Delta-8 THC distillate is a popular cannabis extract that has gained a lot of attention recently for its therapeutic effects. Like any cannabis concentrate, however, delta-8 distillate has a shelf life and can expire over time. Understanding how long delta-8 distillate lasts and how to store it properly is important for maintaining its potency and getting the most out of this beneficial cannabinoid.
What is delta-8 distillate?
Delta-8 THC distillate is a highly concentrated extract made from hemp. It goes through an extensive purification process known as distillation to remove all plant material and isolate pure delta-8 THC. This results in a thick, viscous oil that is around 95% delta-8 THC.
Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid that occurs naturally in small amounts in hemp and cannabis. It has become popular over the past couple years as an alternative to delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Delta-8 produces more mild, clear-headed effects compared to delta-9 and does not cause as much anxiety or paranoia.
Delta-8 distillate contains virtually no CBD, THC-A, or other cannabinoids—just high levels of delta-8 THC. It typically comes in a syringe for easy dosing. People consume delta-8 distillate orally by squeezing a small amount under the tongue and allowing it to absorb sublingually. The effects come on within 30 minutes to an hour and last around 4-6 hours.
Does delta-8 distillate expire?
Yes, delta-8 distillate can expire and lose potency over time. Like other cannabis concentrates, delta-8 distillate is sensitive to factors like heat, light, and air exposure. Properly stored delta-8 can remain fresh and effective for around 12-18 months. After this time period, it will start to degrade in quality and eventually expire.
How does delta-8 distillate expire?
There are a few main factors that cause delta-8 distillate to expire:
- Oxidation – Exposure to oxygen can cause the compounds in delta-8 distillate to oxidize and break down.
- Heat – High temperatures accelerate the expiration process and cause delta-8 to degrade faster.
- Light – UV light exposure leads to the breakdown of cannabinoids like delta-8 THC.
- Moisture – Any water getting into the distillate can encourage mold growth and spoilage.
Over time, these environmental factors reduce the delta-8 content in the distillate and make it less potent. The texture and color of the oil may also change as it expires, becoming darker and more viscous.
How long does delta-8 distillate last?
When stored properly, delta-8 distillate typically lasts around:
- 12 months – In a cool, dark place the distillate should remain fresh for about a year.
- 18 months – Refrigerated, delta-8 can stay effective for around 18 months before degrading.
- 2+ years – Frozen distillate may last over 2 years before expiring.
These timelines can vary based on how well the delta-8 is stored and the quality of the starting material. High-grade distillate that is kept frozen in an airtight container may last even longer than 2 years before going bad.
How to store delta-8 distillate properly
To extend the shelf life of delta-8 distillate and delay expiration, it needs to be stored in the right conditions. Here are some tips for proper storage:
- Keep in an airtight glass or stainless steel container – This prevents air exposure and keeps out excess moisture.
- Store in a cool, dark place – Light and heat speed up degradation, so the cooler and darker the storage spot the better.
- Refrigerate for longer shelf life – Storing delta-8 in the fridge can extend its lifespan significantly.
- Freeze for maximum longevity – Freezing is the best way to make delta-8 distillate last over 2 years.
- Avoid plastic containers – Plastic can interact with the compounds in delta-8 and alter its properties over time.
With proper storage methods, delta-8 distillate can maintain optimal freshness and effects for over a year. Refrigerating or freezing the distillate helps prevent degradation even longer.
Signs that delta-8 distillate has expired
Here are some signs that your delta-8 distillate has expired and is past its prime:
- Change in consistency – The oil becomes much thicker and darker.
- Reduced potency – The effects feel noticeably weaker than when the distillate was fresh.
- Harsh taste – The flavor becomes bitter and unpleasant.
- Irritation – Expired distillate may cause throat or lung irritation when vaped or dabbed.
- Mold – Any fuzzy growth means the distillate has spoiled and should be thrown out.
Once your delta-8 distillate shows these signs, it is well past its expiration and won’t provide the same great experience and benefits of fresh, high-quality distillate. The best option is to dispose of it and get a new batch.
Can you use expired delta-8 distillate?
You can technically still use delta-8 distillate after the expiration date, but it will be significantly less effective. The delta-8 content has degraded, making the distillate far less potent.
