If you’re a user of CBD oil you probably associate that little bottle with good health. But did you realize that it can go bad? It’s true; oil can go rancid and natural compounds can break down. Like just about any product you ingest, CBD has an expiration date. And like many of those expiration dates, what that actually means for your product is a little complicated.
WHAT DETERMINES THE EXPIRATION DATE?
A few factors decide how long CBD is considered usable. The extraction method is one important consideration because CO2 extraction is more gentle on the plant compounds. Other methods, such as those that use solvents, can damage endocannabinoids. CO2 extraction produces an extract that is more pure and stable. Any other ingredients added to the CBD also affect its shelf life. Carrier oils and flavors often are only considered good for a year or so. If any of the parts of the mixture are past their expiration date the entire product is considered expired. Finally, CBD is only considered good for consumption for a certain amount of time after extraction. This simply sets a limit for how long the manufacturer can confidently say that it is still potent.
IS EXPIRED CBD STILL EFFECTIVE?
As time passes the beneficial cannabinoids are going to be less and less active. The day after its expiration date is not going to render your CBD useless. But the older it becomes, the less powerful it will be. The difference may not be noticeable at first, but eventually it will not give you the results you noticed at first.
Is it Dangerous to Consume?
If the CBD is in a product that can actually spoil, such as a drink or edible, then we can’t recommend using it past its expiration date. The CBD itself won’t make you sick, but spoiled food can. A CBD extract is usually safe to use, although if the carrier oil goes rancid it won’t be a pleasant experience. Check your product for cloudiness or separation. If you see these changes it’s probably best to discard the product.
HOW CAN I KEEP MY CBD OIL FRESH?
To protect the beneficial compounds in your product, keep it away from heat, light, and humidity. Store your CBD oil in a cool cupboard or pantry, and keep it in its original packaging. The bottles are designed to keep out damaging light. CBD is a powerful substance, but it’s also a natural compound that should be treated gently. Take care of it and it will take care of you.
Source https://www.cbdtowellness.com/