Best Practices for Storing Cannabis Edibles Bought Online
Cannabis edibles are a popular and convenient way to consume cannabis, offering an alternative to smoking or vaping. If you've bought edibles online, ensuring they stay fresh and potent is crucial to maximizing their effectiveness. Proper storage can help you avoid degradation in taste, potency, and safety. Here are some best practices for storing cannabis edibles bought online.
- Check the Packaging Most edibles you purchase online will come in packaging designed to preserve freshness. Before storing, ensure the packaging is airtight and sealed properly. If the seal is broken or loose, transfer the edibles to a more secure container, like a glass jar with an airtight lid. This will help keep out moisture and air, both of which can degrade the quality of the edible.
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place Cannabis edibles are best stored in cool, dark areas such as a pantry or a cupboard. Exposure to heat and direct sunlight can break down the cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and cause the edibles to lose potency. Aim for a storage space with a consistent temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid placing them near windows or in areas where temperature fluctuates, like above the stove or near heaters.
- Refrigeration for Certain Edibles Some cannabis edibles, particularly those with dairy, like chocolates or infused butters, benefit from refrigeration. Cold storage will extend their shelf life and maintain flavor. However, make sure that the edibles are in an airtight container before refrigerating, as edibles can absorb odors from other foods. For long-term storage, freezing edibles can also be an option, particularly for baked goods. Just be mindful of thawing them slowly to preserve texture and flavor.
- Avoid Moisture and Humidity Moisture can cause mold growth, which is harmful to both the edibles and your health. Keep your cannabis treats away from humid environments, like the kitchen or bathroom. If you're worried about humidity affecting edibles like gummies or hard candies, consider adding a small food-grade desiccant packet in the storage container to absorb excess moisture.
- Label and Date Your Edibles When storing edibles, it's easy to forget when you bought them or how potent they are. Label each package with the date of purchase, the strain (if applicable), and the dosage. This practice ensures you always know what you’re consuming and how old it is. Cannabis edibles typically have a shelf life of 6 months to a year, but their potency may decrease over time. Consuming older edibles isn’t dangerous, but they may not deliver the intended effects.
- Keep Edibles Away from Children and Pets Always store cannabis edibles out of reach of children and pets. Even in states or countries where cannabis is legal, accidental ingestion by minors or animals can lead to serious health issues. Consider using childproof containers or a lockable storage box for extra safety.