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A question we're often asked is, “does CBD oil expire?” Like most foods and dietary supplements, CBD oil does inevitably expire. In general, the shelf life of CBD oil can range anywhere from 12 months to 18 months. However, shelf life depends on a few different factors, like the ingredients, CBD extraction method, and storage. Understanding the shelf life of CBD oil—and how to extend it—can help you make use of every last drop.
To provide further clarity on CBD oil expiration, we’ve provided information on factors involved in the shelf life of CBD oil, how to tell if your product has gone bad, and helpful storage tips.
While CBD oil generally has a 12- to 18-month shelf life, the exact shelf life depends on the following factors:
Ingredients: Ingredients are a major element that plays into CBD oil's shelf life. Every ingredient matters—each ingredient, including flavorings, colorings, and additives, has its own shelf life. Ideally, CBD oil only has two ingredients: a carrier oil and hemp extract.
Hemp Quality: Starting from the source, it’s important that CBD is extracted from high-quality hemp plants and that the final product is third-party tested for things like mold, microbiological contaminants, and heavy metals as contaminants can degrade the CBD oil more quickly.
CBD Extraction Method: CO2 CBD extraction is currently considered the gold standard in the industry because it not only keeps the compounds stable and extends the shelf life of the CBD oil but also maximizes the level of CBD and other cannabinoids that can be obtained during the extraction process.
Storage: Heat and sunlight can increase the rate of degradation of CBD oil, consequently causing it to expire more quickly and reducing the potency. Proper storage of your CBD oil can help extend the shelf life and make sure you get your money’s worth.
How Can You Tell If Your CBD Oil Has Expired?
If you’ve had a bottle for a while and are unsure of the expiration date, there are a few ways to know if your CBD oil has gone bad. Here’s when you know it might be time to purchase a new bottle:
Changes in Color: If your CBD oil is pure high-quality hemp extract mixed with a carrier oil, it’s typically a clear, golden color. If it becomes dark, thick, and murky, it might be time to toss that bottle.
Funky Smell or Taste: Hemp is an agricultural product so each batch might have a slightly different taste but should still always have that nutty, earthy smell and taste (unless it’s masked by added flavorings). If it tastes or smells rancid, it’s likely expired.
Like a lot of foods and supplements, CBD oil is affected by changes in light, temperature, and oxygen. Luckily, there’s plenty you can do to preserve your CBD oil’s freshness and potency. Here’s what we recommend:
Store your oil at a cool temperature. Anywhere between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit will do.
Store your oil in a dark place like a cupboard, pantry, or closet. The big thing here is making sure you avoid exposing the CBD oil to direct sunlight.
Make sure wherever you choose to store your CBD oil is away from heat sources like stoves or radiators.
Keep the oil in its original container and make sure to close it tightly after use to avoid any unnecessary exposure to air.
Make sure you keep your CBD dropper clean to avoid contaminants getting into the oil. If you take CBD oil under your tongue, be careful not to touch the dropper against the inside of your mouth.
Our CBD oils contain only full-spectrum hemp and MCT oil and are triple-tested to ensure we are providing the highest quality and most effective oils to help you feel your best. The shelf life of our oils is 18 months when stored in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight.
If you still have questions about CBD oil expiration or storage tips, or about what Feals can do for you, our customer service team would be more than happy to answer your questions. Just give them a ring.
To learn more about CBD oil expiration guidelines or about what Feals can do for you, call our CBD hotline at 844-311-9090 or check out our products today.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
