CBD oil is a popular product that has gained widespread popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits.

It is a natural substance derived from the hemp plant, and it contains various cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help regulate different functions.

However, like most natural products, the oil has a limited shelf life and can go bad if not stored properly.

In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate CBD oil has gone bad, the factors that affect its shelf life, and how to extend its shelf life to last longer.

Does CBD Oil Expire?4 Signs!

When considering the oil, the first question that comes to mind is, does it expire? The answer is yes. CBD oil has a shelf life and can go bad if not stored properly.

CBD oil’s shelf life can be affected by various factors such as the type of CBD, extraction method, additional ingredients, and carrier oil quality. Using high-quality ingredients such as pure oil and olive oil can help to extend the shelf life of a bottle of CBD oil.

It’s vital to store essential oils and the oil properly to avoid expiration. Proper storage, such as keeping them in a cool and dark place, can help to prolong the shelf life of these products and prevent them from going bad.

When using CBD oil, it’s essential to remember that it expires just like any other product. Using expired oil can harm your health, so checking the expiration date and ensuring the product has been stored properly is crucial.

The first sign to watch out for is a color change. Fresh CBD oil is usually clear or lightly golden. If you notice that your oil has turned brown or is darker than when you first bought it, it could be a sign that it has gone bad. The second sign is a change in smell. Fresh CBD oil has a mild, earthy aroma.

If you notice that your oil has a strong, rancid odor, it could be a sign that it has gone bad. The third sign is a change in taste. Fresh CBD oil has a slightly bitter taste, but it should not be overpowering.

If you notice that your oil tastes sour or has a strong aftertaste, it could be a sign that it has gone bad. The fourth sign is the presence of mold or visible contaminants. If you see any mold or visible contaminants in your oil, it is no longer safe to consume.

Factors That Affect CBD Oil Shelf Life

Factors That Affect CBD Oil Shelf Life

Several factors affect the shelf life of CBD oil. These factors include the type of CBD, extraction method, additional ingredients, and carrier oil quality. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.

Type of CBD

There are three types of CBD: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including THC.

Broad-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes in the hemp plant except THC. CBD isolate contains only pure CBD. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD are more susceptible to degradation than CBD isolate due to the presence of other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Extraction Method

The extraction method used to extract oil from the hemp plant can also affect its shelf life. CO2 extraction is the most popular and efficient method, as it produces high-quality oil that is less likely to degrade.

On the other hand, solvent-based extraction methods, such as ethanol or butane extraction, can leave behind harmful residual solvents that can shorten the oil’s shelf life.

Additional Ingredients

CBD oil can also contain ingredients like flavorings, sweeteners, and preservatives. These ingredients can affect the shelf life of the oil.

Natural flavorings and sweeteners are less likely to cause degradation, while synthetic flavorings and sweeteners can cause degradation and shorten the oil’s shelf life.

Preservatives can also extend the oil’s shelf life but can be harmful if consumed in high amounts.

Carrier Oil Quality

CBD oil is typically mixed with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed oil, to improve absorption and make consumption easier. However, the quality of the carrier oil can also affect the shelf life of the oil.

High-quality carrier oils, such as MCT or hemp seed oil, can improve the oil’s shelf life by reducing oxidation and degradation. Conversely, low-quality carrier oils, such as vegetables or canola, can increase the risk of degradation and spoilage.

How to Extend the Shelf Life of CBD Oil to Last Longer?

Hand holding CBD oil bottle with dropper

Fortunately, there are ways to extend the oil’s shelf life to make it last longer. Here are some tips to help you prolong the life of your CBD oil:

Store It in a Cool and Dark Place

CBD oil should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from heat, light, and humidity. Exposure to light and heat can cause oil to degrade and lose potency.

Use a High-Quality Container

Oil should be stored in an airtight, dark glass bottle to protect it from air and light.

Avoid Exposing It to Air

Oxygen can cause Oil to degrade and lose its potency. To avoid this, seal the bottle tightly after each use.

Don’t Mix It With Other Substances

Mixing CBD oil with other substances can cause it to degrade and lose its potency.

Use It Regularly

Regular use of Oil can help prevent it from going bad. Using it regularly will keep the oil flowing and prevent it from settling.

Keep It Away From Children and Pets

CBD oil should be kept out of reach of children and pets, as it can be harmful if ingested in large amounts.

How to Tell if Your CBD Oil Has Gone Bad

As mentioned earlier, several signs indicate the oil has gone bad. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s best to dispose of the oil and purchase a new one:

Color Change

If your oil has changed from its original color to a darker or cloudy appearance, it may have gone bad.

