Did you know that storing your cannabis gummies can not only make them last longer but also enhance the flavor? When you keep your gummies correctly, this means you can get the most out of the work you have put into making them.
However, you need to beware that there are laws and regulations around storing cannabis edibles in some states and countries. Therefore, you must prevent yourself from getting into unnecessary trouble.
What are cannabis edibles?
Cannabis edibles are becoming increasingly popular because they are a discrete and straightforward way of consuming cannabis. Edibles are products that contain cannabis or compounds extracted from it, such as CBD or THC. You may have already heard of cannabis edibles like the products listed below:
- Brownies, cookies, or other baked goods
- Confectionery (cannabis gummies)
- Chocolate
- Drinks
- Supplements
Making your own cannabis gummies is increasing in popularity because the amount of CBD and THC being added to them is easy to alter. For example, some people decide they only want CBD and no THC. Or, they might want to try both at different ratios. This means you can control and regulate the amount and type of cannabis you would like to add to your gummies.
There is a lot of research going into the two cannabis compounds, CBD and THC. However, scientists have discovered over 400 different compounds in the cannabis plant. There might be more therapeutic compounds from the cannabis plant that become readily available in the future, but for now, CBD and THC remain the two primary compounds of interest.
CBD
Cannabidiol, often shortened to CBD, is currently being researched for its increasing therapeutic benefits (1). Many people refer to CBD as the compound in cannabis that does not make people high, and this is true. CBD is currently best for treating:
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Convulsions
- Muscle tension
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress
- Vomiting and nausea
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol, often shortened to THC, is also being researched extensively. Unlike CBD, THC can make people high. However, this has not stopped scientists from exploring the therapeutic potential of this compound. Currently, THC is said to be best for:
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Muscle tension
- Vomiting and nausea
- Increasing appetite
Before you make your cannabis gummies, you might not have realized the importance of storing your gummies correctly. However, since you are making these delicious edibles, you will want to ensure that they are stored properly.
How long do edibles last?
When determining how long edibles last, you need to consider these key points:
- How long will the main ingredients, CBD or THC last?
- How long will the flavor last?
- When does this product go bad?
- Is there an expiration date that can be used as a guide?
Firstly, you do not need to worry about the food ingredients going bad because the ingredient we use in our kits do not spoil. That said, the cannabis that you choose to use can become less effective over time – usually about 12 months (2). If you are adding CBD or THC oil to your gummies, then you need to keep in mind how old this component is when you add it.
Secondly, how you store your gummies will determine how long the flavor lasts. For instance, the flavor will last longer if you keep your cannabis gummies in an airtight container or jar.
There is no exact expiration date on the gummies after they are made. It is more likely that you will see your gummies go hard, dry and lose their flavor than grow mold but it can happen. If it’s been a while, make sure to check them. Usually gummies will last several weeks in the fridge, several months in the freezer and several days on the counter.
Overall, understanding how long your cannabis gummies will last is essential for knowing how long you should store them. You should also be aware that they can expire more quickly if you store them incorrectly.
How to store cannabis gummies to make them last longer
Storing your cannabis gummies in an airtight container or jar will certainly make them last longer. You should also keep them in a cool and dark area.
Laws and regulations around storing cannabis gummies
Some states and countries have laws and regulations around storing edible cannabis (3). Because of this, it is in your best interests to make sure they are stored correctly so that you do not get into unnecessary trouble.
Because laws and regulations can vary between places, you will need to look up which ones are applicable in your area.
Places with these regulations predominantly say that edibles must be stored in a child-proof container, which are easily available at head shops or on amazon. Labels might also be enforced so that someone does not mistake your edibles for a non-cannabis product.
Even if your area does not enforce any of these guidelines, it might be best to use them anyway as a safety precaution. If you live with children, you should store your cannabis gummies in a child-proof container, well out of their reach. Since cannabis gummies look like any other sweet, a child would be tempted to eat some.
5 places you should avoid storing your cannabis gummies
- Do not leave them in direct sunlight, as they will spoil faster and might melt.
- Do not leave them somewhere hot, like in front of a heater or fireplace as this will also make them spoil faster or melt.
- Do not leave them in your car which can also get hot. Additionally, it might not be wise to have this product in the car in the first place as someone else may find it.
- Do not leave them in an area accessible to children or other people who might mistake your edibles for a non-cannabis product.
- Do not leave them in an area accessible to pets. THC is very bad for pets so keep them stored properly.
Why is it important to store your cannabis gummies safely?
Storing your cannabis gummies in a safe place can prevent you from getting in trouble, and keep children and pets safe.
Should you store your gummies in a secret place?
If you think this is necessary, you can do so for peace of mind, but ensure that you remember where you have stored your gummies to avoid losing them! For example, you could hide them in your bedroom or a locked cabinet.
Essentially, any place that others do not have access to is good. However, do not hide your edibles in an area that other people can access easily.
Summary
You should store your cannabis gummies in an airtight container or jar and keep them in a cool, dark place. If required, ensure that your edibles are kept away from children in a child-proof container, and are clearly labeled.
Also, be cautious of what might happen if another adult comes across your gummies. You may wish to keep them concealed, but do not forget where you have placed them.