Cannabis edibles have been one of the most popular consumption methods for decades because they deliver full-body effects that last a long time. However, these treats aren’t exactly what you want around lying around the house. Therefore, it’s essential to be thoughtful and well-informed before using cannabis edibles in your home. Here’s everything you need to know about storing cannabis edibles to keep your treats fresh and safe.
Factors that affect cannabis edibles
Before purchasing your edibles online, you must understand how different storage methods affect your product. Various factors, such as light, heat, moisture, and oxygen, can all cause your edibles to degrade. Therefore, it’s essential to take the time to learn about the best ways to store your edibles.
Light is one of the biggest enemies of cannabis edibles. Too much light can cause the THC to degrade, resulting in weaker effects. In addition, light can cause your edibles to lose their potency and flavour. Heat can also have a devastating effect on your edibles. The degradation of THC and other cannabinoids causes these treats to lose their potency, flavour or even both. The best way around this problem? Store them in a cool, dark place where they’ll stay fresh for longer.
Moisture is another enemy of cannabis edibles. When edibles are exposed to excessive moisture, they can become mouldy and dangerous to consume. Therefore, if you live in a humid climate, it’s essential to take extra care when storing your edibles. An excellent method to protect them from moisture is to keep them in airtight containers.
When it comes to cannabis edibles, oxygen is more than just a problem—it can be downright dangerous. When edibles are exposed to too much oxygen, they can become dry, crumbly and ultimately lose their potency. In some cases, this can result in ineffective edibles that can be dangerous to consume. If you’re unsure whether your edibles are safe to eat, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and throw them away.
Different storage materials for cannabis edibles
When storing your cannabis edibles, the method you choose will depend on a host of factors. But there are some materials that work best and preserve flavour while maintaining efficacy, potency, and overall quality.
Tightly sealed containers made of glass, metal, or ceramic are ideal for storing cannabis edibles. These materials protect your edibles from light, heat, and oxygen while keeping them fresh and potent. If you’re looking for an airtight container, a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid is a great storage option.
A good solution for proper and safe storage of edibles is often a paper bag. This material provides just the right amount of protection from the elements. Paper bags also allow air circulation, preventing the edibles from getting too moist or stale. Edibles can stay fresh for weeks or even months when stored correctly in a paper bag.
Cling wrap is one storage solution that can work well for cannabis edibles. However, it’s essential to ensure that the edibles are completely cooled before wrapping them, as heat can cause the wrap to melt and stick to the food.
Many producers opt to store their edibles in wax or parchment paper. Unlike other materials, wax and parchment paper are non-porous, which means they won’t absorb moisture or allow air to pass through. This helps to keep edibles fresh by preventing spoilage. In addition, wax and parchment paper are semi-permeable, allowing manufacturers to control the amount of oxygen that comes in contact with the product. This is important because too much oxygen can cause edibles to lose their potency over time.
The best method for long-term storage
The best way to store your cannabis edibles will depend on the product type and how long you plan to store them. For example, if you have a batch of cookies that you want to keep fresh for a few weeks, storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place is your best bet. On the other hand, freezing them is an excellent option if you want to keep edibles longer.
Freezing is an excellent place to store cannabis-infused edibles. Keeping them at a low temperature can extend their shelf life and prevent the degradation of THC and CBD. Additionally, the cold temperature will help prevent mould or bacteria formation. When stored properly in the freezer, cannabis-infused edibles can last several months. However, it is vital to ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. For best results, wrap each edible individually in plastic wrap or aluminium foil before placing it in a sealable container or bag.
Final thoughts
Cannabis edibles are a delicious and convenient way to consume cannabis, but they must be appropriately stored to maintain their freshness. Following these simple storage guidelines ensures that your edibles remain fresh and potent for months.