Does CBD Oil Go Bad? A Comprehensive Guide to the Shelf Life of CBD!

CBD oil has become a staple in many wellness routines, but considering that it is a natural product, you might be asking yourself, ‘Does CBD oil go bad?’

Understanding how long CBD oil lasts and how to store it properly is essential for maintaining its potency and effectiveness.

In this guide, we’ll explore what CBD oil is, how quickly it degrades, and how to tell if it’s expired. We’ll also discuss the potential risks of using expired CBD oil, share practical tips to extend its shelf life, and provide advice on proper storage.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to keep your CBD oil fresh and effective for as long as possible.

What Is CBD Oil?

To answer the question of what is CBD, it’s important to understand where it comes from and how it’s made.

The hemp plant contains phytochemicals called cannabinoids. CBD is the primary among these cannabinoids. It can be extracted using various methods and then combined with a carrier oil such as coconut or hemp seed oil to create what is then known as CBD oil.

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate functions like mood, sleep, immune response, and inflammation, which form the basis for its potential benefits.

Available in various forms, such as tinctures, CBD capsules, and topical CBD cream, CBD oil has become a popular natural supplement for both humans and pets.

Does CBD Oil Go Bad?

Now that we have a basic understanding of what CBD oil is, it's natural to wonder, does CBD expire?

Like most natural products, CBD oil will expire eventually. Exposure to light, heat, air, and moisture can cause the oil to degrade more quickly, reducing its potency and effectiveness.

How Long Does CBD Oil Last?

We’ve answered the question, ‘Does CBD oil expire?’ However, how quickly does this happen?

When people choose a CBD product, they are often curious as to how quickly it will expire.

The rate at which CBD oil degrades depends on several factors, including the quality of the CBD extract, the quality of carrier oil, and how it’s stored.

The simple answer to the question, ‘How long does CBD oil stay good?’ is that, on average, CBD oil has a shelf life of 12 to 24 months if stored properly.

However, exposure to heat, light, air, and moisture can accelerate degradation.

So, how is CBD oil made and does this impact expiry times? Well, higher-quality CBD oils, especially those made from organically grown hemp and processed with care, tend to last longer.

Carrier oils, such as MCT oil or hemp seed oil, also influence shelf life, as some are more stable than others.

If CBD oil is stored improperly, such as in a warm, sunny spot or with the cap left open, it may degrade more quickly, losing potency and effectiveness in a matter of months.

How to Tell if CBD Oil Is Expired

Determining whether your CBD oil has gone bad is simple if you know what to look for. Start by checking the smell; fresh CBD oil typically has an earthy or nutty aroma, but if it smells sour, rancid, or off, it may have spoiled.

A change in appearance is a key indicator; if the oil becomes cloudy, thickens unnaturally, or separates in a way that doesn’t mix back together, it’s likely no longer fresh.

Pay attention to the taste as well. While CBD oil usually has a mild or natural flavor, a bitter or sour taste suggests it’s past its prime.

If you notice any of these changes, it’s best to replace the product to ensure you’re getting the full benefits and using a safe, high-quality oil.

The Impact of Using Expired CBD Oil

You might be wondering: ‘Can expired CBD oil hurt you?’. The short answer is ‘no’.

Expired CBD oil does not pose significant harm, but it can lead to reduced effectiveness and diminished therapeutic benefits.

Over time, the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other active compounds in CBD oil break down, causing the oil to lose its potency.

In some cases, expired CBD oil might have an unpleasant smell or taste, making it less enjoyable to use.

While it’s unlikely to cause toxicity or adverse reactions, it’s always best to use fresh, properly stored CBD oil to ensure you’re receiving the full therapeutic potential of the product.

If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as changes in color, consistency, or odor, it’s wise to replace the oil for the best results.

Tips on Increasing the Shelf-Life of Your CBD Oil

CBD oil is a natural product with a limited shelf life, but with the right care, you can extend its freshness and potency.

Proper storage and handling play a crucial role in preserving the quality of your oil, ensuring it stays effective for as long as possible.

In this guide, we’ll share simple yet effective tips to help you get the most out of your CBD oil and maintain its therapeutic benefits over time.

How to Store Your CBD Oil

To maximize the CBD oil's shelf life and keep it potent for as long as possible, follow these simple storage tips:

• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep your CBD oil away from heat, light, and humidity. A cool, dark cupboard or drawer is ideal, as UV light and warmth can degrade the oil and reduce its effectiveness over time. In more tropical climates, keeping your CBD oil in the fridge is a good idea.
• Seal It Tightly: Always ensure the bottle is tightly sealed after use to prevent air exposure, which can cause oxidation and deterioration of the oil’s quality.
• Avoid Storing CBD Oil in the Bathroom: While it might seem convenient, bathrooms tend to have fluctuating temperatures and humidity, both of which can negatively affect the shelf life of CBD oil.
• Use a Dark Glass Bottle: If possible, choose CBD oil that comes in a dark glass bottle (like amber or cobalt blue). Dark glass helps protect the oil from light, preserving its potency longer.
• Keep Away from Strong Smells: CBD oil can absorb strong odors from its environment, so store it away from scented products or food to maintain its quality.

FAQ

Does CBD oil have to be refrigerated?

CBD oil does not necessarily have to be refrigerated, but proper storage is essential to preserve its quality and potency.

Most CBD oils can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place, such as a cabinet or pantry, without any issues.

However, refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of CBD oil, especially if you live in a warm or humid climate where heat and moisture could accelerate degradation.

