Terpenes play a vital role in the overall cannabis experience, contributing to both the aromatics and the effects of products. Whether incorporated into flower, concentrates, or infused products, maintaining terpene potency is essential to ensure quality. However, terpenes are volatile compounds, and improper storage can lead to degradation, impacting both flavor profiles and product performance.
In this post, we’ll look at how to preserve terpene potency, highlight optimal storage methods, and explore how environmental factors can impact the shelf life of terpene products. Drawing on insights from Terpene Belt Farms, we’ll provide best practices to extend terpene preservation and help maintain the quality and value of your products.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a fascinating class of naturally occurring chemical compounds found in a variety of plants, including the cannabis plant. These aromatic compounds are responsible for the unique scents, flavors, and even colors of different plant species. Structurally, terpenes are composed of isoprene units, which link together to form complex chains and rings. Beyond their sensory appeal, terpenes play a crucial role in plant defense mechanisms, attracting pollinators while repelling predators.
In the cannabis industry, terpenes are gaining significant attention not just for their aromatic qualities but also for their potential medicinal properties. These compounds can enhance the effects of cannabinoids, contributing to the overall therapeutic profile of cannabis products. As research continues, the role of terpenes in the medicinal and recreational cannabis markets is becoming increasingly prominent.
Types of Terpenes
Terpenes come in various types, each with unique characteristics and benefits. Monoterpenes, composed of two isoprene units, are commonly found in the essential oils of plants like lavender and rosemary. These terpenes are known for their potent aromas and potential therapeutic effects. Sesquiterpenes, which consist of three isoprene units, are found in plants such as chamomile and sandalwood, contributing to their rich, complex scents. Diterpenes, made up of four isoprene units, are present in plants like pine and spruce, adding to their distinctive, resinous aromas. Each type of terpene plays a crucial role in the plant’s overall profile and potential benefits.
Terpene Biosynthesis and Production
The production of terpenes in the cannabis plant is a sophisticated process involving two primary pathways: the mevalonate (MVA) pathway and the non-mevalonate (MEP) pathway. These biochemical routes generate the essential building blocks of terpenes, namely dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP) and isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP). Within the plant, specialized enzymes known as terpene synthases utilize these building blocks to synthesize a diverse array of terpenes.
The concentration and composition of terpenes in cannabis can vary widely, influenced by factors such as the specific cannabis strain, growing conditions, and harvesting methods. Understanding these variables is crucial for producers aiming to cultivate cannabis plants with desired terpene profiles, whether for medicinal, recreational, or industrial purposes.
How Long Do Terpenes Last?
Terpene shelf life varies based on storage conditions. Different cannabis strains may have varying terpene longevity based on their unique chemical profiles. When stored correctly—kept cool, away from light, and sealed—terpene products can retain their potency for up to two years or more. In less controlled environments, however, terpenes may degrade within a few weeks or months. For maximum potency, products should be stored and used efficiently.
Understanding the Shelf Life of Terpenes
The shelf life of terpenes depends on various factors, including temperature, light exposure, and air contact. These factors can cause cannabis terpenes to degrade, reducing the intensity of flavor and aroma over time. Proper storage is key to maintaining potency, ensuring that the product’s unique profile remains intact throughout its lifecycle.
Factors that Impact Terpene Potency
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Light Exposure
Direct light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, causes terpenes to degrade rapidly. This process, known as photodegradation, breaks down the molecular structure of terpenes, leading to loss of potency and aroma.
Recommendation: To limit light exposure, store terpene products in dark, opaque containers.
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Temperature Fluctuations
Terpenes, as secondary metabolites, are highly sensitive to temperature changes. High temperatures can cause the terpenes to evaporate, while fluctuating temperatures can degrade the chemical integrity of the oils.
Recommendation: Keep terpene products in a temperature-controlled environment, ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C). For long-term storage, refrigeration can further slow degradation as long as containers are airtight to prevent moisture buildup.
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Oxygen Exposure
Oxygen exposure promotes oxidation, a chemical reaction that breaks down terpenes over time. Oxidation not only affects potency but also alters the flavor and aroma profile.
Recommendation: Use airtight containers to prevent oxidation and, where possible, purge the headspace with inert gas (like nitrogen or argon) before sealing the container.
Best Practices for Storing Terpenes
To maintain the potency of terpenes and essential oils, follow these storage guidelines:
- Dark, cool environments: Store terpenes away from light and heat sources to slow degradation. A dark cupboard or refrigerator is ideal for long-term storage.
- Use airtight containers: Prevent exposure to air by using sealed glass containers or stainless-steel vessels with airtight lids.
