Certain concentrates, like wax and crumble, have a
softer texture and a rich terpene profile that set them apart from other concentrates. Although all the
same storage rules apply to these luxurious extracts, their unique traits make them a little more high-maintenance when it comes to storage. In the wrong environment,
flavor fades, color dulls, and that perfect dab texture turns dry or goopy—fast.
Yes, it's true: Many people store these stickier concentrates in cute little silicone containers for ease of use. And while they're fine for short-term use (a few days), they're not ideal if you're trying to hang onto flavor and potency. The same goes for plastic jars.
Neither material is as airtight as glass, which may impact the longevity of the flavors and cannabinoids contained inside. Do your future self a favor and invest in a few small, dark glass storage containers for all your concentrates, to lock in that desirable consistency and terpene profile.
If you have a large amount of concentrate (more than a week's worth of dabs), consider dividing it into smaller servings. Take a small amount out for immediate use, and place the rest into a dark glass container kept in the refrigerator. This will reduce the risk of contamination and lock in the quality for when you need to stock up for your next stash.
How Long Does Concentrate Stay Good?
The shelf life of THC concentrates depends on several factors, mainly the type of concentrate and how well it is stored. Firmer concentrates (like shatter) contain less moisture and have a longer shelf life. In comparison, saucier concentrates contain more moisture and often more volatile compounds, which means they are at higher risk of degradation.
But whatever the type of concentrate you have on hand, proper storage can significantly extend the freshness, potency, and flavor of most concentrates from several weeks to upwards of a year. There are no guarantees on shelf life for any type of extract, but here is roughly how long you can expect products to last, provided they are stored under ideal conditions:
- Shatter: 6 to 12 months
- Wax and crumble: 3 to 6 months
- Live resin: 4–6+ months
How can you tell if the concentrate passed its due date?
You'll need to deploy all your senses:
- Appearance: Did the color and consistency change from the original condition when purchased? You'll also want to check for signs of condensation or contamination inside the container. Like you would with old fruit and veggies, trust your gut—if it looks off, chances are, it is.
- Aroma and Flavor: Terpenes are incredibly volatile, degrading even in an airtight container. The smell of the concentrate could dramatically shift as the product ages. While not dangerous, a change in aroma and flavor can indicate an older product.
- Experience: Provided you didn't notice any mold, moisture, or contamination issues, you may have gone ahead and dabbed it. So now, pay close attention to the effects. Older concentrates tend to lose their potency, and often, the more nuanced effects change from the original session.
Extra Tips for Dab Longevity
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