While cannabis may be used for recreation and medicine, it is also an agricultural product. It would be unrealistic to expect all parts of the supply chain to operate smoothly with only on-hand supplies and no stock of inventory to feed the incredible consumer demand. However, cultivators, processors, and even dispensaries often struggle with how to keep weed fresh for the long term or even to have space to house bulk cannabis. Therefore, wholesale cannabis storage is an important part of the supply chain.
View Storage and Warehousing Options
How to Store Cannabis Long Term
When it comes to storing cannabis for the long haul, there are a few key pillars to keep in mind. Cannabis is a natural product with a finite shelf life. However, storage conditions set the stage for exactly how long cannabis will retain its quality and freshness post-harvest and curing. Take a look at the pillars of long-term cannabis storage below.
Temperature Control
Ensuring a consistent and moderate temperature is paramount for preserving the quality of cannabis products in commercial storage settings. Temperature fluctuations can contribute to cannabinoid deterioration, terpene evaporation, and overall quality compromises. To maintain potency and freshness, store cannabis in cool, dark environments, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The ideal temperature for long-term cannabis storage tends to fall between 50 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Light Protection
Protecting cannabis from UV radiation is essential for preserving potency and terpene profiles. Light exposure can signal harvested and cured cannabis plants to continue the maturation process. Maturation brings degradation of cannabis terpenes, but can also alter the valuable cannabinoids like THC, which means potency levels can be affected by UV exposure during storage.
Humidity Regulation
Effective humidity control is essential for preventing mold growth and preserving the integrity of cannabis products over time. Utilize specialized storage solutions equipped with humidity control features or invest in high-quality airtight containers. Maintaining a relative humidity (RH) level between 59% and 63% is optimal for preserving cannabinoids and terpenes while minimizing the risk of moisture-related issues.
One of the most concerning moisture-related issues with wholesale cannabis storage is mold. Cannabis must be tested for mold contamination at several points post-harvest, and higher microbial mold counts can mean a completely lost crop.
Air Control
Minimizing oxygen exposure is critical for preserving the potency, flavor, and overall quality of cannabis during long-term storage. Some cannabis producers implement airtight packaging solutions that reduce air exchange and utilize vacuum-sealing technology for added protection. However, some more technologically advanced storage facilities utilize vacuum-pressure systems and other equipment to further thwart the risk of oxidation due to oxygen exposure.
Long-Term Cannabis Product Storage
While cannabis products may be made with processed cannabis extracts with the organic plant matter mostly eradicated, these products also have a limited shelf life. Much like cannabis flower, products like cannabis extracts, vape oils, and concentrates must be held in adequate storage conditions or their quality will deteriorate.
In general, processed cannabis products other than infused edibles tend to have a slightly longer shelf life than flower. For example, a well-processed cannabis extract may be shelf-stable for up to two years in prime storage conditions.
By contrast, cannabis edibles, which are often made with resins and extracts, tend to have a more limited expiration date. Because these products are made with food-based ingredients, the shelf stability and duration are often more determined by the food ingredients than by the cannabis extracts used in manufacturing. For example, a chocolate bar infused with cannabis extract may expire long before the extract used to make it.
Regardless of the type of cannabis product, each can have specific storage nuances that must be met to retain the quality of the product. Therefore, some businesses in the cannabis supply chain have diverse cannabis storage needs. For example, dispensary cannabis storage may require facilities with diverse storage environments to protect multiple types of products.
What to Look for in the Best Cannabis Storage Services
When you decide to partner with a cannabis storage service to help with wholesale products, several attributes should be considered. Be sure to evaluate:
- Temperature Consistency: Look for providers that prioritize maintaining stable temperatures through the use of high-grade environmental control systems. This will mean your cannabis products remain at optimal conditions for preservation and quality.
- Humidity Control: Select services equipped with industrial-grade humidity control systems to prevent mold formation and moisture-related issues.
- Effective Airflow: Choose facilities that utilize proper airflow and ventilation to maintain uniform storage conditions, prevent hot spots, and ensure consistent product quality across your inventory.
- Pest Management: Opt for providers that implement rigorous pest control measures, including regular inspections, pest-proofing infrastructure, and integrated pest management strategies.
- Security Standards: Ensure that the storage service you select adheres to strict security protocols and utilizes advanced surveillance systems, such as access control measures, perimeter fencing, and 24/7 monitoring.
Another important element to look for in the best marijuana storage services is what outlying support they can offer beyond just storage. For example, at Plymouth Armor Group, we can also help with cannabis transport and distribution services. We are also affiliated with other parts of the supply chain like testing centers and retailers that can be valuable to our clients.
Who Can Benefit from Bulk Cannabis Storage?
Most operations that make up the cannabis supply chain can benefit from bulk cannabis storage in some way. For example:
- Cultivators can store harvests securely and make room for their next harvest for curing
- Processors can store bulk product inventory until it is ready for distribution to dispensaries
- Dispensaries can buy inventory in bulk and store it to support inventory management
Partner with PAG for Wholesale Cannabis Storage
If you are considering wholesale cannabis storage as a cultivator, processor, or retailer, PAG offers cannabis warehousing solutions for all license holder types. Our 5,000-square-foot storage facility is industry-compliant, secure, and perfectly set up to protect your valuable cannabis. Reach out to discuss your cannabis storage needs.
Copyright © 2024 Plymouth Armor Group |
Site by CannaPlanners