Introduction
Cannabinoid stability is one of the most important — and misunderstood — aspects of hemp product manufacturing. Even when starting with high-quality ingredients, factors like light, oxygen, temperature, and pH can impact:
- Potency
- Color
- Flavor
- Shelf life
- COA results
- Product performance
This guide breaks down the underlying chemistry and how manufacturers can build stable, long-lasting products with confidence.
🌞 1. Light (UV Exposure)
What it does:
UV light can break down cannabinoids and accelerate oxidation.
Effects:
- CBD → breakdown into unknowns
- THC → CBN (in THC-containing extracts)
- Color darkening
- Loss of terpene profile
Prevention:
- Use amber or opaque containers
- Avoid clear stock bottles for bulk distillates
- Store away from direct sunlight
- Use UV-blocking secondary packaging when needed
🌬 2. Oxygen (Oxidative Stress)
Oxygen is the most common cause of cannabinoid degradation.
Effects:
- Oxidation of lipids in topicals
- Terpene evaporation
- Off-odors
- Potency drift
- Rancidity in oils
Prevention:
- Nitrogen flush bulk containers
- Use antioxidants like tocopherols
- Ensure tight seals on jars/pouches
- Avoid headspace in bottles during filling
🔥 3. Heat (Thermal Stress)
Cannabinoids are sensitive to extended high heat.
CBD begins degrading at: ~160–180°C
Terpenes begin evaporating at: 60–140°C
Effects:
- Color shift
- Bitter notes
- Changes in viscosity
- Potency loss
Prevention:
- Maintain manufacturing temps below 120°F when possible
- Avoid high-temp holding tanks
- Fill products once cooled
⚖️ 4. pH (Acid/Base Environment)
Many manufacturers overlook how pH influences cannabinoid stability.
Stable Zone: pH 5–7
At pH below 3 or above 8:
- Cannabinoid isomerization increases
- Terpenes degrade
- Color darkens
- Nanoemulsions destabilize
Control Methods:
- Use citrates to stabilize pH
- Test pH during formulation
- Buffer beverages and topicals
5. Packaging’s Role in Stability
Best-in-class packaging includes:
- Multi-layer barrier films
- Amber glass
- Airless pumps for cosmetics
- Foil-lined pouches
- Heat-sealed moisture barriers
6. Conducting Proper Stability Studies
To validate shelf life:
Test at:
- 25°C / 60% RH (real time)
- 40°C / 75% RH (accelerated aging)
Evaluate:
- Potency
- Microbial safety
- Appearance
- Texture
- Odor
- pH
- Water activity (if applicable)
Document results for retailer confidence.
Final Thoughts
When manufacturers understand cannabinoid stability, they build products that perform consistently, retain potency, and maintain consumer trust.
With high-quality inputs and controlled processing, hemp products can achieve excellent shelf-life performance.
