, there is always a chance of contamination, so check your products for any warning indications, such as a foul odor or visible evidence of mold.

While it’s not always technically “unsafe” to use high-quality THC products after expiration, it is likely that they won’t produce many noticeable benefits. This is because there probably won't be as much THC in these old goods, even if you were careful to preserve it correctly.  If you use a THC product after it has expired, please don't expect to feel the effects that were produced by the product when it was fresh. It is best to purchase THC products which have a lot of time before their expiration date whenever possible.

Maximize the Shelf Life of THC Products by Storing Them Properly

The length of time that THC maintains its maximum potency depends on how it is stored. It is best to store THC products in a consistently dry, dark, and cool area to keep the cannabinoids fresh. The effects of heat, light, and moisture will be lessened in such an environment.

Although it's not necessary, some people prefer to keep THC supplements in the refrigerator if they purchase them in large quantities. Although it's generally not required unless you're positive you won't use up all of your THC product before the expiration date, the colder temperatures in a refrigerator can prolong its shelf life.