Do Edible Gummies Expire?

Gummies are among the most popular types of cannabis products sold today. Gummies, an early edible that emerged long before legalization, continue to stand as a crowd-pleaser known for their ease of use, variety, and extended shelf life. 

Like any other consumable, cannabis or otherwise, edible gummies have an expiration date. Storing infused treats correctly is fundamental for both safety and quality, but even then, gummies will eventually expire. When considering a cannabis gummy’s shelf life and how long they last, it’s vital to consider several factors that impact their quality and effectiveness.

Do Edible Gummies Expire?

Yes, cannabis-infused edible gummies do expire, but if stored properly, they can stay fresh for an extended period of time. 

Shelf lives vary depending on the product’s ingredients, quality, and storage conditions. However, if stored properly, cannabis-infused gummies usually stay fresh for one to two years. 

Some preservatives can extend a gummy’s freshness, while natural ingredients may lead to shorter shelf lives. Check each product’s expiration date and ingredients to understand how long a specific gummy will likely last. 

Is It Okay to Eat Expired Edible Gummies?

Eating or drinking expired gummies is generally not recommended. Turned edibles likely won’t result in serious outcomes, but there is a chance for unpleasant side effects. 

Over time, gummies' quality, flavor, and potency decline like other food products. Eating expired gummies could result in unexpected effects or even an upset stomach. These adverse effects may stem from one or more expired ingredients, including cannabis, with THC converting from the intoxicating cannabinoid to CBN, an often sleep-inducing compound.¹

What Affects the Shelf-Life of Cannabis Gummies?

Numerous factors influence a gummy’s freshness. Much like everyday foods and other cannabis products, infused gummies face a number of natural challenges that can diminish freshness and overall quality.

Ingredients

The ingredients used in gummies significantly impact shelf life. For example, natural ingredients like real fruit extracts tend to have shorter lifespans than those with added preservatives. Always check the ingredients list for indicators of perishability. 

Storage Temperature

In most cases, storing cannabis gummies in a cool, dark place helps extend shelf life. Excessive heat, cold, or fluctuating temperatures can result in diminished consistency, altering edible textures, and even degrading the cannabinoids in certain cases. 

Humidity

The humidity needs to be just right with edibles. High humidity can turn gummies excessively sticky and lead to mold over time. On the other hand, low humidity can lead to excessively firm or hardened edibles. 

UV Light

Direct exposure to UV light can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, impacting potency and shortening shelf life. Whenever possible, store edibles and other cannabis products in UV-protected glass. 

Packaging

Packaging can indicate how long a product will stay fresh. Some products come in UV-protected or airtight packaging, which helps keep oxygen, light, and humidity at bay. Products stored in other materials may only last for a short time, as they could be exposed to one or more elements. 

When in doubt, follow any specific storage advice on the label and/or adhere to standard best food storage practices. 

How to Tell If Gummies Have Gone Bad

Knowing how to spot expired gummies and edibles is helpful. Look for obvious and subtle changes in edibles to gauge their freshness and quality.

Expiration Date and Lab Test Results

Gummies tend to expire in one or two years, giving consumers plenty of time to enjoy them. Still, consumers should always check the package for a production date, expiration date, or QR code that links to lab test results, providing insight into when the edible was made. 

Changes in Color, Texture, or Smell

Just like any other aged food or drink, infused edibles will offer some tell-tale signs of expiration. Signs include changes in color and textures or an off-putting odor. Consumers are urged to avoid eating or drinking edibles displaying one or more of these signs. 

Potency Loss or Change in Effect

THC in gummies typically degrade as they expire. Over time, especially when exposed to light and heat, THC converts into CBN, which will alter the effects, likely putting the consumer in a state of sedation. 

Do Edibles Expire in the Freezer?

Freezing edibles can extend their shelf life and prolong THC from converting to CBN for some time. However, freezing edibles will not prevent them from eventually expiring. 

Correct storage is key to avoiding product degradation, freezer burn, and moisture build-up. When stored properly, gummies maintain their freshness beyond the typical 1-2 year shelf life. Exact timelines will vary based on the ingredients used in the product.

Best Practices for Storing Edibles

Proper storage makes a world of difference in the freshness and quality of cannabis gummies. The same approach applies to store-bought or homemade edibles. 

Consider the common risks and other kitchen preservation practices when preparing to store infused edible gummies.

Temperature Control

Storing gummies in a cool, dark place helps avoid temperature fluctuations and keeps the elements at bay. Refrigeration or freezing can be helpful but is only advised if the packaging states that the item is safe for long-term preservation.

Humidity Management

Humidity packs help maintain ideal moisture levels in various products, including foods stored in dry climates. 

UV Protection

Opaque containers or UV-protected packaging help shield gummies and other cannabis products from light exposure, maintaining their freshness. 

Airtight Containers

Airtight packaging, from bags to glass mason jars, is suitable for long-term storage when kept in a cool, dark environment. Ideally, these containers are also UV-protected. 

Date Tracking

Just about everything has an expiration date–cannabis included. Note the product’s expiration date and remember when the package was first opened. These important dates will help consumers understand how long the product should stay fresh.

Gummies FAQ

How Long Do Edible Gummies Last?

If stored properly, most cannabis-infused gummies should last one to two years. However, natural ingredients can shorten shelf life, while preservatives can prolong the freshness of certain items. 

Is It Safe to Eat Expired Gummies?

While eating expired gummies is rarely, if ever, considered life-threatening, it is still not advised. When gummies expire, changes in taste, texture, and potency can occur, all of which impact the experience.

Do Edibles Get Stronger After They Expire?

No, edibles won’t get stronger with age. Instead, the experience is likely to change. As THC breaks down over time, it converts into a weaker, often sedative cannabinoid, CBN. 

Do Edibles Expire in the Freezer?

Yes, edibles will expire in the freezer, but their shelf lives can be prolonged if stored properly. Gummies should be stored in airtight containers to avoid freezer burn and moisture exposure.

Are Edible Gummies Legal?

That depends on each state’s rules and regulations. With cannabis still federally illegal, it’s up to the states to decide what can and cannot be sold. Be sure to check local state laws before buying edibles or any other cannabis products.

Are Edibles Bad for You?

‘Bad’ is a subjective term that has to be considered within the scope of each person. While some gummies may contain sugar, preservatives, and other ingredients that some deem ‘bad,’ no legally produced cannabis edible should produce adverse effects by design.

References

1. Zamengo L, Bettin C, Badocco D, Marco VD, Miolo G, Frison G. The role of time and storage conditions on the composition of hashish and marijuana samples: A four-year study. Forensic Science International. 2019;298:131-137. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.02.058
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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.