How Long Does Weed Stay Good For?

In case you didn’t know, weed goes bad after a certain period. This begs the question: how long does weed stay good for then? The short answer is it depends on how you store your weed. Under ideal conditions, your weed can remain potent for up to two years.

If you’re interested in how to store your weed properly, keep reading. We’ll go through the ABCs of optimal weed storage, as well as the science of how weed goes bad.

Does Weed Go Bad?

No, it doesn’t mean that your weed will rot or stink in the traditional sense. Weed that “goes bad” refers to weed that’s lost its quality and potency. Unlike spoilt milk or rotten meat, consuming bad weed isn’t harmful or dangerous — you’ll just notice changes in feel, taste, and potency.

However, moldy weed is a different story. When you smoke weed that has been contaminated or exposed to too much humidity, it can make you feel sick or nauseous, and can taste bad too.

But what causes weed to go bad? Let’s talk science.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that’s responsible for the “high” feeling. Over time and under poor storage conditions, THC breaks down into a cannabinoid called cannabinol (CBN). Though CBN produces some effects, these are much less potent and intense than THC.

Moreover, different cannabis strains contain specific cannabinoids and terpenes that give them different flavor and aroma profiles. These compounds also degrade with time, resulting in less flavorful and aromatic weed.

Aside from chemical degradation, the texture and physical quality of your weed can also deteriorate. Exposure to too much or too little moisture may make it spongy or crumbly. It’s still safe to smoke but prepare for a less pleasant smoke with lesser highs and harsher smoke.

How To Tell If Your Weed Went Bad

To ensure a better and more pleasant smoke, better inspect first. Here are some tell-tale signs that your weed might have passed its prime:

• Smell: Good cannabis has a strong aroma. If the weed has a faint smell or no smell at all, it’s probably starting to go bad or has gone bad.
• Color: Weed should be its distinctive green shade. If it starts looking brownish or yellowish, it probably means it’s starting to degrade.
• Texture: If the weed has been properly cured, it should be a bit sticky. If it feels too dry or too wet and you break it off, it’s probably deteriorated.
• Taste: If you’re smoking your usual stash and it tastes a bit off or lacking in flavor, it may be going bad.
• Harsher smoke: If you notice that you’re coughing more than usual from the smoke, it may be a sign of deterioration.
• Mold or mildew: Inspect your weed closely. If you see suspicious white dots or fuzzy-looking sections, it may be mold or mildew. It may also have a stale, musty smell and a slightly different taste.

Tips For Making Your Weed Last Longer

Want to keep your cannabis fresh and potent? Follow these simple tips to extend the lifespan of your stash:

Invest in proper storage

The best conditions for weed are cool, dark, and dry. Find a place where your stash isn’t exposed to too much light, heat, and humidity, which are factors that can speed up degradation (more on this later).

Choose airtight containers, preferably glass, especially if you want long-term storage. Avoid plastic containers since they can hold static which can degrade the potency of your weed. Some metal containers may be good, but depending on the quality, you may notice a metallic taste in your weed.

Regulate temperature

Don’t store your stash in places that aretoo hot or cold. The optimal storage temperature for cannabis is slightly below or around room temperature, around 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 26 degrees Celsius).

Control humidity

Humidity plays a big factor in whether your weed stays fresh or starts becoming moldy. Your storage place should have a relative humidity of about 56% to 63%. You can also use humidity packs to help maintain a specific level.

Avoid direct light

Don’t place your containers near a window or source of light, as UV light can break down cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in your cannabis. Always store your weed in a dark place or an opaque container.

Don’t break down your weed

No matter how tempting it may be, avoid breaking up your buds, as you’re only making them more exposed to the degrading effects of light, air, and temperature. Keep your buds whole until you're ready to use them.

To Sum It Up

Weed can go bad and lose its freshness and potency, which could lead to wasted money and less than pleasant smoking sessions. To ensure you’re getting the best experience with your weed, learn proper storage by investing in the right containers and knowing the right storage conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does weed have a shelf life?

Like with other organic products, weed has a shelf life, depending on the storage conditions, like humidity, temperature, and light and air exposure. Cannabis doesn’t really have an “expiry date,” but it does lose potency, flavor, and aroma after a while. Under proper conditions, weed can retain its freshness for up to two years. 

What does bad weed look like?

Degraded weed should look more brownish or yellowish instead of its usual green shade. Another sign is if you touch it and it feels crumbly or spongy. White dots or fuzzy spots on the buds could also signify mold or mildew growth, which makes it unsafe to consume.

Should you keep weed in plastic?

Yes, you can store weed in plastic, but only for a short period. Plastic can generate static, which could degrade your cannabis and cause it to lose potency. Most cannabis dispensaries and stores sell weed in plastic packs, but it’s recommended that you transfer containers as soon as you can. 

Can a joint go bad?

Yes, joints can go bad. As soon as you roll up a joint, you expose the weed to air, light, humidity, and oxygen — all of which can degrade the weed quality. For the best experience, smoke a joint as soon as you roll it up.