Consuming expired distillate also carries some risks:
- Muted effects – You likely won’t get the desired therapeutic benefits.
- Off tastes and smells – Degraded distillate has an unappealing flavor.
- Possible irritation – Outdated, harsh distillate may irritate your throat or lungs.
- Health concerns – Expired distillate could potentially cause side effects.
For these reasons, it’s not recommended to use delta-8 distillate that has sat around too long past its expiration. The best option is to purchase a fresh batch so you can enjoy the full effects again.
Does expired delta-8 distillate pose any risks?
While rare, there is a possibility that using degraded, expired delta-8 distillate could pose some health risks. Here are a couple concerns:
- Contaminants – The expired distillate may contain higher levels of contaminants like solvents, heavy metals, pesticides, etc.
- Unsafe byproducts – Breakdown of delta-8 over time can create potentially toxic byproducts.
- Respiratory irritation – Dabbing or vaping expired distillate may irritate lungs and airways.
If the delta-8 is extremely old and has been stored improperly, the buildup of contaminants and byproducts may make it unsafe for consumption. For moderate expiration, the risks are very low, but the distillate will simply be much less potent and effective.
How to dispose of expired delta-8 distillate
If your delta-8 distillate has clearly expired, the safest option is to dispose of it properly. Here are some tips for safe disposal:
- Check local cannabis disposal laws – Some states allow throwing out cannabis in household trash.
- Mix with an unappealing substance – Coffee grounds, dirt, or kitty litter can help conceal the distillate.
- Seal it tightly – Secure the old distillate in an airtight bag or container before tossing.
- Obscure any labeling – Scratch out any branding or labels indicating it’s delta-8.
- Take it to a hazardous waste facility – They can dispose of cannabis products safely and legally.
Never dump expired distillate down a drain or toilet, as this causes environmental contamination. With the right precautions, you can dispose of delta-8 distillate without harming the environment or putting yourself at legal risk.
Conclusion
Like any cannabis extract, delta-8 distillate has a limited shelf life and will eventually expire. Proper storage is key to maximizing the longevity of your distillate. Kept in a cool, dark place in an airtight container, it should last around 12 months. Refrigerating extends this to around 18 months, while freezing can maintain optimal freshness beyond 2 years. Once expired, delta-8 distillate loses potency quickly and can develop unpleasant tastes and smells. Although technically still consumable, degraded delta-8 provides muted effects at best, and may potentially cause side effects or irritation. For the best experience, use fresh distillate within the first year and a half and dispose of any expired product.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does unopened delta-8 distillate last?
Unopened, stored properly in a cool dark place, delta-8 distillate can last around 12-18 months before expiring. If kept refrigerated or frozen, unopened distillate may last even longer.
Does delta-8 distillate need to be refrigerated?
Refrigeration is not strictly necessary, but can more than double the shelf life of delta-8 distillate from around 12 months to 18+ months when kept in the fridge. Refrigerating an unopened package can extend freshness even longer.
Can you freeze delta-8 distillate?
Yes, freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage of delta-8 distillate. Frozen properly in an airtight container, delta-8 distillate can remain fresh and potent for over 2 years.
What happens if you consume expired delta-8?
Consuming expired delta-8 distillate will provide diminished effects. The delta-8 THC has degraded, making the product far less potent. Expired distillate may also have an unpleasant taste and cause mild irritation when vaped or dabbed.
Does heat degrade delta-8 THC?
Yes, heat is one of the main factors that can accelerate delta-8 degradation. Storing distillate in warm conditions or exposing it to heat through cooking, vaping, etc. will cause it to expire much faster.
Can expired distillate make you sick?
In most cases, mildly expired distillate will not make you sick and poses minimal health risks. However, very old and extremely degraded distillate may potentially cause some adverse side effects in rare cases.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | 6-12 months |
| Refrigerated | 12-18 months |
| Frozen | 18 months – 2+ years |
What’s the best way to store delta-8 distillate long-term?
The best long-term storage method is freezing the delta-8 distillate in an airtight, non-transparent glass or stainless steel container. Kept frozen, delta-8 distillate can retain optimal freshness and potency for over 2 years.
