How to Tell if CBD Oil Is Expired

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a versatile natural substance that has gained much popularity thanks to its potential wellness benefits. However, it’s crucial to know that, like all products, it has a specific shelf life. Therefore, it is no surprise that using expired CBD oil can reduce its efficacy and potentially put your health at risk.

To help clear any doubts and shed more light on the situation, this guide will help you determine if your CBD oil has passed its expiration date and what to do about it. Below, you’ll also find handy tips on storing CBD oil to extend its shelf life and recognizing signs of spoilage when purchasing a new bottle.

Does CBD Oil Expire?

Yes, CBD oil can expire. It has a shelf life of around one to two years. Regardless of how often you use CBD oil, it will expire eventually. It’s essential to bear in mind that the exact numbers can vary, and a lot depends on the brand of your CBD oil as well as all the ingredients it contains.

CBD oil from one brand can expire after just a year, while other brands may sell tinctures that will stay good for even up to 3 years. Although most people finish their CBD oil way before this time, some use it only occasionally and may find themselves with a bottle of CBD oil that’s been sitting in their cabinet for much longer.

In such a case, it’s crucial to recognize the most common indicators of CBD oil that has gone bad. After all, you definitely wouldn’t want to risk experiencing the side effects of consuming expired CBD oil, which may include stomach ache, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and drowsiness.

What Factors Affect CBD Oil Shelf Life?

Several different factors can affect the shelf life of your CBD oil. Learning more about them will allow you to determine how you should preserve your products.

Here’s what you should know:

Ingredients

Unless you use CBD isolate, which contains only pure CBD and no other cannabinoids or plant compounds, your CBD oil will likely contain various ingredients. Each of these ingredients has an expiration date, and their unique composition can cause your CBD oil to have a shorter shelf life.

Hence, the purer CBD oil you purchase, the longer it should last.

Storage

The way you store your CBD oil also plays a significant role in how long it will last. In general, it’s best to keep your CBD oil in a cool and dark place, such as a kitchen cabinet or a pantry. If you live in a particularly hot climate, you can also refrigerate it, but remember not to freeze it. 

You also shouldn’t transfer the oil to another container because the opaque bottle it comes in helps to keep it fresh for longer.

Quality

CBD oil’s shelf life can also depend on its quality.

Generally, high-quality CBD oil should have a longer shelf life due to the type of hemp used, the growing conditions, and other factors involved in production. On the other hand, the hemp used for poor-quality CBD oil is likely to be grown in soil that may contain more pesticides and chemicals, causing the product to expire faster.

How to Tell if Your CBD Oil Has Expired?

If you have an old bottle of CBD oil that’s been opened quite a long time ago and you’re wondering whether it’s still suitable for consumption, there are a few factors that you should pay attention to.

Start by checking the expiration date. Most CBD products, whether it’s CBD oil, CBD gummies, or CBD softgels, come with an expiration date printed on the label. Then, smell your oil. Usually, CBD oil is fragrance-free or has a slightly earthy, hemp-like odor.

If you can’t smell anything, taste the oil. A bitter or rancid taste can indicate that the oil has gone bad.

Next, look for separation. Expired CBD oil may separate into layers and develop a thick, gooey consistency.

Finally, check for mold or other contaminants. If you see any mold or foreign particles in the oil, it is likely expired and should be discarded.

FAQ

What should I do if I think my CBD oil has expired?

If you think your CBD oil has expired, it’s best to discard it and purchase a new bottle. Consuming expired CBD oil can reduce its efficacy and put your health at risk.

How long does it take for CBD oil to start working?

The time it takes for CBD oil to take effect can vary depending on the individual and the method of consumption. Most people who consume CBD oil orally or add it to food or beverages report that it can start working within 30 minutes to one hour.

What should I look for when buying CBD oil?

When buying CBD oil, it’s essential to look for a product made by a reputable brand. It should have clear labeling and ingredients and be third-party tested for quality and purity.

Can I use CBD oil regardless of where I live?

The legality of CBD oil depends on where you live and the source of CBD. Hemp-derived CBD oil is legal in many places, but it’s always best to check the local laws before purchasing it.

Is CBD oil safe to use?

CBD oil is considered safe for most people. Still, it’s important to talk to a doctor before using it, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, dealing with some health issues, or taking any medication.

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