Pre Rolled Joint Longevity: Shelf Life Explained

Pre rolled joints, often called "pre rolls," have become a convenient choice for cannabis consumers seeking a hassle-free smoking experience. Understanding the shelf life of pre rolled joints is crucial for ensuring their quality and potency over time. 

Many users wonder, "How long will a pre rolled joint last?" Join us as we delve into this question and explore the factors influencing the longevity of pre rolls, plus some tips on how to keep pre rolls fresh for as long as possible.

Table of Contents
How Long Will a Pre-Rolled Joint Last?
Factors Affecting Pre-Rolled Joint Longevity
Tips for Extending Pre-Rolled Joint Longevity
Conclusion
Where to Buy Hemp THC Flower and More

Key Takeaways

• Pre-rolled joints can last months if stored properly.
• Air and heat exposure will accelerate degradation.
• Some hemp products, like delta-8 flower, may be more shelf stable than traditional cannabis products. 

How Long Will a Pre-Rolled Joint Last?

On average, a properly stored pre rolled joint can last anywhere from a few months to over a year. However, this timeframe can vary depending on several factors, including storage conditions, cannabis quality, packaging, and humidity levels. 

Improper storage can ruin a pre-roll in as little as a week (or instantly if it's exposed to moisture). But, that doesn't have to be the case, because you can store your pre-rolls properly and they will stay fresh for longer than you’ll wait to smoke them. 

What Happens When a PreRoll Gets Old?

The general guideline above refers to how long the preroll will retain its state, including its fragrance, flavor, and terpene and cannabinoid potency. However, if you’re familiar with high-THC cannabis, you know that fresh cannabis flower degrades and potency can be lost over time. That’s because Delta-9 degrades into CBN, a cannabinoid that may make you sleepy and relaxed, but not high.

You’ll be happy to know that it happens slowly (if cannabis is stored properly).

According to research, cannabis loses about 16 percent of its THC content after one year of storage. This loss increases to 26 percent after two years, 34 percent after three years, and 41 percent after four years. 

Here’s some math to put that into perspective:

For bud with 20% THC, one gram contains 200 milligrams of THC. A single, half-gram joint then contains 100 milligrams of THC. After one whole year at 16% degradation, it now contains 84 grams of THC. So, some potency is definitely lost, but after an entire year, 84 milligrams of THC is not so bad. 

Now, let's explore these factors in detail to better understand how they impact the shelf life of pre rolled joints.

Factors Affecting Pre Rolled Joint Longevity

Storage Conditions

Proper storage is paramount for maintaining the freshness and potency of pre rolled joints. 

Store them in a cool, dark place away from light, heat, and moisture. This helps prevent the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes, preserving the overall quality of the product. Read “How to Store Delta-8-THC” to learn more. 

Cannabis Quality

The quality of the cannabis used in pre rolls significantly influences their shelf life. High-quality flower that has been properly cured and dried will generally last longer compared to lower-quality cannabis or cannabis that was already old at the time of rolling. Avoid pre rolls with signs of mold, pests, or other contaminants, as these can accelerate degradation.

Packaging

The type of packaging used for pre rolled joints can impact their longevity. Look for products that come in airtight containers or sealed pouches to minimize exposure to air and moisture. This helps preserve freshness and prevents the cannabis from drying out too quickly.

Humidity Levels

Maintaining the right humidity levels is crucial for preventing mold growth and preserving the quality of pre rolled joints. Using humidity packs or storage containers with built-in humidity control can help regulate moisture levels and extend the shelf life of pre rolls.

Tips for Extending Pre Rolled Joint Longevity

• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep pre rolled joints in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or drawer to protect them from light and heat.
• Use Airtight Containers: Transfer pre rolls to airtight containers or resealable bags to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
• Avoid Excessive Handling: Handle pre rolled joints gently and avoid excessive touching, as this can cause damage and accelerate degradation.
• Check for Mold:Regularly inspect pre rolls for any signs of mold or mildew growth, especially if they have been stored in humid conditions.
• Consume Within a Reasonable Timeframe: While pre rolled joints can last for months when properly stored, it's best to consume them within a reasonable timeframe to ensure optimal freshness and potency.
• Opt for Delta-8: Delta-8-THC flower is a legal hemp product that's easily available online. Delta-8 is similar to Delta-9, but it is more shelf stable, meaning that Delta-8 pre-rolls will last longer than traditional marijuana joints. 

Conclusion

The shelf life of a pre rolled joint can vary depending on factors such as storage conditions, cannabis quality, packaging, and humidity levels. On average, a well-maintained pre rolled joint can last several months to over a year.

However, proper storage and handling are essential for maximizing longevity and preserving the quality of the product. By following these tips, cannabis enthusiasts can enjoy a high-quality smoking experience every time.

Looking for Hemp THC Flower and Edibles?

If you’re looking for hemp THC products with a great shelf life, look no further than our Elev8 Delta-8-THC and Cloud9 Delta-9-THC Collections.

Every Vida Optima product is made from premium quality, organic hemp and is third-party tested for label accuracy, all in resealable, easy store containers. So, feel free to stock up on our long-lasting sublingual edibles, HHC vapes, Delta-8-THC flower, and more.