Do THC Drinks Need Refrigeration? Storage & Shelf Life Guide

Published on Feb 13, 2026 • Reviewed & Updated on Feb 13, 2026 by Lindsey Goldstein

Mellow Fellow Blue Raspberry THC Seltzer

Quick Answer: Most THC drinks benefit from refrigeration after opening to maintain freshness and potency. Unopened canned or bottled THC beverages are typically shelf stable for 6-12 months when stored in a cool, dark place, but refrigeration extends their quality window and prevents degradation of cannabinoids and flavor compounds.

You just bought a pack of THC-infused seltzers, and now you're wondering where to store them. The label might say "best if refrigerated," but does that mean they'll spoil without it? Between cannabinoid degradation, flavor shifts, and safety concerns, storing cannabis beverages correctly matters if you want consistent effects and fresh taste. This guide covers shelf life windows, proper storage methods, signs of spoilage, and how to keep your THC drinks at peak quality from purchase to the last sip.

Key Takeaways

Unopened THC drinks last 6-12 months in a cool, dark pantry.
.Refrigeration after opening extends freshness to 3-7 days for most beverages
Heat above 77°F accelerates THC degradation, with studies showing 15% potency loss after 90 days at 86°F.
Research on cannabis storage demonstrates that samples at 4°C remain relatively stable with less than 25% degradation over 210 days.
Mellow Fellow's nano-emulsified Delta 9 seltzers stay fresh longer when refrigerated and deliver effects in under 15 minutes.

Do Cannabis Drinks Expire?

Yes, cannabis drinks do expire, though the timeline depends on formulation, packaging, and storage conditions. Most commercially produced THC beverages carry a "best by" date that reflects when the manufacturer expects optimal flavor and potency, not necessarily when the product becomes unsafe to consume.

Cannabinoid Degradation

Cannabinoids like Delta 9 THC and CBD are relatively stable compounds, but they degrade when exposed to oxygen, heat, and UV light. Research published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences examined cannabinoid stability in dried cannabis over temperatures from -20°C to +40°C for up to one year, finding that temperature significantly affects degradation rates.

For nano-emulsified beverages, which use smaller cannabinoid particles for faster onset, oxidation happens more quickly once the seal is broken because of increased surface area. These advanced formulations deliver effects faster but require careful storage to maintain potency.

What Affects THC Drink Shelf Life?

Beyond cannabinoid stability, other ingredients matter too. Natural fruit juices, botanical extracts, and low-pH formulations can separate or develop off-flavors as conditions change. Understanding how long THC drinks stay fresh helps you time your purchases and avoid wasting money on flat, weak, or sour beverages.

Packaging type (aluminum cans block light better than glass)
Carbonation (helps preserve pH balance)
Preservative content (natural vs synthetic)
Storage temperature (cool environments slow degradation)
Light exposure (UV accelerates THC breakdown)

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Shelf Life of THC Beverages: How Long Do THC Drinks Last?

The shelf life of a THC drink varies based on whether it's been opened, how it's stored, and what type of container it comes in. Canned seltzers generally last longer than glass-bottled juices because aluminum blocks light completely, and the carbonation helps preserve pH balance.

Storage Condition	Unopened Shelf Life	Opened Shelf Life
Room temperature (68-75°F)	6-9 months	1-2 days
Cool pantry (55-65°F)	9-12 months	2-3 days
Refrigerated (35-40°F)	12-18 months	5-7 days
Frozen (0°F or below)	Not recommended*	Not applicable

*Freezing can cause carbonated drinks to expand and burst, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles may damage emulsions.

Temperature Effects on Cannabinoid Stability

A study on cannabis trim storage found that samples held at 4°C remained relatively stable with less than 25% degradation until 210 days, regardless of jar storage type. At higher temperatures of 30°C, the most rapid degradation occurred, with the largest declines happening in the first 30 days.

According to research on THC stability in polymer matrices, THC content remaining after 12 months at 25°C was only 63.8%.

How to Store THC Drinks Properly

Proper storage protects both safety and potency. The goal is to minimize exposure to heat, light, and oxygen while maintaining a stable environment that prevents microbial growth.

Proper Storage Tips for Cannabis Beverages

Here’s how to store your cannabis beverages.

Light Protection

Store beverages away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting
Keep in original packaging or opaque containers
Avoid clear glass storage if transferring liquids

Temperature Control

Maintain consistent cool temperatures (35-70°F depending on opened/unopened status)
Avoid storing near heat sources like ovens, dishwashers, or heating vents
Use refrigerator interior shelves rather than door compartments

Handling Best Practices

Store upright to prevent leaks and maintain carbonation pressure in sealed cans
Label opened beverages with the date so you remember to finish them within 5-7 days
Transfer any leftover liquid to an airtight glass container if the original seal is compromised
Wipe down cans or bottles if condensation develops to prevent label damage

For long-term storage of multiple beverages, consider dedicating a section of your fridge to THC products. This prevents cross-contamination with strong-smelling foods and keeps everything organized. If you're curious about how cannabinoid formulations affect onset and duration, check out our guide on nano edibles duration and dosage tips.

