The more we learn about Delta 8, the more impressed we become with this extraordinary cannabinoid. Interestingly enough, we’re realizing that Delta 8 may have a uniquely long shelf life compared to similar cannabinoids such as CBD and Delta 9. And if you give your Delta 8 THC a little extra TLC by storing it properly, every dollar spent can be stretched over a long period of time!
So, without further ado, here are some expert tips from the team at Moonwlkr for storing your Delta 8 products for the long- and short-term.
Do Delta 8 Gummies Expire?
Since Delta 8 is a relatively new product, we can’t say for certain what the exact shelf life is. But here’s what we do know.
Because CBD has been around for so long, we know that it’s shelf life is between 1-2 years. After that point, it’s chemical structure begins to break down causing it to lose its potency. Always check your product label for its expiration date. If you’re unsure because your product doesn’t list an expiration date, be sure to reach out to your product’s customer service team.
We also know that Delta 8 THC is technically a degraded form of Delta 9 THC. When you leave Delta 9 out for a long period of time, it goes through a process of oxidation and can turn into Delta 8 as a result. This process also explains why Delta 8 is less potent than Delta 9!
Since Delta 8 is already the result of degradation, its chemical structure is more stable than our other cannabinoids like CBD and Delta 9.
Because of this, we can infer that Delta 8 gummies may have a surprisingly long shelf life of up to 1.5 – 2 years if they’re properly stored.
But for optimal flavor and effects, we recommend you put your gummies to use within the first 6-9 months.
How to Store Delta 8 edibles for longer shelf life
Storing your Delta 8 gummies has a lot to do with maximizing the potency, taste, and effectiveness of the product. (Try these 7 activities to enhance the sensory effects of Delta 8) Here’s our list of tips and tricks to extend the shelf life of your Delta 8 gummies for as long as possible:
1. Keep Products in a Sealed Container
A process that we mentioned earlier called “oxidation” is what causes cannabinoids to break down and degrade. The less oxygen and heat you allow to penetrate the product, the longer it will last. The more airtight the better!
2. Store in a Cool, Dark Place
When you’re not using your Delta 8 gummies, store them in your sealed container in a cool place inside your home without any bright light — like a cabinet or drawer. Or even better… The fridge!
3. Avoid Moist or Humid Environments
Exposure to humidity or moisture is another big factor that can negatively affect shelf life. Avoid places like your car, bathroom, or kitchen while you’re cooking.
What happens if I eat an expired Delta 8 gummy?
Like most ingestible products, Delta 8 will eventually expire. But the stakes aren’t as high as something like, let’s say, sour milk. Expired Delta 8 isn’t toxic or harmful, it just won’t produce any effects after it’s truly maxed out its shelf life and has lost all potency.
How to Store Your Delta 8 Vape Carts
There’s nothing worse than going to take a hit of your Delta 8 vape and finding that it’s clogged. Storing your D8 Vape Cart properly will not only help to prolong its shelf life and preserve its effects, but it can help prevent clogging as well.
If you can, try to store your vape cart vertically after using it. Read more tips on preventing clogs here.
How long are Delta 8 Vape Carts good for?
The shelf life of Delta 8 differs depending on what form the product is in — could be gummies, tinctures, distillates, or flower. When it comes to Delta 8 vapes, there’s good news! High-concentration extracts like vapes have much less storage requirements.
These high-concentration products are not as prone to oxidation as edibles or flower, so they tend to degrade very slowly.
However, if you store your vapes in a cool, dark place while they’re not in use, they will better retain their flavor and effectiveness for up to 24 months.
What happens if I smoke an expired D8 vape?
A quality Delta 8 vape cart that has expired won’t hurt you, it just won’t produce any effects… And might taste a little funky.
Should I store Delta 8 in the fridge?
All in all, there are 3 main things to remember when storing any type of Delta 8 product: keep them cool, dark, and sealed. What better place than the refrigerator?
Keeping your gummies in the fridge is one of the best ways to preserve freshness and potency. Whether it’s a gummy, vape, or tincture, virtually all Delta 8 products stored in the fridge will experience an extended shelf life.
Should I store Delta 8 in the freezer?
Storing Delta 8 in the freezer — specifically edibles — might be the #1 way to ensure long term freshness. If you’ve racked up a lot of excess gummies that need to be stored, the freezer should be your go-to spot. The only downside here is the thawing process, which is undoubtedly a bit of a pain.
That’s why we recommend the fridge for short term storage, and the freezer as a long term solution when you know you won’t be needing your extra gummies any time soon.
We hope this helps to answer some of your D8 storage questions. But as always, our team is here to help if you have questions about your Moonwlkr Delta 8 products.
