Like other natural things, weed is an organic matter that has a shelf life after which it is no longer fit for consumption. The intake of moldy marijuana can be hazardous, more so if you have pre-existing health problems.
But, how long does weed stay good? It essentially depends on how you store it and the conditions it is exposed to. Take a look at the brief guide below to understand this better.
The amount of time weed stays fresh
The critical thing to note is that all forms of cannabis have varied shelf lives. For this reason, they also have different properties, with several strains being used for medicinal purposes as well.
When it comes to marijuana, it can last for anywhere between six months to a year if stored well. Past that time, it begins to lose its smell, taste, and potency. That’s because it is an organic compound derived from plant material that decomposes with time.
So, exactly how long does weed stay good?
Most researchers agree that weed begins to lose at least sixteen percent of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – its main psychoactive ingredient – after a year, and it drops further as time passes. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that the whole stash has gone bad. It mostly loses its aroma and potency, not being as effective as earlier.
However, it may form mold at some point in time if left untouched and stored wrongly. You will notice this in the form of fine white powdery spots. And once it becomes moldy, it is definitely not wise to smoke it as it could lead to some grave health hazards.
How to store it the right way
Light, oxygen, temperature, and humidity play a crucial role in determining how long weed stays fresh and fit to be consumed. They can alter its taste, aroma, and potency. Therefore, it is critical to control the exposure of marijuana to these.
Consider the following when storing weed to ensure it stays safe to consume for longer periods.
- Select the apt container
Keeping weed in plastic bags and containers is unwise. They produce static and can easily affect sensitive trichomes – crystal-like tiny hairs on the flowers, responsible for making terpenes and cannabinoids. This reduces the potency of marijuana. You should also avoid tin cans as they let in too much oxygen.
Glass jars are typically the best option as they are airtight and do not have static. They are also less expensive than other containers.
- Store it in a dry, cool, and dark place
Direct sunlight can cause the weed to break down and dry out quickly. So, ensure to keep the glass jar in a cool, dark place. Similarly, you should avoid exposing it to humid conditions. A cabinet or closet with temperatures below 77°F is ideal.
- Avoid freezing it
Not everything lasts longer if you freeze it. The same rule applies to weed storage. Extreme cold can also cause the trichomes in it to break down easily and lose potency. Also, exposure to cold can make marijuana vulnerable to moisture, resulting in mold.
If you prudently follow the above steps, you should be able to comfortably keep your stash of marijuana fresh for at least a year. Beyond that, exercise caution and do not consume if it becomes moldy.