- Limit container openings: Repeatedly opening and closing containers introduces oxygen, which accelerates oxidation. Use terpene oils in batches to minimize exposure.
For additional storage techniques and product-specific guidance, visit our R&D Product Formulation Guides library here. These resources offer detailed insights on maintaining potency for cannabis flower, concentrates, and more.
How Temperature Impacts Terpene Products
Temperature is a critical factor in terpene preservation. Maintaining a stable temperature is crucial for preserving terpene concentration and ensuring product quality. High temperatures accelerate evaporation, diminishing the oil’s aroma and effect. Conversely, lower temperatures slow the degradation process, extending the shelf life. However, storing terpenes below freezing isn’t always ideal, as it can lead to condensation or moisture buildup when containers are opened.
Maintaining Potency and Value with Proper Storage
Preserving cannabis terpenes isn’t just about maintaining flavor; it’s about ensuring the quality of your product and the experience you deliver to consumers. Whether used in flower, pre-rolls, concentrates, or vape products, terpene-rich products that maintain their original profiles stand out in the market. Proper storage practices help maintain these profiles and ensure consistent, high-quality results with every batch.
By following best practices and consulting our R&D Product Formulation Guides, you can implement storage solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Access our library for detailed storage and formulation strategies: R&D Product Formulation Guides.
Preserving Terpenes in Cannabis Products
Cannabis flower, concentrates, and other products rely on terpene preservation to retain their unique flavors and distinct effects. In cannabis, preserving terpenes is crucial for maintaining the plant’s therapeutic and recreational benefits. As you can read in our previous blog post, the loss of terpenes affects both aroma and effectiveness, diminishing the overall experience.
To mitigate terpene loss, some producers enhance flower post-harvest using NEU Bag Infusion Packs—a precise, controlled hemp terpene infusion solution available through Terpene Belt Farms. These infusion methods allow cultivators to restore aroma, flavor, and effect to aging or improperly stored flower. For concentrate producers, our Fresh Never Frozen® terpene oils help maintain consistent flavor profiles throughout the product line.
Using Terpenes Efficiently: Tips for Producers
To optimize terpene use and maintain potency, consider the following:
- Bring terpene oils to ambient temperature before use: Taking terpene oils directly from cold storage to formulation can affect consistency. Allow terpene oils to reach room temperature before blending. Monoterpenes, which consist of two isoprene units, are particularly sensitive to environmental factors and require careful handling.
- Formulate in full batches: Open terpene oil vessels only when necessary. Using a full batch at once reduces exposure to oxygen and preserves potency.
- Purge with inert gas: After using the terpene oil, purge the headspace of containers with nitrogen or argon before sealing to reduce oxidation risks.
Implementing these strategies ensures your products retain their unique profiles and therapeutic benefits.
Access Expert Insights with Our R&D Guides
To develop effective terpene storage and infusion strategies, explore our R&D Product Formulation Guides here. Our library offers practical solutions for a wide range of applications, including:
- Cannabis Concentrates Formulation Guide R&D
- Vape Formulation Guide R&D
- Flower Infusion Formulation Guide R&D
- Crumble Formulation Guide R&D
- Best Practices Vendor Evaluation
- Pre-Roll Formulation Guide R&D
These resources provide detailed storage recommendations and product formulation that can help you maintain potency, reduce terpene loss, and maximize product value.
FAQ
Do terpenes have a shelf life?
Yes, terpenes have a shelf life, which depends on storage conditions and the specific terpene profile. When stored properly in airtight containers away from light and a temperature-controlled environment, terpenes can last from a few months to several years but will eventually degrade, losing both potency and aroma.
How do you preserve terpenes? How do you prevent terpenes from evaporating?
To prevent terpene evaporation, store cannabis buds and cannabis extracts in airtight containers, avoid exposing them to heat and direct sunlight, and refrigerate them for added preservation. Nitrogen-flushed containers also work well for reducing oxygen exposure, helping to maintain volatile terpene levels. NEU Bag Infusion Packs are also an excellent option for terpene preservation!
How long does it take for terpenes to degrade?
Terpene degradation varies by factors like storage conditions and exposure to light, heat, or oxygen. Proper storage can retain terpene content for several months to years, but under less ideal conditions, terpenes degrade much faster, affecting both potency and aroma.
What happens to terpenes over time? Can terpenes expire?
Over time, terpenes undergo chemical changes, losing potency and aroma and even changing in flavor. Oxidation and exposure to heat or light can cause terpene degradation, transforming them into other compounds, especially if stored improperly.