For the person looking at their emergency stash of weed that hasn’t been touched in over two years asking themselves “can weed go bad?”—the answer is yes and no. Like most natural products, cannabis won’t go bad in the sense that you’ll get sick from it, but it will lose its freshness. As a result, the flavor, potency, and effects of the weed will all be affected.
How Long Does Weed Last?
If properly stored, cannabis can last from 6 months to a year. The longer it is kept out, the more it will lose its potency.
When storing your weed, keep in mind that light, humidity, temperature, and oxygen exposure can all affect the stash. Choose a container that has an airtight seal and is not made of plastic. Glass mason jars are a great affordable option. These jars will limit static charge from plastic and limit oxygen exposure. Then, place the jar in a cool, dark area with very little humidity.
Some people have tried putting weed in the freezer. This however is not a good idea as it can cause the trichomes to break off. This will ultimately give the same result as letting the weed sit out—a loss of flavor, aroma, and potency.
Check For Mold
If your stash is super old, it’s a good idea to check for mold. Mold can be difficult to spot on cannabis, especially if it has lots of crystal trichomes. If you see clusters of powdery fuzzy spots, it’s best to ditch the bud.
IF your immune system is weak, inhaling smoke from weed-containing mold can cause serious health issues or even death. Always be on the lookout for mold when you pick up any questionable bud.
Conclusion
Keeping your weed away from humidity, sunlight, and oxygen should keep it from going bad for up to a year. If the bud looks or smells off in any way, a good rule of thumb is just to toss it.
