Carts, short for cartridges, refer to the pre-filled containers or pods that contain cannabis oil used in vape pens and other devices. There are a few factors that determine how long carts remain usable before they expire and should be discarded.
Quick Overview
In general, unopened carts can last around 1-2 years from their packaging date when properly stored. Once opened, carts will usually last around 3-6 months with regular use before expiring. However, factors like cannabis strain, extraction method, storage conditions, and more can impact shelf life.
Why Do Carts Expire?
There are a few key reasons why cannabis carts have a limited shelf life:
- Oxidation – Exposure to oxygen can cause the cannabis oil to oxidize over time, degrading potency and flavor.
- Evaporation – As carts are used, some of the cannabis oil will slowly evaporate, leaving less oil in the cart over time.
- Separation – The various compounds in cannabis oil can start to separate over time, especially if carts are exposed to heat or direct sunlight.
- Bacteria growth – Once opened, carts run the risk of harboring bacteria that can multiply in the oil over time.
For these reasons, carts are given expiration or “best by” dates to indicate the timeframe in which the product remains stable and provides the intended effects.
How to Extend Cart Shelf Life
While carts will eventually expire, there are some steps you can take to help extend their shelf life when possible:
- Store unopened carts in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, and moisture.
- Once opened, store carts upright to prevent oil leakage and maintain potency.
- When not in use, keep carts in an area between 60-70°F with stable humidity.
- Avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures, which can degrade the oil faster.
- Use carts within 6 months after opening for best quality and to avoid expiration.
- Check carts for any changes in color, thickness, smell or taste that may indicate expiration.
Unopened Cart Shelf Life
For unopened, sealed carts that have never been used, the following are general guidelines on how long they may remain fresh:
- Distillate Carts: Approximately 1-2 years from the packaging date before expiring.
- Live Resin Carts: Around 1 year from packaging due to more delicate terpenes.
- Full Spectrum Carts: Up to 1 year from packaging for best flavor and effects.
However, optimal storage conditions can help extend the shelf life of unopened carts. Keeping them sealed in a cool, dark place can help them stay potent for as long as possible.
Opened Cart Shelf Life
Once a cart has been opened and is being actively used, here is how long it may typically last before expiring:
- Distillate Carts: Around 3-4 months with regular use.
- Live Resin Carts: Approximately 2-3 months due to delicate terpenes.
- Full Spectrum Carts: Usually 3-4 months after opening.
Higher quality, more pure cannabis oils tend to last a bit longer. But all opened carts should be discarded within 6 months for best safety and to prevent an expired product.
Signs Your Cart is Expired
Watch out for these common signs that indicate your cart has expired and should no longer be used:
- Change in viscosity – Oil looks thicker and darker.
- Cloudiness in oil.
- Separation of oil and terpenes.
- Reduced flavor and aroma.
- Harsh taste and throat irritation when vaping.
- Decreased vapor production.
- Difficulty getting oil to wick to heating element.
A cart that exhibits any of these qualities should be properly disposed. Continued use of an expired cart can potentially lead to negative health effects.
Disposing of Expired Carts
It is important to properly dispose of carts once they have reached their expiration date and are no longer good to use. Here are safe ways to discard expired carts:
- Bring carts to a local hazardous waste collection facility if available in your area. Call ahead to confirm they accept cannabis products.
- For small quantities, carts can be wrapped in several layers of duct or electrical tape to reduce leakage risk, then disposed of in the regular household trash.
- Where legal, unopened expired carts can be returned to the original dispensary for proper disposal.
- If allowed in your municipality, residents can dispose of carts in regular waste containers such as trash bins.
- Always keep carts in proper hazardous waste containers until ready to dispose of, away from high heat and cold.
Be responsible when disposing expired cannabis carts. Improper disposal can lead to contamination and access to the carts by unauthorized persons or wildlife. Consult your local laws and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do unopened vape cartridges last?
Unopened vape cartridges can last around 1-2 years from the packaging date when stored properly.
Do carts expire if not opened?
Yes, even unopened carts will eventually expire and degrade in quality over time. Proper storage can prolong their shelf life.
Can you still use a cart past the expiration date?
It is not recommended to use carts past their expiration date, as the oil quality degrades and health risks increase. Dispose of expired carts properly.
How long do carts last without refrigeration?
At room temperature between 60-70°F, unrefrigerated carts may last around 1-2 years sealed, and around 3-6 months after opening.
Do carts go bad if they get too cold or hot?
Yes, extreme cold or hot temperatures can accelerate the expiration of carts. Ideal storage is between 60-70°F.
How can you tell if a cart is bad or expired?
Signs of expired carts include change in viscosity, cloudiness, separation, decreased flavor and vapor production. Always check condition and date.
The Bottom Line
Cart shelf life varies based on type, storage, and use. But in general:
- Unopened carts remain usable for around 1-2 years when properly stored.
- Opened carts are good for around 3-6 months with regular use.
- Store all carts in stable, moderate temperature away from light and humidity.
- Watch for changes in oil properties, flavor and vapor that indicate expiration.
- Always properly dispose carts that are expired or damaged.
Following cart best practices helps ensure you get the most use within their normal shelf life. But when in doubt, do not hesitate to discard carts that are discolored, damaged or past expiration.
