Does Weed Go Bad? How to Store Cannabis

Does weed go bad?

Weed doesn’t expire, or go “bad”, but it does lose potency. Over time, the THC in weed breaks down into cannabinol (CBN), which is not psychoactive. While CBN is safe and may even have certain health benefits, aged weed will get you less high.

Old weed will also dry out, become more brittle, and change in aroma.

So how long does weed stay fresh and potent?

When weed is stored in a dry, airtight, and dark place (we’ll discuss this more later), it can last quite a while. According to a study done by the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, THC in weed degrades at the following rate:

  • 16 percent THC lost after 1 years
  • 26 percent THC lost after 2 years
  • 34 percent THC lost after 3 years
  • 41 percent THC lost after 4 years

Weed lasts quite a while when stored properly. However, if you plan to preserve your weed it's important to make sure you are keeping it in the right environment.

Can mold grow on weed?

Yes, mold can grow on weed if stored improperly. Although it is unlikely to cause major health problems, it can cause vomiting, coughing, nausea, or an upset stomach.

If your weed is old, or if you’re worried about how it has been stored, then it’s best to inspect your weed for signs of mold before consuming. The signs are often very subtle, but look for unusual signs of white powder, fuzz, or spots. Additionally, moldy weed may develop a stale smell like hay.

What are the best storage conditions for weed?

There are 4 major factors when considering weed storage: light, temperature, humidity, and oxygen.

  • Light: Weed should be stored in a dark place. UV exposure can cause weed to degrade and grow brittle. 
  • Temperature: Store your weed at temperatures between 40 and 77F. Too much heat can lead to mold, and cold temperatures can actually damage the precious trichomes which hold much of the THC and CBD in the flower.  
  • Humidity: It's best to store your weed at a relative humidity of 59-63 percent. This is the magic window which prevents mold growth and also doesn't dry out your weed. If you want to go the extra mile, you can buy small humidity packs to help control the moisture in your container. 
  • Oxygen: Oxygen dries out and degrades your weed over time. Use an airtight container suited for the amount of weed you want to store. Avoid using a container with lots of excess space as it will increase the oxygen in contact with the weed. 

Keeping Your Weed Fresh

To enjoy fresh weed with optimal potency, aroma, and flavor, proper storage is key. Here are some tips:

  • Use airtight containers to minimize air exposure.
  • Store in a cool, dark place to protect from light and heat.
  • Consider humidity control solutions to prevent mold growth.

By understanding how weed loses its qualities and taking steps to preserve its freshness, you can ensure a better, more consistent cannabis experience.

With some reasonable precautions taken, quality cannabis can retain its pleasant aroma and robust cannabinoids and terpenes profile to keep you lifted even when smoked many months after purchase. Properly cured and stored weed stays fresh and highly enjoyable long after it might otherwise expire or go bad.

Ultimately, weed should be stored in a cool, dark, and airtight container. When stored properly with optimal temperature and humidity levels, high quality cannabis flower and products can retain their potent levels of active cannabinoids and aromatic terpenes for an extended shelf life.

Exposing weed to air, heat, or light causes it to degrade faster, while proper storage in airtight box helps it stay fresh for the long term.

Inquiring about whether weed expire is a common concern among enthusiasts. While cannabis doesn't have a strict expiration date, its potency can diminish over time if not stored properly. Utilizing glass jars, especially mason jars, is a popular choice for preserving freshness. These airtight containers help maintain optimal humidity levels, preventing degradation. Additionally,  rolling tray can be used as convenient storage areas to keep your cannabis accessories organized. By employing suitable storage areas and containers, you can ensure your weed remains potent and enjoyable for longer periods.

If you don't have a solution yet, we highly recommend you check out Cubbi, which creates airtight, smell proof containers specifically designed for cannabis storage. 

 

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Always Fresh

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