CBD oil is made via a sophisticated extraction process from raw materials, usually employing vigorous quality controls. Once you purchase CBD oil, the next question is how to store it properly so that it won't lose potency.
Like all organic products, CBD oil has a shelf life and can degrade over time. However, if you know how to store it properly, you can increase its lifespan and preserve its natural essences and effectiveness.
Storing CBD Oil
Unless a pure Hemp oil, CBD oil is usually made by adding CBD (either isolate or full-spectrum Hemp oil) to a so-called carrier oil. Hemp or coconut oils can be used and the desired amount of CBD can be added for the perfect balance.
Three factors that affect the life of CBD oil are light, heat, and exposure to air. If you want to keep your oil products stable, air-tight bottles are recommended as well as storing the oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. The refrigerator is a suitable choice, but a dark cabinet in a climate-controlled environment is also fine.
Shelf life of CBD Oil
A packaged bottle of commercial CBD oil typically has a shelf life of 18 to 24 months, as long as the bottle remains unopened. Once you open the oil, if stored in optimal conditions, it will usually maintain its maximum effectiveness and ingredient profile for at least six months.
Shelf life also depends somewhat on the type of CBD extract used in the oil. CBD isolate can have an extended life compared to full-spectrum, since decarboxylation can play a role in changing the properties of a full-spectrum oil, reducing its effectiveness compared to a new (full-spectrum) oil.
CBD oils typically have an expiration date, so even if you store them under optimal conditions, they can still expire after this date. You may also notice a slight taste variation once the expiration date has passed, so it's best to not use CBD oils after their expiration date.
Can you freeze CBD Oil?
Sources vary on this point. Some say freezing can extend shelf life, but many agree that even though it can be done, freezing may affect the quality of the oil depending on the ingredients and processing method used to make the oil. Whether or not the oil is full-spectrum or has been combined with carrier oils can also affect to what extent freezing might be a good choice.
If you are using CBD oil frequently, you probably won't need to freeze it to prolong its shelf life. With freezing, the oil can get dense and if you want to use it, you may need to let it thaw before use. If you're planing to travel or if the expiration date on your current bottle will be reached before you can use all of it, then freezing might be an option.
How to check CBD Oil for rancidity
To check for the rancidity or decay of CBD or Hemp oil, you may notice some tell-tale signs just as you might with any organic product. The oil's color may change to become slightly darker, or you may notice that its regular taste is a bit off.
Rancidity can happen due to an exposure to heat, light, or air, or if the product is simply past its expiration date, so it's wise to always check the expiration date of any CBD oil and store it in as close to ideal conditions as possible.
Written by M. Arslan