What is the shelf-life of CBD Products? How long does the potency really last?
Short answer: it depends.
Cannabidiol (CBD) itself generally has a shelf life of about 1-2 years before it expires. However, some CBD products (like cosmetics, edibles, topicals, etc.) contain additional ingredients in their formulations which may affect their lasting power.
Some signs that CBD oil has probably gone bad include:
- A funky or unpleasant smell
- A thick or murky appearance
- A rancid taste
- A lack of therapeutic effects
In terms of CBD oil alone, there are some steps you can take to help stretch the shelf life a little bit. To maximize freshness and potency, make sure you’re offering high-quality products from reputable brands, checking for safe, trusted ingredients and proper packaging, and storing your products away from heat and light.
When it comes to CBD-infused food, drinks, cosmetics, etc. the shelf life varies depending on several factors: the type of product, the contents of the product, and the manner in which it is stored. Your best bet is to always refer to the product packaging for expiration dates and storage tips.
For the sake of this article, let’s go over some of the most popular CBD products and how long they typically last:
Gummies
CBD Gummies typically contain ingredients like sugar, gelatin, sucralose, and of course, CBD. They have a pretty lengthy shelf life and are usually safe to eat for about 24 months. However, for the best taste and most optimal experience, you’ll probably want to use them within 9-12 months of opening.
Topicals
Luckily, most CBD creams and lotions tend to have a generous shelf life. If opened, they may be safe to use for approximately 1-2 years. If kept sealed and stored properly, their shelf life can extend up to 3 years. Of course, this can vary depending on what ingredients are used in the formulation, so always check the product labels for more details.
Cosmetics
When it comes to cosmetics, shelf life varies depending on the type of product. The label usually lists everything you need to know, but there are some general timelines. Face products, like primers or setting sprays, usually last about 24 months, while lip products and mascaras are usually safe to use for about a year.
Perfumes and Fragrances
Normally, fragrances can last up to 3-5 years if properly sealed and stored. However, the shelf life can vary when you throw an ingredient like CBD into the mix. Because CBD oil itself typically lasts 12-24 months, CBD-infused fragrances will perform most optimally for 1-2 years. After that, the potency of the CBD oil decreases drastically and the chemical bonds in the perfume could begin to change as a result of the expired CBD oil. As the fragrance begins to expire, the concentration of the scent will start to weaken and the color of the liquid may begin to change.
Capsules
As for CBD capsules, proper storage is essential in extending their shelf life. The last thing you want is for your CBD capsules to melt because you had them in a warm, muggy drawer or storage room. If stored correctly in a cool location away from sunlight, they can usually be preserved for about 12-24 months.
Tinctures
Again, when it comes to CBD tinctures, proper storage is key. Storing them in a cool, dark space will keep them fresh and extend their potency. Their general shelf life is 12-24 months, but that can vary depending on how well you take care of your product.
Vape Cartridges
Like most of the CBD products on this list, vape cartridges will expire after a period of time, but proper storage can help extend their shelf life. Factors like heat, light, oxygen, and time can contribute to speeding up their spoilage. If kept in a cool, dark place, they should last between 6 months to a year before they start to lose their potency.
Pet Products
There is a 6-month to a 24-month shelf-life for CBD for pets. This variance is attributable to a number of factors. The rate at which your pet consumes CBD is determined by the condition being treated. Always verify the expiration date on CBD purchased for your pet. It’s worth noting, that CBD products for pets are available in a variety of forms. As a result, the expiration date of the product will also be determined by the other substances utilized. For example, CBD dog treats may have a shorter shelf life than a CBD pet shampoo.
Quality and Care
It is important to keep in mind that these are general estimates. For more specific information regarding product expiration and how to properly store them, you should always refer to the manufacturer’s packaging and label.
One thing is for sure — no matter what kind of CBD product you are using, proper storage of CBD (in all its forms) is the primary contributing factor to extending its shelf life as much as possible. That along with ensuring you are purchasing high-quality CBD products from trusted suppliers with safe ingredients and proper packaging will guarantee you get the very best use out of your CBD products.
