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High-quality CBD oil is worth the investment, but it’s incredibly essential to store these items correctly, so it retains its potency and doesn’t turn rancid. As with any natural product consumed, CBD and other cannabinoids can degrade over time and lose effectiveness. Many factors, such as light, heat, and air, can alter cannabis compounds’ consistency, causing them to break down. There are many steps CBD users can take to prolong the life and potency of CBD oil products from the type of bottle it is stored in to the amount of light or heat it is exposed to.
Avoid Direct Light
CBD manufacturers must package CBD oils and other CBD products in packaging that is designed to provide protection from light damage. Many CBD companies utilize amber glass bottles, as this material offers outstanding UV protection. Even though these items are already in protective packaging, CBD users are encouraged to continue taking steps to prevent exposure to any direct light. Any exposure to direct light causes CBD oil to degrade and lose potency, meaning the product must be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place to allow for maximum freshness. CBD users should refrain from storing CBD oils on counters near windows that receive sunlight.
Heat and Air Exposure
Any exposure to heat can quickly degrade your CBD oils, making it vital to store any products away from extreme heat.
• Do not store in cupboards near appliances that give off heat
• Do not expose to direct sunlight
• Do not store near the stove, range, or oven
• Do not store near a sunny window
• Do not leave inside a car
Like direct light and heat, exposure to air can also cause your CBD to degrade, thus reducing its effectiveness during use. Oxygen can hinder the chemical balance of CBD oil, which is a process called oxidative stress. Due to the risk of this occurring, many CBD manufacturers account for potential exposure to heat and air when extracting and bottling CBD products. Many products are packaged in airtight bottles or oral applicators to further prevent air exposure.
Responsible Storage Recommendations
While it may seem like there are a lot of guidelines for storing CBD products correctly, the simplified answer is to continually manage the environment to limit air, heat, and light exposure. Many CBD oils are diluted with a carrier oil like hemp seed or MCT coconut oil, meaning CBD users can treat storage like they would an olive oil or coconut oil.
- Keep the bottle upright and firmly sealed
- Prevent the contents from becoming contaminated
- Store it in a moderate temperature area
- Limit exposure to extreme heat, cold, light, or moisture
Shelf Life
There are many different CBD oil options available on the market today, meaning shelf life can vary depending on the exact type of CBD oil and product. Quality, packaging, and storage are all factors that alter the period in which your CBD products stay fresh. If unopened and correctly stored, it should remain fresh for 18 to 24 months. If opened and correctly stored, it will maintain its cannabinoid concentration and overall profile for 6 to 12 months depending on the product. Products that are considered raw or undergo minimal heating and processing during manufacturing will likely have a shorter shelf life because of natural changes in both the CBD and carrier oils.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’ve just started exploring CBD products or have already found relief through its therapeutic benefits, proper storage for CBD oil is vital to its overall quality and your investment. If CBD products aren’t stored correctly, they will lose potency and likely spoil earlier than the allotted expiration date. As with any natural or organic product, CBD degrades over time and loses its effectiveness. It’s essential that CBD users are aware of the factors that can speed up this process, such as light, heat, or air, and become familiar with general preventative measures to counter these interactions. Change the way you store your CBD oils and get the most out of your investment today.