Mellow Fellow's Delta 9 THC Seltzers: Built for Freshness

Mellow Fellow's Delta 9 THC + CBD seltzer lineup uses nano-emulsification technology to deliver fast-acting effects in under 15 minutes. Each 12 oz can contains 10mg of hemp-derived Delta 9 THC and 10mg of CBD, formulated with natural flavors and zero added sugar. The nano-emulsified cannabinoids remain stable longer when refrigerated, making these ideal for stocking your fridge without worrying about rapid potency loss.

Current Flavor Lineup

Blackberry Lemon - Tart and bright, perfect for afternoon unwinding with 20mg Delta 9 THC + 20mg CBD
Blue Raspberry - Sweet and smooth with balanced cannabinoid effects
Pineapple Orange - Tropical and uplifting, great for social settings
Strawberry Mango - Fruity and mellow, ideal for evening relaxation

Variety Pack: For variety, the 12-count variety pack includes three cans of each flavor, letting you sample the full range while maintaining consistent 20mg dosing across every beverage. Read our comparison guide to see which beverage brand is the best.

Do THC Drinks Go Bad? Signs of Spoilage

Even with proper storage, THC drinks can eventually go bad. Spoilage typically shows up through changes in appearance, smell, taste, or texture rather than visible mold growth, though mold can occur in beverages with high organic content left open too long.

How to Tell if a THC Drink Is Expired

Visual Indicators

Flat carbonation (loss of fizz in seltzers)
Color shift (darkening or fading)
Visible separation or layering
Floating particles or sediment
Cloudiness in previously clear beverages

Sensory Warning Signs

Off odors (sour, fermented, or musty smells)
Unusual taste (metallic, bitter, or overly sour flavor)
Texture changes (slimy or thick consistency)

Seal Integrity

Bulging cans (sign of bacterial gas production)
Compromised packaging
Leaking containers

Can THC Drinks Be Left Out?

Leaving an unopened THC drink out at room temperature for a day or two won't ruin it, but extended exposure to heat accelerates degradation. If you forget a six-pack on the counter overnight in a 70°F room, the drinks are still safe to consume, though you may notice slightly weaker effects if this becomes a habit over weeks.

For Unopened Beverages

Safe at room temperature (68-75°F) for 6-9 months
Heat above 77°F accelerates cannabinoid breakdown
Light exposure compounds degradation effects
Periodic temperature fluctuations stress the formula

For Opened Beverages: Once opened, the risk changes significantly. Research on beverage safety indicates that soft drinks and fruit juices are highly susceptible to microbial contamination. Lactic acid bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Leuconostoc, can grow in beverages containing fruit juices when sufficient nutrients are present, especially at room temperature.

For tips on how temperature affects cannabinoid delivery and onset, read our guide on best time to take edibles, which covers principles that apply to beverages as well - or specifically, read our guide on THC drink onset time and duration.

Can You Freeze THC Drinks?

Freezing THC drinks is not recommended for several practical reasons that can compromise both safety and quality.

Why Freezing Causes Problems

Carbonated beverages expand when frozen, causing cans to burst
Glass bottles can crack from ice expansion
Even if containers survive, carbonation is lost upon thawing
Flat beverages provide a less enjoyable drinking experience

Chemical Stability Issues: Freezing and thawing disrupts nano-emulsions. The tiny cannabinoid particles that give THC drinks their fast onset rely on stable suspension in liquid. When frozen, these particles can clump together or separate, leading to uneven dosing. You might end up with a strong sip at the top and a weak one at the bottom after thawing.

Quality Degradation

Juice-based THC drinks develop ice crystals that dilute taste
Botanical extracts may precipitate out of solution
Texture becomes grainy or watery after thawing
Flavor profile significantly diminishes

Alternative Long-Term Storage

If you absolutely must store beverages long-term and lack fridge space, a cool basement or cellar at 50-60°F is a better choice than a freezer. This temperature range slows degradation without the structural damage that freezing causes.

Intentional Freezing for Consumption

That said, some consumers freeze non-carbonated THC drinks intentionally to make slushies or popsicles. If you choose to do this:

Pour beverage into flexible silicone mold or freezer-safe container
Leave room for expansion (at least 20% headspace)
Stir well after partial thawing to redistribute cannabinoids
Consume immediately after reaching desired consistency

Looking for alternative ways to consume THC that don't require careful temperature management? Check out our guide on strongest disposable vapes for 420 for options that remain stable at room temperature.

Refrigerating THC Drinks

THC drinks are convenient and enjoyable, but their freshness, potency, and safety all depend on proper storage. Keeping unopened beverages in a cool, dark place preserves shelf life for months, while refrigerating after opening protects flavor, carbonation, and cannabinoid stability for the best overall experience. Avoid heat, light, and freezing to prevent degradation or uneven dosing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do THC Drinks Expire in the Fridge?

