CBD oil has become a staple in many households for its potential health benefits. Whether you’re using it for pain relief, anxiety, or general wellness, it’s important to know how to store your CBD oil properly to ensure it remains effective.
Can CBD Oil Go Bad?
If stored properly, CBD oil typically has a shelf life of about 1 to 2 years. However, the quality of the product when purchased plays a significant role. Always buy from reputable sources that offer high-quality, lab-tested CBD oil, like our CBD Oil and our specially formulated CBD Oil for Cats and Dogs.
How Do You Know If CBD Oil Is Bad?
Just like other natural products, CBD oil can degrade over time. Here are some signs that your CBD oil might have gone bad:
Unpleasant Smell:
Fresh CBD oil generally has a characteristic aroma that can vary depending on its formulation. For example, a natural CBD oil might have an earthy or nutty scent, while oils infused with cannabis-derived terpenes, peppermint, or cinnamon may carry their respective aromas. For pet-specific CBD oil, such as those flavored with Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil, a fresh fishy or neutral scent is expected. If your CBD oil develops a rancid or sour smell, regardless of its original scent profile, it is likely spoiled.
Change in Taste:
High-quality CBD oil has a taste that aligns with its formulation—be it earthy and grassy, or flavored with peppermint, cinnamon, or terpenes. If the taste becomes bitter, off-putting, or significantly different from what it should be, it may indicate that the oil is past its prime. For pet oils, a shift from a pleasant or mild taste to something more pungent or stale is a sign the product may have degraded.
Cloudiness or Color Change:
While the color of CBD oil can vary—clear for more refined oils, amber or dark brown for full-spectrum oils, and possibly greenish if chlorophyll is present—each should maintain a consistent appearance. If you notice cloudiness or a significant color change, it could mean that the oil has begun to degrade, regardless of whether it originally contained added terpenes or other flavors.
Separation:
Some separation in CBD oil is normal, especially in products containing additional ingredients like terpenes or flavorings. However, if the separation becomes excessive or if the product’s texture changes drastically, it may indicate that the oil is going bad.
Does CBD Oil Need to Be Refrigerated?
While refrigeration is not strictly necessary, it can help prolong the shelf life of your CBD oil. Cooler temperatures slow down the degradation process, helping your oil maintain its potency for a longer period. However, if you use your CBD oil regularly, storing it in a cool, dark place like a pantry is typically sufficient.
For those using CBD oil less frequently or living in a warmer climate, refrigeration might be a good option to consider.
What Color Should CBD Oil Be?
The color of CBD oil can vary widely depending on several factors, including the extraction method, the type of carrier oil used, and whether the oil is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate-based. At Fern Valley Farms, we use Organic MCT Oil as our carrier oil, which typically gives our CBD oil a clear to light gold appearance. However, added ingredients like cannabis-derived terpenes or our various other flavors can also influence the final color. Typically, CBD oil ranges from clear or light gold to dark brown or even green.
Clear to Light Gold:
This is often seen in more refined CBD oils where impurities and plant material have been removed. The use of Organic MCT Oil as a carrier contributes to this lighter appearance. Oils with added flavors like peppermint or cinnamon might also appear in this range but with slight variations depending on the specific ingredients used.
Amber or Dark Brown:
Common in full-spectrum CBD oils that retain more of the plant’s natural compounds, including chlorophyll, cannabinoids, and terpenes. Oils with added cannabis-derived terpenes might exhibit a richer amber hue, depending on the terpene profile.
Green:
This usually indicates the presence of raw hemp extract, which includes chlorophyll and other plant materials. Some flavored oils or those with added terpenes may also take on a greenish tint, especially if they are less refined.
A significant change in color can be a sign that the oil is degrading, particularly if it has turned cloudy or darker than usual, regardless of its original formulation.
How to Store CBD Oil
Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of your CBD oil. Here are some tips:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV light can degrade CBD oil, so it’s best to store it in a dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry.
- Keep It Cool: While room temperature is generally fine, cooler temperatures can help maintain the oil’s potency. Avoid storing your oil near heat sources like stoves or radiators.
- Seal Tightly: Exposure to air can speed up the degradation process. Make sure to close the bottle tightly after each use to minimize oxygen exposure.
- Consider Refrigeration: As mentioned earlier, refrigeration can be beneficial, especially in warmer climates or if you won’t be using the oil for an extended period.
Whether you’re new to CBD oil or a seasoned user, knowing how to store it properly can make a big difference in your experience. Remember to check for signs of spoilage and keep your oil in a cool, dark place. For those seeking quality CBD oil for themselves or their pets, Fern Valley Farms offers a variety of options to suit your needs.