Change in Smell

If your oil has a rancid or foul smell, it may have gone bad.

Change in Taste

It may have gone bad if your oil tastes sour or has a strong aftertaste.

Presence of Mold or Contaminants

If you notice mold or visible contaminants in your oil, it is no longer safe to consume.

Does CBD Oil Need to Be Refrigerated?

CBD oil does not necessarily need to be refrigerated, but storing it in a cool, dark place away from heat and light is best.

Exposure to heat and light can cause oil to degrade and lose its potency, so it’s best to avoid storing it in areas exposed to these elements.

Quality of Hemp

Green hemp leaf with hand

The quality of the hemp used to make oil can also affect its shelf life. High-quality hemp that has been grown organically and without the use of pesticides and herbicides is less likely to contain harmful chemicals that can shorten the shelf life of the oil.

Does CBD Oil Go Bad?

Yes, CBD oil can go bad if not stored properly. The oil’s shelf life can vary depending on several factors, including the type of CBD, extraction method, additional ingredients, carrier oil quality, and storage conditions. However, the oil can last up to one year or longer with proper storage and handling.

How to Tell if Your CBD Oil Is Expired?

Expired CBD oil can have a rancid odor, a sour taste, and a cloudy or dark appearance. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to dispose of the oil and purchase a new one.

Where to Buy Lab-Tested Products?

When purchasing oil, it’s important to buy from reputable companies that test their products for purity and potency.

Look for companies that provide third-party lab results on their website, as this ensures that an independent laboratory has tested the product and meets the quality standards.

You can also look for certifications such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or the U.S. Hemp Authority Certification.

Beware of CBD Oils Sold at Suspiciously Low Prices (They May Be Expired)

Be cautious of CBD oils sold at suspiciously low prices, as they may be expired or of low quality. High-quality oil is expensive to produce, and reputable companies will not sell their products at significantly lower prices than the market value.

Cheap oil may contain harmful chemicals or low levels of CBD, which can be ineffective or even harmful to your health.

How to Make CBD Oil Last Longer

There are several ways to make oil last longer:

Use It Sparingly

Using too much oil can cause it to run out faster. Using it sparingly can help make it last longer.

Store It Properly

Proper storage can help extend the oil’s shelf life and make it last longer.

Buy High-Quality Products

High-quality oil is less likely to go bad and can last longer than low-quality products.

Don’t Mix It With Other Substances

Mixing oil with other substances can cause it to degrade and lose its potency.

How to Make Your CBD Oil Last Longer (Storage Tips)

Bottles of CBD oil on wooden table

Here are some storage tips to help make your oil last longer:

Store It in a Cool and Dark Place

Oil should be stored in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, and humidity.

Use a High-Quality Container

Oil should be stored in an airtight, dark glass bottle to protect it from air and light.

Avoid Exposing It to Air

Oxygen can cause the oil to degrade and lose its potency. To avoid this, seal the bottle tightly after each use.

Don’t Mix It With Other Substances

Mixing the oil with other substances can cause it to degrade and lose its potency.

Can Expired CBD Oil Make You Sick?

Expired CBD oil can harm your health and cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms.

It’s important to check your oil’s expiration date and storage conditions before using it. If you suspect your oil has gone bad, it’s best to dispose of it and purchase a new one.

Only Buy as Much as You Need

Buying only as much as you need is best to avoid wasting oil. Buying in bulk can be cost-effective, but it can also lead to waste if the oil goes bad before you can use it all.

How to Store Topical CBD Products

Store topical CBD products, such as creams and lotions, in a cool, dark place away from heat and light.

Exposure to heat and light can cause the product to degrade and lose potency. Store topical CBD products in airtight containers to protect them from air and moisture.

Store CBD Oil in a Cool and Dark Place

CBD oil should be stored in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, and humidity. Exposure to heat and light can cause the oil to degrade and lose potency. Storing it in a cool, dark place can help extend its shelf life and make it last longer.

Does Freezing CBD Oil Extend Its Shelf Life?

Freezing CBD oil is not recommended, as it can cause the oil to separate and lose its potency. Instead, store oil in a cool, dark place away from heat and light to extend its shelf life.

Final Words

In conclusion, CBD oil does expire, and it’s important to store it properly to extend its shelf life and make it last longer. The factors that affect the oil’s shelf life include the type of CBD, additional ingredients, and storage conditions.

Expired CBD oil can harm your health and cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms. If you suspect your oil has gone bad, it’s best to dispose of it and purchase a new one.

Following these tips and guidelines ensures your oil stays fresh and potent for as long as possible. Always check your oil’s expiration date and storage conditions before using it.