Never before have there been so many options for THC or CBD edibles. We’ve come a long way since your grandparent’s “special brownies.” Which is no knock on grandpa’s brownies. This isn’t to say that a homemade TCH or CBD brownie wouldn’t be delicious. It would.

With so many choices, new questions arise. Is there an expiration date for edibles?

Like any food product, edibles can go bad. If your edible of choice comes with an expiration date you should pay attention to it. Condiments and energy drinks expire sooner than baked goods (i.e. brownies) and candies (gummies, lollipops, etc.) last the longest.

Goods manufactured in a large facility likely have preservatives and will last longer than those that are homemade. As with any food, if it smells like it’s gone bad, it probably has.

Signs That Edibles Have Gone Bad

• Discoloration
• Buildup of mold and mildew
• Loss or change in smell
• Condensation droplets in container
• Edibles feel rough, brittle, or dry

Storing edibles requires a retort pouch or possibly tin containers. It’s best to store edibles in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

If you want to store them in the freezer, it’s best to wrap them in plastic, then foil, then place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use them, allow the edible to defrost slowly to preserve the taste.

Gummy edibles are arguably the most popular edible option. Expired gummies don’t pose much of a food poisoning risk if eaten after the expiration date. But if you’re opting for homemade or small-batch manufacturers, the gelatin in those gummies can be susceptible to mold. It’s best to keep them in the refrigerator.

In addition to paying attention to the food expiration aspect, it’s good to be aware of the possibility for the potency to decrease. Nothing is worse than expecting a high but ending up sleepy.

Dried cannabis can remain viable for six months to a year. But it can lose potency over time.

Some older research shows the potency drops over time:

• 16% THC lost over 1 year
• 26% THC lost over 2 years
• 34% THC lost over 3 years
• 41% THC lost over 4 years

Finally:

• All food can go bad, pay attention to expiration dates
• Candy-based edibles last the longest
• Refrigerate or freeze edibles to keep them longer. Bonus: wrap in plastic, then foil, then an airtight container (such as airtight glass jars).
• Cannabis remains effective in edibles for about a year before potency decreases