When consumers reach for a hemp beverage, freshness and potency are often top of mind. Like any consumable product, these drinks don’t last forever, and understanding their shelf life helps shoppers make smarter choices at the dispensary or grocery store.

Hemp beverages are typically crafted with hemp extract, botanical flavors, sweeteners, and functional ingredients like adaptogens or vitamins. While these components may be stable on their own, once blended into a liquid product, time and storage conditions begin to influence quality. Manufacturers usually print a “best by” date on bottles or cans, which generally ranges from six months to a year depending on packaging and formulation.

The question many consumers ask is whether hemp beverages lose their potency. The answer lies in how cannabinoids interact with air, light, and temperature. Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp-derived compounds are sensitive to environmental stress. Over time, exposure to heat or direct sunlight can degrade cannabinoids, slowly diminishing their effectiveness. That doesn’t mean the drink becomes unsafe right away, but the desired calming or balancing effects may not feel as strong months after the suggested date.

Another consideration is flavor and freshness. Even if cannabinoids remain present, taste can decline. Natural flavorings, especially fruit essences or plant extracts, break down more quickly than synthetic additives. A hemp beverage that once had a crisp citrus note might taste dull or slightly off if it sits in the back of a fridge for too long. Carbonated hemp seltzers may also lose their fizz if cans or bottles are not sealed tightly over time.

Packaging plays a key role in extending shelf life. Cans provide excellent protection against light and oxygen, two of the main culprits in cannabinoid degradation. Glass bottles can be effective as well, provided they are tinted to reduce light exposure. Plastic packaging, while lightweight, may not offer the same barrier properties, which could lead to faster declines in quality.

Proper storage helps consumers get the most out of their hemp drinks. Keeping them in a cool, dark place—ideally refrigerated—slows down the breakdown of cannabinoids and preserves flavor. Leaving a beverage in a hot car, on the other hand, can shorten its useful life dramatically.

While potency and flavor gradually decline, hemp beverages don’t usually “go bad” in the way dairy or perishable foods do. Once past their best-by date, they may simply deliver less noticeable effects and a flatter taste. Still, most shoppers prefer to enjoy them while they’re fresh for maximum benefit and enjoyment.

In short, hemp beverages are best consumed within their recommended shelf life to experience the full potency, flavor, and intended effect. By paying attention to packaging, storage, and expiration dates, consumers can make sure their hemp drink is as effective and refreshing as the day it was made.