CBD sleep drinks don’t last forever, even if they look fine sitting in the fridge door. Understanding how long they stay fresh and effective helps consumers get the most from every can or bottle—and avoid drinking something that’s lost its punch.
How long do CBD sleep drinks typically last?
Most CBD drinks, including sleep formulas, carry a “best by” or “use by” date printed on the can or bottle. For unopened products, that’s usually 6–18 months from the production date, depending on factors like preservatives, packaging, and whether they’re shelf-stable or refrigerated after purchase.
That date isn’t just about taste—it’s also about CBD potency and microbial safety. Studies show that CBD can degrade over time when exposed to light, heat, and oxygen, which means the longer a drink sits, the more its cannabinoid content can slowly drop.
Once opened, most beverage makers recommend consuming within 24–72 hours if the drink is kept refrigerated, both for flavor and safety. If the drink sits out at room temperature after opening, the safe window can be much shorter.
Factors that influence how fast CBD sleep drinks go bad
1. Packaging type
- Cans and opaque bottles protect CBD from light, which helps slow down degradation.
- Clear bottles allow more light exposure, which may reduce CBD potency faster over time.
2. Storage temperature
CBD and other cannabinoids remain more stable at cool, consistent temperatures. Excess heat speeds up chemical breakdown and can affect flavor and terpene content.
3. Ingredients beyond CBD
CBD sleep drinks often contain botanicals (chamomile, lemon balm, valerian), melatonin, or magnesium. These ingredients have their own stability profiles, and natural flavorings or sweeteners can change over time. If the drink is low in preservatives, it may have a shorter shelf life than conventional sodas or energy drinks.
4. Opened vs unopened
Once opened, air and potential contaminants (like from drinking directly from the can) increase the risk of spoilage. Even if the CBD hasn’t fully degraded, the beverage can still go bad in a food-safety sense.
Signs a CBD sleep drink may have gone bad
Consumers should trust their senses:
- Off or sour smell
- Unusual color changes
- Fizz or bubbling in a non-carbonated drink
- Strange or bitter taste that wasn’t there before
- Bulging can or bottle, which can indicate microbial activity
If anything seems off, the safest move is to discard the drink rather than risk getting sick—even if the date hasn’t passed yet.
Potency vs safety
There are two timelines to keep in mind:
- Safety timeline – how long the drink is safe to consume from a microbiological standpoint (guided by the date and storage).
- Potency timeline – how long the CBD stays close to its labeled strength.
CBD may begin to lose some potency before the drink is technically “unsafe,” especially if it’s been exposed to heat or light. That means a very old but unopened can might not deliver the same sleep-supporting effect the consumer expects.
How consumers can maximize freshness
- Store CBD sleep drinks in a cool, dark place; refrigerate if the label suggests it.
- Avoid leaving drinks in a hot car, on a sunny boat, or on a windowsill.
- Note the “best by” date and aim to consume products within that period.
- Once opened, refrigerate immediately and drink within a day or two.