Stability Testing

Stability testing for CBD products evaluates how potency, purity, and product quality hold up over time under defined storage conditions. For THC-free formulas, these studies are essential to support “non-detectable THC” claims through the product’s stated shelf life.

Done well, stability testing helps determine realistic expiration or “best by” dates, verifies that cannabinoids remain within acceptable ranges, and confirms that packaging and storage instructions are fit for purpose. It also provides confidence that heat, light, humidity, and routine handling won’t compromise a product before it’s used up.

This page focuses on stability testing for CBD. For broader safety topics, see our Safety & Testing overview.

What is stability testing in CBD?

Stability testing is a structured program that assesses product quality over time. CBD products are sampled at set intervals and analyzed for potency (CBD and other cannabinoids), potential THC formation or loss, and other quality attributes (microbial limits, pH, appearance, viscosity, etc.). Conditions often follow internationally recognized approaches (for example, ICH-style long-term vs. accelerated conditions) adapted to consumer products.

Why it matters for THC-free products

THC monitoring over time: THC-free products aim for non-detectable THC on Certificates of Analysis (COAs). Stability studies verify that THC remains below the lab’s limit of quantitation (LOQ) or is reported as “ND” throughout the shelf life.
Drug testing awareness: Drug tests typically screen for THC metabolites. While reputable THC-free products are designed to keep THC below LOQ, stability testing helps confirm that storage and time do not increase THC to measurable levels.
Label accuracy: Stability-supported dating helps ensure CBD potency stays within acceptable ranges until expiration or “best by.”

To interpret ND/LOQ language on reports, see How to Read COAs (Lab Reports).

Common stability study designs

Long-term (real-time)

Stores finished product at typical conditions (for example, 20–25°C/60% RH; refer to your climate and product type). Time points may include 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, with extensions as data support.

Accelerated

Uses higher stress (for example, around 40°C/75% RH) for shorter periods (often up to 6 months) to predict trends. Useful for early decisions and packaging comparisons; real-time data remain the gold standard.

Photostability and stress

Light exposure studies (per ICH-style principles) and targeted stress tests (heat, pH extremes, oxidation) help identify vulnerabilities and inform protective packaging and “store in a cool, dark place” statements.

Shipping and freeze–thaw

Simulates distribution and consumer handling. Freeze–thaw cycles and short-term temperature excursions can reveal phase separation, texture changes, or potency drift.

Packaging interactions

Assesses whether containers protect from light/oxygen and whether materials leach or adsorb cannabinoids or terpenes. Consider extractables/leachables screening when appropriate.

What to measure

Cannabinoid potency

CBD assay by validated HPLC/UPLC methods.
Profile other relevant cannabinoids (e.g., CBDV, CBG). Track degradation markers if method supports it.

THC monitoring and LOQ

Quantify delta-9 THC (and, if applicable, THCA and delta-8) at each time point.
For THC-free positioning, acceptance criteria typically require THC to remain below the lab’s LOQ (reported as ND or “< LOQ”). LOQs vary by laboratory and method.

Microbiology and preservative effectiveness

Total counts and specified pathogens where relevant to the product type.
For water-containing products (gummies, beverages, many topicals), consider preservative effectiveness testing (challenge testing) to support microbial control over shelf life.

Physical and chemical quality

Appearance, color, odor, taste/texture (as applicable).
pH (aqueous systems), viscosity/rheology (topicals), water activity (gummies), clarity (beverages), and phase stability.
Oxidative stability for oils (peroxide value, rancidity indicators) where relevant.

Contaminants

Heavy metals and pesticides typically do not “appear” over time, but confirm levels are consistently compliant.
Residual solvents for certain extracts, especially if heat or packaging could influence retention/loss in early life.

Matrix-specific considerations

Oils and tinctures

Carrier oil selection (e.g., MCT vs. plant oils) affects oxidation and viscosity. Antioxidants (like mixed tocopherols) may improve stability.
Amber or opaque bottles reduce light exposure; headspace and oxygen ingress can influence potency over time.

Gummies and chews

Water activity and moisture migration influence texture and microbial risk.
Acidic flavors and high heat during processing can affect cannabinoid stability; packaging should limit moisture and oxygen exchange.

Capsules and softgels

Shell compatibility with oils, plasticizers, and terpenes is key.
Monitor fill uniformity and potential migration into the shell.

Topicals

Emulsion stability (creams/lotions) and rheology are critical. Watch for separation, pH drift, or fragrance/terpene loss.
Preservation systems should be challenged and verified. For essential oils guidance, see Essential Oil Safety in Topicals.

Beverages

Emulsion or nanoemulsion stability, clarity/haze, and flavor over time.
pH, pasteurization/HTST effects, and container compatibility (e.g., aluminum cans with liners).

Acceptance criteria and shelf-life setting

Potency: Many brands target 90–110% of labeled CBD content through shelf life.
THC for THC-free: Remains below LOQ (ND) at all time points.
Microbial: Within established limits; preservatives remain effective where applicable.
Physical/organoleptic: No unacceptable changes.

When data support the criteria, a shelf life (expiration date) is set. Some brands use a “retest date” for bulk materials and an expiration or “best by” date for finished products. Storage statements (for example, “store in a cool, dry place away from light”) should match what was proven in studies.

How brands share stability results

Many brands summarize stability in product COAs or separate technical sheets. Look for time-point data, conditions tested, and LOQ notes for THC. For report-reading tips, see How to Read COAs (Lab Reports). For lab selection criteria, see Top Lab Testing Standards.

Practical storage tips

Keep products tightly closed, away from heat and direct sunlight.
Avoid repeated temperature swings; don’t leave items in cars or near windows.
Follow label storage instructions. If in doubt, reach out to the brand with batch and COA details.

Working with a qualified lab

Choose ISO/IEC 17025–accredited labs experienced with cannabinoids, validated methods, and clear reporting of LOD/LOQ. For broader testing guidance, visit Top Lab Testing Standards and our Safety & Testing overview.

Disclaimer

This information is for general education only and is not medical or legal advice. CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individuals subject to drug testing should consult their policies and consider products with documented THC non-detectable results across shelf life.

FAQ

Does CBD turn into THC over time?

Under normal storage and neutral formulations, CBD is not expected to convert to delta-9 THC. Stability studies verify that THC remains below the lab’s LOQ (ND) through the product’s shelf life.

How long is CBD shelf stable?

It depends on the formulation and packaging. Many properly formulated products support 12–24 months when stored as directed, but only stability data can justify a specific claim.

What’s the difference between “best by” and “expires”?

“Best by” suggests optimal quality up to that date. “Expires” indicates the product should not be used past that date. Brands choose based on their data and product category.

What should I look for in COAs regarding stability?

Look for time-point potency trends, THC reported as ND or below LOQ, and notes on test conditions. See our guide: How to Read COAs (Lab Reports).

Do gummies and beverages need special testing?

Yes. Water-containing products often need preservative effectiveness testing, water activity checks, and careful monitoring of emulsion stability.

Summary

Stability testing CBD products confirms that potency, THC-free status, and overall quality hold up under real-world storage. Robust study designs, validated analytics, and packaging matched to the product’s needs support accurate expiration dating and consumer confidence. For a broader foundation, see our Safety & Testing hub.

Explore carefully formulated THC-free products supported by third-party testing at CannaGea THC-Free.