How To Store Cannabis Properly?

How To Store Cannabis Properly

Storage options for cannabis vary based on the type of cannabis product being stored. Loose-leaf cannabis flowers and stems need to be stored differently than manufactured products like medical supplements or beauty products. Read on to learn four practical tips for storing cannabis-related products properly.

1. Focus on Temperature Control

Excessive heat can dry out the beneficial oils in cannabis, including cannabinoids and terpenes. Direct artificial or natural light can also have negative effects on essential oils, degrading cannabinoids potency. Cannabis shouldn’t be stored in the fridge or freezer either, as cold temperatures can convert THC-A to THC. Extended periods in temperatures that are too cold can lead to THC degrading to cannabinol (CBN). The cannabinoid CBN is mildly psychoactive and can act as a strong sedative. Natural and premature aging of cannabis products causes an increase in CBN, which is why packaging it correctly is important. Humidity is also a factor, loose-leaf cannabis flowers and stems store better and maintain their color and potency longer at between 59%-63% relative humidity (RH). High RH levels can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold because humidity can create moisture under the right conditions. If you plan on storing loose-leaf cannabis long-term place humidity packs in marijuana jars, to help product keep its health-related properties.

2. Choose the Best Containers Based on Product

When stored out of the light, cannabis products can remain stable for up to two years if packaged correctly. The best long-term cannabis storage containers are air-tight, colored glass containers. Glass has a neutral charge and amber, blue, and violet colored glass has natural UV-filtering qualities to help protect cannabinoids. Glass is also non-permeable, so it won’t absorb essential oils over long-term cannabis storage. Other options for cannabis storage include:

• Colored plastic containers: Have the same UV-filtering qualities, durable, shatter-resistant, not recommended for long-term storage, works well for capsules and pills, not recommended for long-term storage because cannabis can break plastic down over time
• Metal tins: Helps maintain oils, easy to carry, works well for edibles and balms, not recommended for flowers or stems because of potential air exposure
• Wood cannabis boxes: Airtight options are available, use with humidity packs, not recommended for long-term storage because wood absorbs oils

Temporary storage options for health, beauty, and edible cannabis products are also available. For beauty items like lip balms and glosses options like plastic lip balm tubes with caps or glass vials with rollerballs and PP caps help protect hemp-based products. Hemp-based lotions and hair care products can be stored in a variety of glass and plastic containers with pump or disc caps. Black plastic child-resistant jars are an air-tight solution for cannabis-based creams and salves. Amber plastic bottles with push-turn caps are popular for medicinal cannabis capsules and pills, since they are usually used within a short period. Regardless of materials used to hold cannabis, always keep products in a cool, dark place out of children’s reach.

3. Make Child-Resistant Containers A Must

There are child-resistant capping options for most vials, bottles, jars, and tubes sold for cannabis-related product packaging. For example, Boston Round glass bottles with child-resistant dropper caps work well as child-resistant liquid cannabis vaping containers. Locking bags and cannabis storage boxes are also available for storing prepackaged or loose product. Options for other child-resistant cannabis containers include:

• Dram jars with push-turn caps
• Lockable jars that require keys, with inner push-turn cap containers
• Push-button-pull zippered exit bags

Producers and manufacturers of cannabis products are also leading the way for innovative new child-resistant cannabis storage containers. The trend for cannabis storage and packaging is edging toward sustainable containers that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. New child-resistant cannabis storage options will also focus on using eco-friendly packaging made from recycled materials. 

4. Use Different Containers for Different Strains

Different cannabis strains should be stored separately to help each strain maintain its individual benefits. The flavors and aromas are distinct to each strain, and mixing them can cause discrepancies in flavor profiles. It’s also important not to over-handle cannabis because it can decrease the potency of seeds, flowers, and stems. For recreational users, it may help to store different varieties of cannabis in labeled jars with child-resistant caps, then keep them in wooden boxes designed to be attractive and functional. 

The state regulations surrounding cannabis products may also have an effect on how cannabis must be stored or labeled, so remember to check for updates regularly. Keeping loose-leaf marijuana and cannabis-based products in proper airtight storage containers helps ensure you get maximum potency and health benefits.