After purchasing some delicious THC gummies, you want to make sure they last as long as possible. Nobody wants to bite into a gummy only to find it’s turned into a sticky mess. Many methods will help keep your gummies fresh and avoid having edibles expire quickly.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just like to keep a little stash for those rainy days, knowing the right storage tips can mean the difference between munching on a delightful treat and dealing with a gummy disaster. From the best temperatures to the ideal containers, we'll list the methods to extend the shelf life of THC gummies.
Do THC Gummies Expire?
Sometimes, finding a half-open bag of gummies in your kitchen cabinet will make you wonder what shape your gummy edibles are in. If you realize they’ve been sitting there for an extended period then you'll also wonder whether they are still capable of producing an effect. The thing is that THC gummies do indeed expire after a certain amount of time. Like anything else edible, they have a shelf life and that factor will vary depending on stuff like how you store edibles or the quality and potency of the THC edibles. Most THC gummies will have an expiration or "best by" date printed on the package, which although might not be super accurate, will still give a solid idea of how long the shelf life will be.
The THC in the gummies will degrade over time and likely lead to reduced potency. Expired gummies are not likely to cause any harm when consuming them, but will almost surely not provide the same effects as before. Due to degrading, the true potency in weed gummies may last between 6 to 12 months. Following certain steps will make THC gummies last longer.
The proper storage of your edibles is the key to a long shelf life. They should be kept in a spot with a cool, dry temperature and preferably from as little light as possible. This will prevent as much exposure to heat, light, and moisture as possible. Keeping cannabis products in a sealed container is the ideal way to protect them from those sorts of elements, as THC degrades faster due to them. Degradation will lead to changes in the texture and taste of the gummies - a clear sign that the edibles may be expiring and soon to lose potency. They can also become harder, sticky, or even dried out. Their flavor might taste "off", especially if they’ve been stored improperly or for too long. Gummies may develop mold, discoloration, or an off smell, which are clear signs that your gummy candies are no longer edible products.
What Happens If You Eat Expired Edibles?
Even though cannabis-infused edibles may be past their expiration date, there are still steps to determine whether they are safe to eat. Edibles can last longer than their expiration dates especially if you know the best way to store them. But before popping one into your mouth it is important to review some aspects of your cannabis-infused gummies.
Eating expired gummies doesn’t necessarily mean you’re harming yourself, but there are a few things to keep in mind. All edibles have a shelf life and it will vary based on what’s in them - think about the difference between brownies filled with preservatives and homemade cannabis cookies made with fresh ingredients. The potency of THC in the product will also factor into when cannabis edibles expire. Cannabinoids will not maintain their potency due to many factors, and leave you with a much milder experience than you might expect.
What Determines the Shelf Life of Edible Gummies?
Munching on any type of edible cannabis product may lead to a euphoric high that you might remember for a while. But these delicious treats will unfortunately lose their potency over time - especially when they are stashed away and forgotten about.
An unopened box or packet of THC gummies can have a longer shelf life - up to even a year - if stored correctly. Opened gummies though are best when consumed within 6 months, mainly to maintain optimal freshness and potency. Gummies should always be inspected before use, especially if they are stored for an extended period. This will ensure they’re still in good condition.
From the ingredients used to make them to how they are packaged, every little detail determines when your edible gummies expire. The storage temperature, the amount of moisture, and exposure to light can either shorten or extend shelf life. Whether the gummies are fruit-flavored, sour, or infused with CBD will also play a role in having your edibles last longer.