How to Keep Weed Fresh

Have you always wondered what the best practice is in order to keep weed fresh? Is it in a glass jar? In the freezer? In an air-tight baggy? Can weed even go bad?

To answer the latter question, the simple answer is yes. Over time there are several variables that can speed up the process of cannabinoid deterioration. So, what is a cannabinoid?

A cannabinoid refers to a chemical substance that joins the cannabinoid receptors located in the body and brain. CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) are the cannabinoids found in cannabis - the latter of which being the psychoactive chemical compound that provides us with the sought-after ‘high’.

Related Article: CBD: A Beginner's Guide

Since at least 1976, where a study exploring the stability of cannabis concluded that light exposure is the largest contributor to cannabinoid loss with air and water close runner ups, an array of preservation methods are constantly circulating the cannabis world. Should it be in glass jar? Does the bag need to be sealed? Are green containers best? So, which preservation method is best to keep your pot fresh?

To understand the best way to preserve the cannabinoids in your weed, it is good to know what is happening.

Simply put, over extended periods of time, prolonged cannabis exposure to light and air convert the chemical compound of THCA to THC (the compound that gets us high). However, at the same time, currently active THC compounds are being converted to CBN, which do not provide the ‘stoned’ effects of THC. Over time all of the psycho-active compounds will have deteriorated.

UV light rays will always degrade the quality of your weed. Rather than going for the clear jars for the aesthetically pleasing value of showcasing your cannabis, go for brown shaded containers (brewers use green and brown to keep UV rays out of their bottled beer). Even better, green containers keep roughly 30 per cent of UV rays out. 

Further, oxygen exposure leads to oxidization of essential terpenes. Terpenes are secreted in the same glands that produce cannabinoids. They are oils that give cannabis their signature aromas. It is thought that terpenes add therapeutic value to cannabis and may promote stress-relief and relaxation.

Mold is never good, and weed mold is no exception. Though the relationship between moisture content and water activity and its optimization with marijuana preservation is complicated, we do know that a relative humidity over 65% can increase the likelihood of mold growing on your cannabis and so it is important to maintain a healthy balance.

Related Article: Mold Cannabis can be Fatal 2020

So in a nutshell, the longer your pot is exposed to the elements, the quicker you’re going to lose the high-inducing qualities of your pot. Knowing how to store your weed properly will help you to keep your pot fresh and to get the most out of your cannabis experience. 

The best way to store your stash and maintain its freshness is in an opaque, sealed container, in a relatively cool place with minimal sunlight.

If you're running low on your stash, don't forget to place for order today for  same day delivery in Ontario, Canada.

Share with us your favourite storage container for your stash in the comment section below.