Does CBD oil deteriorate over time?

Yes, CBD oil does deteriorate over time. Like most natural products, it has a shelf life, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months if stored properly.

Over time, exposure to light, heat, air, and moisture can cause the cannabinoids and other compounds in the oil to break down, leading to reduced potency and effectiveness.

How do you store CBD oil long-term?

General good practice, such as keeping your CBD oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, is suggested to ensure that you extract the maximum shelf life from your product.

For even longer storage periods, you might consider freezing your CBD oil. Freezing might make the oil cloudy, but simply allow the oil to return to room temperature to correct this.

How long can CBD oil be kept?

CBD oil can typically be kept for 12 to 24 months if stored properly. Its shelf life depends on factors such as the quality of the oil, the extraction method, the type of carrier oil used, and how it is stored.

High-quality CBD oils made with organic ingredients and packaged in dark glass bottles tend to last longer.

Does hemp oil go rancid?

Yes, hemp oil can go rancid over time, especially if it is not stored properly. As a plant-based oil, hemp oil contains unsaturated fatty acids, which are prone to oxidation when exposed to light, heat, and air.

This process causes the oil to degrade, resulting in a rancid smell, bitter taste, and changes in texture or color.

What happens if you consume expired CBD oil?

Taking expired CBD oil is unlikely to cause harm, but it may not deliver the desired benefits.

Over time, CBD oil loses potency as the cannabinoids and other active compounds degrade, meaning the product may be less effective in addressing issues like anxiety, pain, or inflammation.

Expired CBD oil may also develop changes in taste, smell, and texture.

Does CBD oil go bad after opening?

Yes, CBD oil can go bad after opening, but proper storage can help maintain its freshness and effectiveness.

What color should CBD oil be?

The color of CBD oil can vary depending on factors such as the extraction method, carrier oil, and whether the oil is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate-based.

Generally, the color ranges from golden or light amber to dark brown or even clear for some CBD isolates. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: Typically golden to dark brown, as it contains a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, which contribute to its darker hue.
2. Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Usually lighter in color, ranging from pale gold to light amber, because it undergoes additional filtration to remove THC.
3. CBD Isolate Oil: Often clear or very light in color since it contains only pure CBD mixed with a carrier oil, without additional plant compounds.

The carrier oil (such as hemp seed oil, MCT oil, or olive oil) can also affect the color. For instance, hemp seed oil-based CBD might appear greenish, while MCT oil-based CBD is usually lighter.

Why does CBD oil turn dark?

CBD oil turns dark due to oxidation, exposure to light, or the extraction method. Full-spectrum oils tend to be darker, while oils exposed to air or light degrade over time, losing potency.

Can you use expired CBD cream?

Using expired CBD cream is generally safe, but it may not be as effective.

As time goes on, the active ingredients, including CBD, lose potency, meaning the cream might not deliver the intended therapeutic benefits.

If the cream has an unusual odor, changed texture, or separated, it's a sign it has likely degraded and should be discarded.

How long does CBD oil last unopened?

Unopened CBD oil typically lasts 12 to 24 months from the manufacturing date, depending on the quality of the product and how it's stored.

Can you use out-of-date CBD?

Using out-of-date CBD is generally safe, but its effectiveness may be reduced. Eventually, the cannabinoids and other active compounds degrade, meaning the product may not deliver the intended therapeutic benefits.

What happens when CBD edibles expire?

When CBD edibles expire, they may lose their potency, meaning the CBD may not have the same therapeutic effects as when it was fresh.

Over time, the cannabinoids degrade, causing the edibles to become less effective. Additionally, expired CBD edibles may undergo changes in taste, texture, and appearance.

How long does it take for cannabis oil to go bad?

Cannabis oil typically lasts 12 to 24 months if stored properly. Over time, exposure to light, heat, and air can cause the oil to degrade, reducing its potency and effectiveness.

Factors like the type of cannabis oil (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate) and the carrier oil used can also impact its shelf life.

Does a CBD cartridge expire?

Yes, CBD cartridges can expire. Typically, they last 1 to 2 years from the manufacturing date, depending on factors like the quality of the product, storage conditions, and whether the cartridge is sealed.

As time goes on, the CBD may lose potency, and the oil inside may degrade, affecting both the taste and effectiveness.

Why Choose CBDPure for Your CBD Oil?

As we've mentioned, several factors contribute to the shelf life of a CBD product, with the quality of the CBD oil, the choice of carrier oil, and the packaging being essential.

Fortunately, when it comes to these factors, CBDpure has all the bases covered. You can choose a CBD product that is ideally suited to your needs from the wide range available.

CBDpure’s full-spectrum CBD oil is crafted from premium hemp grown on a trusted family farm in Washington, free from pesticides for your peace of mind.

We uphold the highest standards by manufacturing all our products in FDA-registered, pharmaceutical-grade facilities that comply with cGMP regulations.

To ensure optimal freshness and effectiveness, we blend our oil with high-quality hemp seed oil and package it in dark glass to protect it from the elements and preserve its potency. No stone is left unturned in providing you with the best CBD oil.

Whether you want quality CBD oil for yourself or you’re looking for pet CBD oil for dogs and cats, CBDPure has you covered!

Experience longevity with CBDpure

So, does CBD oil go bad?

Yes, it does. However, at CBDpure, we meticulously craft our CBD products to ensure they maintain their quality and potency, delivering lasting benefits you can count on.

Your health deserves the very best, and we’re here to be your trusted partner on the path to wellness and vitality. Choose CBDpure today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier future.