How To Store Cannabis Concentrates

​For the final installment of our three-part mini-series, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at concentrate storage. Concentrates differ than that of flower and cartridges because of available short, medium, and long-term storage options. This will be the longest discussion we’ve had so far, and it will follow the same format as the flower and cartridge discussion; the best storage conditions follow by factors to consider. Although, with a twist. Storage conditions are broken up in short, medium, and long-term sections. This may be a post you return to in the future as your taste and preferences change, you experiment with different products, or whatever may be the case. 

​A state of concentrates

​Concentrates prefer a cold, dark place. Light, air, humidity, and temperature affect concentrates. Short-term and long-term options exist for frequent or occasional use. There are options for a week, a few weeks, or a few months. If you’d like to store multiple strains and/or consistencies, keep them in separate containers. Also, use an appropriately sized container for the right amount of air. 

​The many consistencies 

​Currently on the menu are live resin sauce, live resin sugar, isolate, crumble, and shatter options. Some storage techniques may be more effective for some consistencies than others. For example, parchment paper is effective in handling sticky shatter, while silicone, airtight, and glass containers are effective in storing isolates and oleoresins. Oleoresins are essentially liquid concentrates such as live resin sauce/sugar, crumble, and budder. Although, containers may not be as effective if it is see-through. Direct light can penetrate and cause moisture related issues like sizzling dabs or a cracked nail. 

​Short term storage

Silicone containers are effective for up to a week. To maximize results, the container should have minimal air space, opened as few times as possible, and stored in a cool, dark place like a cupboard. This reduces moisture development and product decay.
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For short-term parchment paper storage, separate shatter into smaller pieces and wrap each individual piece in their own parchment paper. Then set in a cool, dark place. 

​Medium term storage

A medium, 1-to-4-week, storage method for shatter includes placing the individually wrapped concentrate in a plastic freezer bag(s) i.e. Ziploc bag(s), setting the plastic freezer bag in an air tight container or in a glass jar with minimal air space when the bag is inside, and storing in a cold, dark place. A temperature-controlled environment with slightly lower than room temperature is ideal.
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Isolates and other nonstick concentrates can be placed directly in a vacuum-sealed or air tight jar and kept in a chilly, dark place. Just be aware to clean the jar in between uses. 

​Long term storage

For long-term storage, concentrates can last anywhere from six to 12 months. Refrigerators and freezers can preserve the quality your oil. However, a cold, dark place is just as effective. If frozen, vacuum-sealed containers are your best bet. For added protection, the concentrate can be placed in one or two sealed Ziploc bag(s). These methods limit humidity issues caused by extra air. The most common humidity issue is moisture development. Sizzling dabs or a cracked nail are signs of moisture development. When the time comes to use the oil, take the jar out of storage and let it reach room temperature gradually. Keep the concentrate inside the jar for this part because added air can cause humidity and moisture issues. Sudden temperature changes can ruin the concentrate and all your hard work. Once it reaches room temperature, enjoy!

That wraps up our three-part mini-series on cannabis flower, cartridge, and concentrate storage. We’d like to hear your thoughts on this in-depth concentrate storage discussion as well as on the series as a whole. Our goal is to provide high quality content that is most relevant to you and all Bentonians. By emailing us your thoughts at peter@bentodelivery.com or commenting below, we’re better able to provide products and services that fit your needs and exceed your expectations.  If you want to tell us in person stop by our booth at Hempcon September 13 - 15 at the Cow Palace in Daly City. You'll see our commitment to meaningful experiences on display.