Do You Need To Refrigerate CBD Oil?

There are varying opinions on how to store CBD oil, which leaves many people questioning whether or not it needs to be refrigerated. While it is not uncommon to find CBD oil sold without refrigeration, some argue that refrigeration is necessary to maintain its effectiveness. Read on to find out whether you need to refrigerate CBD oil, and provide tips for properly storing it to prolong its shelf life.

Refrigerating CBD Oil

If you purchase CBD oil in large quantities, it is recommended that you refrigerate it to prolong its shelf life. However, if you only have a single bottle and intend to use it immediately, storing it in a cool and dark area, such as a medicine cabinet, is acceptable. Refrigeration may also be beneficial if you live in a hot or humid area since CBD oil lacks preservatives and must be kept in a cold, dry place to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

Freezing CBD Oil

Refrigerating CBD oil can help extend its shelf life, but freezing it is not recommended. The extremely cold temperature can cause the oil's consistency to change, making it thick and difficult to draw from the container. Freezing can also cause the oil to crystallize and become cloudy, though this does not affect its quality. If you accidentally freeze your CBD oil, don't worry, you can still save it by letting it sit at room temperature or running the container under warm water to melt the oil.

Shelf Life of CBD Oil

CBD oil can generally last for one to two years when unopened, but there are various factors that can impact its shelf life. These factors include the quality of the ingredients used, the extraction process used, and the storage conditions. The quality of the plant's growing conditions and other ingredients used in the product can impact its quality. The ingredients used in the oil also have their own shelf life, which can impact the overall longevity of the product. The use of the carbon dioxide extraction method can help maximize cannabinoid levels and stabilize the compounds. Additionally, storing the oil in dark, airtight glass containers can help protect it from sunlight and air exposure, thus extending its shelf life.

CBD oil tinctures can have a shelf life of up to six months once opened, as long as proper storage methods are followed after opening. Like with other products, proper storage can extend the longevity of the oil. Cold temperatures can be beneficial in preserving the oil's cannabinoid concentration and overall characteristics.

How to Know if the CBD Oil is Still Safe?

The expiration date on a CBD oil bottle can help indicate if the product is still usable, but sometimes labels can fall off or become unreadable. In such cases, you can use your senses to determine if the oil is still safe to use. The color of the oil can give you a clue, with darker oil indicating that it may be less effective. If you notice a change in color, it's best to consume the oil as soon as possible. The smell of the oil is also an important factor, as a funky or unusual odor could indicate that the oil has gone bad. Fresh CBD oil should smell earthy and taste nutty or earthy. If the oil tastes rancid or unpleasant, it may be expired or spoiled.