Tips for Storing THC Chocolate Bars in the Freezer

Consuming THC or CBD edibles is a popular way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without smoking or vaping. But, just like with your favorite foods, improper storage can put a damper on the quality and taste of your favorite cannabis products.

Learning how to properly store edibles is important for preserving shelf life and prolonging their effects. From paying attention to product expiration dates to storing your edibles under ideal conditions, let's explore how you can get the most out of your cannabis gummies, baked goods, and more.

Key takeaways:

• Cannabis edibles, such as chocolates, should be stored in cool, dry environments to maintain potency.
• Proper freezing and thawing are necessary to preserve the quality of cannabis edibles.
• Proper storage methods for THC edibles include controlling surrounding temperature, using airtight containers, and paying close attention to expiration dates.

See Related: How to Identify a Hemp Plant

What are cannabis edibles?

Cannabis edibles are foods that contain cannabinoids like THC or CBD.

They have become increasingly popular over recent years for various reasons. Some of the most common weed edibles include:

• Gummies (like Delta 9 gummies)
• Chocolates
• Baked goods

While the above are the most common, virtually any food can be mixed with THC to create an edible form. For example, some cannabis users mix cannabis with butter for its versatility in cooking.

Convenient and discreet, marijuana edibles allow users to consume cannabis in a way that is virtually undetectable. This makes it easier to enjoy the health benefits associated with the cannabis plant.

Can you freeze THC chocolate bars?

If you are hoping to preserve the shelf life of your favorite THC chocolate bars, you may have wondered whether freezing can be a safe, effective method of storage.

Freezing THC chocolate is a smart way to preserve its potency. However, you will need to prepare your chocolates properly to avoid damage. Some of the most common culprits of damage during freezing are:

• Freezer burn
• Texture changes
• Moisture damage

When storing THC chocolate in the freezer, the goal is to avoid exposing it to air. Maintaining the same temperature or managing transitions in temperature gradually can also help preserve quality. 

Follow these steps to freeze your THC chocolate correctly:

1. Portion them
2. Wrap individually
3. Pre-chill in the refrigerator
4. Store in an airtight container
5. Create a label
6. Store in the back of the freezer

The above steps can minimize the chance of your chocolate losing taste and potency over time.

Bonus: Your CBD Cream Expiration Guide

Thawing frozen THC chocolate

Once you've frozen THC chocolate, it's important to thaw it properly.

So, how do you thaw THC chocolate? 

First, move the chocolate from the freezer to the refrigerator, allowing it to thaw for a period of several hours or overnight.

Once it has fully thawed, remove the container from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before unwrapping. 

Following this process helps create a gradual transition in temperature, which prevents condensation on the surface of the chocolate.

Can you freeze edibles other than chocolate?

If you are hoping to freeze edibles, there are a few things to be aware of.

For example, one of the biggest concerns when freezing edibles is the risk of freezer burn, which can alter the taste and texture of chocolate.

Abrupt changes in temperature can also impact the quality of THC-infused edibles. That's why storage methods are so important.

Storing cannabis edibles

Proper storage of your cannabis products, like cannabis edibles, can go a long way in maintaining its quality and enhancing your edible experience.

Cannabinoid degradation happens when cannabinoids become weakened due to exposure to the elements. From temperature fluctuations to air exposure and UV rays, there are various ways cannabinoid degradation can occur due to poor storage.

Dos and don'ts for the best long-term storage for edibles

Here are some helpful storage recommendations on how to store edibles in order to maintain potency, quality, and taste.

Do: store in a cool, dark place

Cannabis that has been stored properly is unlikely to lose potency before its expiration date.

The best way to help your cannabis-infused products stay fresh is to pay close attention to their surroundings. Where you store your THC edibles is crucial.

Long-term exposure to high temperatures and high heat, for example, can impact your edibles' potency.

Keeping your cannabis edibles away from direct UV light and high humidity is just one way to help it preserve its potency. A dark, cool environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, is the optimal backdrop for proper edible storage.

Do: store in an airtight container

The type of container you use to store edibles for long-term storage can have a significant effect on efficacy. Generally, keeping products in their original packaging can help preserve their potency.

Keeping your THC-infused treats in airtight, sealed containers prevents freezer burn and preserves the THC molecules in your food product. Dark glass jars can also help most edibles maintain their quality.

Another common storage method for cannabis includes vacuum-sealed bags, which use a vacuum sealer. This will extend your cannabis' shelf life and go a long way in maintaining its THC content.

Don't: ignore expiration dates

Purchase dates and expiration dates matter when it comes to storing food items, even those containing cannabis.

While cannabis products don’t carry as strict of an expiration date as perishable items, their quality and potency can degrade over time. This can occur within a period of 6-12 months. Properly stored flower can last longer than a year. 

Do: use childproof containers

Safety is paramount when storing cannabis in the home. Properly labeling items and using childproof containers if there are children in the home are vital steps when storing cannabis edibles, particularly those that may be contained in bright packaging.

When do edibles expire?

A fresh batch of cannabis edibles, like THC chocolates, can be good for up to a year when stored properly. However, exposure to outside elements can cause baked goods and other types of products to lose potency.

Purchasing your cannabis products from trusted, lab-tested sources is one of the best things you can do to ensure safe, quality products. Clean Remedies carries a wide variety of cannabis-infused edibles and other CBD products to help users reap the full health and mental benefits cannabis products may offer.

Conclusion

Proper storage of your cannabis products is a non-negotiable if you are hoping to get your money's worth. Not only can how you store edibles affect the taste, texture, and smell of your edibles, but it can also impact their effects and health benefits.

Whether you are indulging in edible gummies, chocolate, baked goods, or other store-bought edibles, taking the extra steps to store edibles properly can elevate your cannabis experience even further.

Keep Reading: Can I Use CBD and Drive?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does cold destroy THC?

Low temperatures don't typically damage THC products, but freezing can if not done properly. Cannabis flower is particularly at risk. Although some edibles can be refrigerated, flower that has been harshly exposed to freezing temperatures can become brittle and lose potency. 

How to tell if THC gummies have gone bad?

You may notice changes in texture, an unusual smell, or an off-putting taste if gummies have gone bad. Signs of spoilage may include mold or discoloration, while taste may be described as sour or stale. 

Can old edibles make you sick?

Yes, consuming expired edibles can make you sick due to the presence of bacteria, mold, or other contaminants. Signs of spoilage, including strange odors, unpleasant texture, and bad taste, can all signal that edibles may have expired. 

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