Cannabis butter, also known as cannabutter, is a staple ingredient for those who enjoy making edibles and cannabis-infused recipes. It’s a convenient way to consume cannabis without smoking or vaping. However, one common question among users is: Does cannabis butter need to be refrigerated? In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to store cannabis butter, how long it lasts, the potential risks of improper storage, and tips to keep it fresh and potent.
What Is Cannabis Butter?
Cannabis butter is simply butter infused with THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids extracted from cannabis. It’s used to make a variety of edibles, from brownies and cookies to savory dishes. Since it’s made with regular butter as a base, it follows many of the same storage rules as traditional dairy butter.
When properly prepared, cannabis butter offers a consistent dose of cannabinoids, making it one of the most effective and versatile ways to consume cannabis. However, because of its dairy content, it requires careful storage to maintain its quality, safety, and potency.
Should Cannabis Butter Be Refrigerated?
Yes, cannabis butter should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness, potency, and safety. Here’s why:
1. Prevents Spoilage
Like regular butter, cannabis butter contains dairy and fats that can go bad if left at room temperature for too long. Refrigeration helps prevent spoilage, mold, and bacterial growth. Since butter is high in fat content, it can become rancid if not stored correctly.
2. Maintains Potency
THC and CBD degrade when exposed to heat, light, and air. Storing cannabis butter in a cool, dark place—like the fridge—helps preserve its cannabinoid content, ensuring it stays potent for longer. The loss of potency over time can impact the effectiveness of edibles, leading to inconsistent experiences.
3. Extends Shelf Life
When properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, cannabis butter can last up to four weeks. If left at room temperature, it may spoil within a few days, especially in warm climates. Refrigeration ensures the butter remains safe to consume over an extended period.
How to Store Cannabis Butter Properly
1. Refrigeration
- Use an airtight glass or plastic container to prevent contamination and odor absorption.
- Store in the back of the fridge where temperatures are more stable.
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor absorption.
- If you frequently use cannabutter, consider dividing it into smaller portions to limit exposure to air and bacteria.
2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you don’t plan to use your cannabis butter within a few weeks, freezing is the best option:
- Divide it into small portions using silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Wrap in parchment paper and store in an airtight freezer bag or container.
- Label with the date to track freshness.
- Cannabis butter can last up to six months in the freezer without losing potency.
- To use frozen cannabutter, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before use.
3. Storing at Room Temperature (Not Recommended)
Some people store cannabis butter at room temperature for short periods, but this is risky. It may become rancid, lose potency, or grow bacteria if not consumed quickly. If you must leave it out, keep it in a cool, dark place and use it within a few days.
Signs Your Cannabis Butter Has Gone Bad
To ensure safety, check for these signs of spoilage:
- Sour or rancid smell
- Mold growth or discoloration
- Odd taste
- Separation of oils (mild separation is normal, but extreme separation may indicate spoilage)
If you notice any of these signs, discard the butter immediately to avoid consuming spoiled ingredients.
Common Mistakes When Storing Cannabis Butter
1. Using a Non-Airtight Container
Cannabis butter easily absorbs odors and flavors from other foods, which can impact the taste of your edibles. Always use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
2. Storing Near a Heat Source
Leaving cannabis butter near stoves, ovens, or direct sunlight can cause it to melt and degrade its potency.
3. Not Labeling Your Butter
If you make large batches of cannabis butter and store them in the fridge or freezer, always label them with the date and potency estimate. This prevents confusion and ensures you consume it before it loses effectiveness.
How Long Does Cannabis Butter Last?
Here’s a general guideline for cannabis butter’s shelf life:
- Room Temperature: 1-2 days (not recommended)
- Refrigerator: 3-4 weeks (with proper storage)
- Freezer: Up to 6 months (best for long-term use)
To extend its lifespan, always store it properly and keep it away from heat, air, and light.
Best Ways to Use Stored Cannabis Butter
Once you’ve stored your cannabis butter properly, you can use it for a variety of delicious edibles, such as:
- Brownies, cookies, and cakes
- Pasta sauces and soups
- Homemade cannabis-infused coffee or tea
- Spreading on toast or incorporating into savory dishes
Since edibles have a delayed onset, always start with a small dose and wait at least 60–90 minutes before consuming more.
Final Thoughts
So, does cannabis butter need to be refrigerated? Yes! Keeping it in the fridge or freezer will preserve its potency, extend its shelf life, and prevent spoilage. Whether you’re making edibles for personal use or long-term storage, proper handling ensures you get the best results from your infused butter.