Yes, THC drinks eventually expire even when refrigerated, though the timeline extends significantly compared to room-temperature storage. Unopened beverages in the fridge can last 12-18 months before potency and flavor decline noticeably. Opened drinks should be consumed within 5-7 days to avoid bacterial growth and loss of carbonation. The refrigeration slows but doesn't completely stop the natural degradation processes that affect all cannabis beverages.

Can You Drink Expired THC Beverages?

Drinking an expired THC beverage past its "best by" date is generally safe if it shows no signs of spoilage like off odors, mold, or separation. However, the THC content may have degraded by 10-20%, meaning you'll experience weaker effects than intended. Always inspect the drink carefully for changes in color, smell, taste, or texture. Trust your senses before consuming, and discard any beverage that seems questionable.

Are THC Drinks Shelf Stable?

Most commercially produced THC drinks are shelf stable when unopened and stored in a cool, dark place. Canned seltzers and bottled beverages with preservatives can last 6-12 months at room temperature without refrigeration. Once opened, they lose shelf stability and require refrigeration to prevent spoilage and maintain potency. The shelf stability depends on packaging type, with aluminum cans offering better light protection than glass bottles.

Do THC Seltzers Need Refrigeration?

THC seltzers don't require refrigeration while unopened and sealed, but chilling them preserves carbonation, flavor, and cannabinoid stability for a longer period. Most can be stored in a cool pantry for 6-9 months. After opening, refrigeration is necessary to keep the beverage fresh for 3-5 days and prevent bacterial growth in the liquid. The carbonation also holds better in cold temperatures.

How Long Do THC Drinks Last After Opening?

Opened THC drinks last 5-7 days in the refrigerator for most formulations. Carbonated seltzers maintain quality for 3-5 days, while non-carbonated juices or teas may stay fresh for up to a week. Always reseal the container tightly and check for signs of spoilage before drinking. Factors like pH, sugar content, and preservatives affect the exact timeline, with lower pH and higher preservative content extending shelf life.

Do THC Drinks Spoil After Opening?

Yes, opened THC drinks can spoil due to exposure to air, bacteria, and temperature fluctuations. Spoilage manifests as off odors, sour taste, flat carbonation, visible separation, or color changes. To prevent this, refrigerate opened beverages immediately, seal tightly, and consume them within a week. The natural sugars and flavorings in THC beverages provide nutrients that bacteria can feed on, especially at warmer temperatures.

What Happens if THC Drinks Are Not Refrigerated?

If THC drinks remain unrefrigerated for extended periods, cannabinoid degradation accelerates, potency drops, and flavor compounds break down. Unopened drinks stored at room temperature will still last 6-9 months but with faster quality decline than refrigerated options. Opened drinks left out at room temperature for more than 4-6 hours can develop bacterial growth, especially in beverages with natural ingredients and lower acidity levels. Heat above 77°F significantly speeds all degradation processes.

How to Store THC Drinks Long Term?

For long-term storage, keep unopened THC drinks in a refrigerator set to 35-40°F, away from light and strong-smelling foods. Store cans and bottles upright to prevent leaks and maintain carbonation. Rotate your stock to use older beverages first based on purchase or "best by" dates. Avoid freezing, which can damage emulsions and packaging. If refrigerator space is limited, a cool, dark basement or cellar at 50-60°F provides acceptable alternative storage for unopened beverages.

Do Canned THC Drinks Need Refrigeration?

Canned THC drinks are shelf stable when unopened and can be stored in a cool pantry for 6-9 months without issue. Refrigeration extends this to 12-18 months and better preserves carbonation and cannabinoid potency. The aluminum cans provide excellent protection from light, which is one of the primary factors in cannabinoid degradation. Once you crack the seal, refrigerate the can immediately and finish it within 3-5 days for best quality.

Should You Refrigerate THC Infused Drinks?

Refrigerating THC-infused drinks is strongly recommended after opening to maintain freshness and prevent microbial growth. While unopened beverages can sit at room temperature safely for months, refrigeration slows cannabinoid degradation and preserves the intended flavor profile. This is especially important for products with natural ingredients, low preservative content, or nano-emulsified formulations. Cold storage also maintains carbonation in seltzers and prevents separation in beverages with complex ingredient profiles.

How Long Are THC Drinks Good for Refrigerated?

Refrigerated THC drinks stay good for 12-18 months when unopened, depending on the formulation and packaging type. Canned seltzers typically last longest, while juice-based drinks have shorter windows. After opening, they remain safe and effective for 5-7 days if resealed properly and kept consistently cold. Check the "best by" date on the label as a starting reference, and monitor for any signs of spoilage throughout the storage period such as changes in taste, smell, or appearance.

Do Cannabis Drinks Expire?

Cannabis drinks do expire, typically showing a "best by" date that indicates when optimal potency and flavor will decline. Unopened beverages stored correctly can last 6-18 months depending on storage temperature and packaging, while opened ones should be consumed within a week. Cannabinoid degradation, ingredient breakdown, and potential microbial growth eventually make older drinks less effective and less enjoyable. Proper storage significantly extends usable life but doesn't prevent expiration indefinitely.