Does CBD Oil Expire?
Yes, CBD oil does expire typically 12-24 months from manufacture. While expired CBD oil won't harm you, it loses potency over time. Store your CBD oil in a cool, dark cupboard below 21°C to maintain freshness.
So you've found a half-used bottle of CBD oil in the back of a drawer, and now you're wondering - is this stuff still good? The short answer: CBD oil will eventually expire. But don't worry, expired CBD oil isn't like spoiled milk. It won't make you sick - it just might not deliver the benefits of CBD you're looking for.
Let's walk through what affects the shelf life of your CBD oil, how to tell if your CBD oil has gone bad, and how to store your CBD properly to make it last as long as possible.
How Long Does CBD Oil Last?
The typical shelf life of CBD oil ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the overall quality of the CBD oil, the carrier oil used, and how you store your CBD oil. While CBD itself is a stable compound, CBD oil is no different from other natural products - it degrades over time, especially when exposed to heat, light, and air.
High-quality CBD oil made with organic hemp extract and premium carrier oils like MCT oil tends to have a shelf life of 1-2 years when stored correctly. CBD oil's shelf life depends largely on how well you keep your CBD oil protected from degradation. Reputable CBD companies that create CBD products understand this, which is why CBD oil is typically packaged in dark amber bottles.
What Makes CBD Oil Go Bad?
Several factors affect the shelf life and can accelerate the degradation of CBD. Understanding them helps extend the life of your CBD oil.
Light exposure is a major threat. UV rays break down cannabinoids, which impacts its shelf life significantly. Even indoor lighting can cause CBD oil to expire faster.
Temperature fluctuations affect its shelf life more than you might think. Store CBD oil in a cool, consistent environment - ideally below 21°C (70°F).
Oxygen exposure starts when you open the bottle. Each time you use CBD oil, air gets in and the oil can go bad faster. That's why smaller bottles often last as long as you need them, versus bulk purchases.
The carrier oil used in CBD oil makes a real difference. MCT oil may have a longer shelf life - up to two years. Hemp seed oil gives CBD oils and tinctures a shelf life of 12-14 months. CBD oil is usually suspended in a carrier oil that determines how long CBD oil lasts.
Humidity affects how people store their CBD and the product's shelf life. Moisture encourages bacterial growth in any CBD oil products.
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How to Tell if Your CBD Oil Has Expired
Here are signs your CBD oil has gone bad:
- Smell: Fresh CBD oil should smell earthy and herbal. If it smells musty or sour, your CBD oil has expired.
- Taste: If the oil tastes unusually bitter or sharp, don't consume expired CBD oil.
- Texture: Unusual thickness or separation means it's time for new oil.
- Expiration date: Always check - companies include this for good reason.
Can You Consume Expired CBD Oil Safely?
Good news: you can use expired CBD oil without harm, though it won't provide the full benefits. The CBD degrades over time, becoming less potent.
However, rancid carrier oil can upset your stomach. If CBD oil smells off, don't take CBD that's clearly spoiled. The quality of CBD diminishes significantly once oils have a shelf life past their prime.
How to Store Your CBD Oil for Maximum Shelf Life
To maximise the shelf life of your CBD:
- Keep your CBD oil away from light and heat. A cool, dark cupboard is perfect.
- Maintain consistent temperature: Below 21°C helps preserve the quality of the oil.
- Seal tightly: Limit oxygen exposure to help extend the life.
- Avoid contamination: Keep droppers clean to maintain good quality CBD oil.
When it comes to CBD storage, consistency is key. High-quality CBD deserves proper care.
What Happens When You Use Expired CBD Oil?
Using expired CBD oil isn't harmful, but CBD oil lasts depends on storage. Once CBD oil has expired, you're unlikely to feel the expected effects. The overall quality of the CBD diminishes significantly.
If your oil has passed its date and smells off, invest in fresh CBD oil. Low-quality CBD may degrade even faster than premium products.
How to Dispose of Expired CBD Oil
Don't pour expired CBD oils down drains. Mix with absorbent material, seal, and bin it properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does CBD oil last once opened?
CBD oil lasts 12-24 months typically, but oxygen exposure after opening can reduce this. Store properly to maintain CBD shelf life.
Can I still consume expired CBD oil?
You can consume expired CBD oil safely, but it may not work well. If it smells bad, don't use it.
Does high-quality CBD oil last longer?
Yes, high-quality CBD oil often has better carrier oils and processing, giving it a longer shelf life.
What affects the shelf life of CBD oil?
Light, heat, oxygen, and the quality of CBD oil all impact how long CBD oil lasts.
How should I store CBD oil?
Keep CBD oil in a cool, dark place. Proper storage helps maintain the quality of the CBD oil.
Do CBD gummies last longer than oils?
Yes, CBD gummies typically have a longer shelf life as they don't contain liquid carrier oils that can go rancid.
What's the typical shelf life of CBD products?
Most CBD oil products have a shelf life of 1-2 years when stored properly.
Not suitable for under 18s.
Sources
- Healthline – Does CBD oil expire?
- Neurogan – Does CBD oil expire? Shelf life explained
- Healthy Tokyo – How to store CBD oil?
