Ways to Store CBD Gummies to Make Them Last Longer
CBD gummies are like non-CBD gummies. They can get hard if not properly stored because they contain sugar, water, gelatin, or pectin.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read):
If stored in the fridge, CBD gummies usually have a shelf life of at least six and possibly nine months once the product bag is opened, as long as it is properly resealed. If the bag of gummies is not opened and is properly stored, the shelf life could be as long as 12 months or longer. The CBD manufacturer stamps an expiration date on the product bag. You can use this as a guide.
If you don’t eat gummies often, buy a smaller amount so they don’t go bad before you finish them.
Table of Contents
The confection loses moisture when left exposed to the air due to evaporation. Research has found water content is an important characteristic that determines the gummy texture, and shelf life is determined by the interaction of air and candy ingredients and the interaction of the candy’s ingredients in the gummy. The bottom line is that CBD gummies’ shelf life can be extended through proper storage.
Do You Need to Store Your Gummies Properly?
Knowing how to store gummies is important to extending their shelf life. CBD gummies are essentially made with sugar, water, gelatin or pectin, flavorings, and CBD. Other ingredients may be present, but these are the essential ones.
Gelatin is a protein obtained from animal bones and connective tissue collagen. The protein material sets at cool temperatures and needs refrigeration to maintain its gel state.
Vegan CBD gummies are made with pectin, a water-soluble fiber obtained from fruit. To gel, pectin needs other ingredients that attract water, like sugar and an acid source.
Gummies must be appropriately stored because water evaporates in either a CBD gummy. Gummies made with gelatin or pectin contain water. If you store them where air can reach them, the water evaporates and the gummies get hard. However, many factors influence the rate of evaporation.
Things to Consider When Storing Your CBD Gummies
CBD edibles are one of the most popular ways to consume CBD, and gummies are one of the fastest-growing market segments. It is not surprising, since they are convenient, portable and come in a variety of flavors. Since you will buy a package of gummies and will not eat them all at once, you must know how to preserve edibles made with gelatin or pectin. The goal is to prevent gummy dehydration and contamination.
There are several things to consider when storing your CBD gummies.
1. Humidity
Store your CBD gummies in a place that has low humidity. Scientifically speaking, higher humidity means more water is in the air, so less evaporation occurs.
2. Moisture
Moisture promotes the growth of mold, mildew, bacteria and other contaminants. Too much humidity can quickly spoil your CBD gummies.
3. Sunlight and light
Direct sunlight speeds up the evaporation process by heating the CBD gummies. It also promotes mold and other contaminant growth. This is also true for direct lighting which can promote excessive product heating.
4. Temperature
Extreme temperatures can lead to physical destabilization of the ingredients, which leads to decay. The same thing is true for extreme temperature fluctuations.
Way to Store CBD Gummies
By now, you may be wondering how to store gummies. There are two options outside of keeping CBD gummies fresh.
First, if you want your gummies to remain fresh as long as possible, you should place them in a sealed bag or jar before storing them. The product may come in a resealable bag. If you keep your gummies in the original packaging, it is important to reseal the package each time you remove a gummy.
1. Refrigerator
The best place to store CBD gummies is the refrigerator because it has a controlled environment. The refrigerator is not humid, has low moisture, is dark, and has a cool temperature. It is better not to store them on the refrigerator door because the gummies will be exposed to frequent temperature changes.
2. Pantry or cupboard
You can also store CBD gummies in a pantry or cupboard as long as the conditions for ideal storage of CBD gummies are met. The pantry or cupboard should be dry, dark, and have a calm and stable temperature.
Remember that ants love anything made with sugar. When storing a gummy, keep in mind that ants are pests. By storing the CBD gummies in the refrigerator, you can stop worrying about attracting ants or other insects.
What Happens If You Eat Expired Edibles or Gummies?
Over time, expired CBD gummies lose quality, and in some cases, they might even make you feel sick.
1. Weaker Effects
CBD and other active ingredients break down over time, meaning the gummies may not work as well. If you take them for relaxation, sleep, or wellness, don’t be surprised if you don’t feel the same effects as before.
2. Changes in Taste and Texture
Old gummies can become hard, sticky, or stale. They might also taste weird or bitter. If your gummies don’t feel or taste right, it’s better to toss them out.
3. Stomach Problems
Eating old gummies can upset your stomach, especially if stored improperly. Some people might experience:
- Mild nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
If your stomach is sensitive, it’s best not to risk it.
4. Risk of Spoilage and Mold
If gummies are stored in a warm place, they can grow mold or develop bacteria. This could cause food poisoning symptoms like:
- Vomiting
- Severe stomach pain
- Fever
If you see mold, smell something strange, or notice an odd taste, DO NOT eat them—throw them away.
FAQs
How Long Can You Store Gummies?
The storage time for gummies depends on how they are stored and the ingredients. How long do gummies last in the fridge? If stored in the fridge, they usually have a shelf life of at least six and possibly nine months once the product bag is opened, as long as you properly reseal it.
Another point to keep in mind is that CBD potency will begin to decline at different rates in products, too. Potency strength could begin declining after six months. To ensure you are getting full CBD potency, it is recommended that you consume all your gummies within six months of opening the bag.
If the bag of gummies is not opened and is properly stored, the shelf life could be as long as 12 months or longer. The CBD manufacturer stamps an expiration date on the product bag. You can use this as a guide.
Can You Put Gummies in the Freezer?
You can freeze gummies with one caveat. Please place them in a proper freezer bag or an airtight container. Thaw the gummies slowly to preserve the ingredient balance, though some people eat them while they are still partially frozen. Frozen CBD gummies will maintain their quality for up to a year (12 months). Freezing gummies is a good idea if you know you will not be consuming them for a while or want to keep extra gummies on hand.
Can CBD Gummies Lose Flavor?
CBD gummies can lose flavor, typically after expiration or earlier if not properly stored. In some cases, the gummy may taste rancid if the decaying process is advanced. A lot depends on the flavoring in the product. If the fruit flavor is off, the taste of CBD will become more prominent.
How Long After I Opened Gummies Are Safe to Eat Them?
Once you open a pack of CBD gummies, it is best to eat them within 1-2 months to keep them fresh. Always check the package for the “best by” or expiration date.
CBD gummies, like any other food, don’t last forever. Over time, they can get hard, lose flavor, or become less effective. If they look weird, smell off, or taste bad, it’s safer to throw them away.
If you don’t eat gummies often, buy a smaller amount so they don’t go bad before you finish them!
Summary
Knowing how to keep edibles fresh is a matter of understanding that gummy candies exposed to the air will experience evaporation. The CBD candy hardens when it loses water. You can try to rehydrate them by soaking the gummies in a bowl of warm water for 15-20 minutes. Making gummies that retain their flavor and consistency is a complex science. When you doubt the quality of your CBD gummies, the best thing to do is buy a fresh package.
Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20112158/
- https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/pectin-vs-gelatin-11664.html
- https://serc.carleton.edu/integrate/teaching_materials/food_supply/student_materials/905
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6480394/
Janet Kerley
What will be the best way to take the gummies how does it make you feel
Tony Rao
Gummies should be taken orally. They may promote relaxation, reduce discomfort and may improve sleep.
Janet Kerley
What about the oil what does it do for you
Tony Rao
Proponents of CBD oil and other CBD products claim that it can have many possible benefits.