How Long Do Infused Oils Last?

Infused olive oils, which are olive oils enhanced with added flavors like garlic or basil, are a fantastic way to elevate your dishes, adding complexity and depth of flavor. Whether you’re creating infused olive oil for culinary delights or cannaoil for edibles, understanding the shelf life of infused oils and how to store them properly is essential for maintaining their quality and flavor.

How to Infuse Olive Oil With Cannabis

To create effective cannabis-infused olive oil, the key step is activating the cannabis through a process called decarboxylation, or “decarbing.” This step is essential; without it, the cannabis won’t have the desired effects. When you smoke cannabis, heat activates the cannabinoids, allowing you to feel the effects. The same principle applies when infusing cannabis into olive oil—heat is necessary to activate the marijuana.

Here’s how you do it:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare the Cannabis: Break up the cannabis flowers into small, uniform pieces and spread them evenly on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
3. Decarb the Cannabis: Bake the cannabis in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes. This process activates the cannabinoids, making them ready for infusion.
4. Heat the Olive Oil: Once the cannabis is decarbed, place a saucepan on the stove and add a cup of olive oil. Heat the oil gently.
5. Infuse the Cannabis: Add the decarbed cannabis to the warm oil and simmer for 45 minutes. This allows the cannabinoids to bind with the oil.
6. Strain the Oil: After infusing, strain the oil through a metal screen to remove any plant matter, leaving you with a potent, cannabis-infused olive oil.

This infused oil can now be used in a variety of culinary applications, from edibles to simple drizzling over your favorite dishes.

Do Infused Oils Need a Preservative?

Adding a preservative to your infused oil can extend its shelf life, especially when using fresh herbs, fruits, or vegetables that may introduce moisture and bacteria into the oil. While preservatives can help, proper storage is equally important. Store your infused oils in a cool, dark place, ideally in a refrigerator, to reduce the risk of spoilage and bacteria growth.

How Can You Tell If Infused Oil Is Rancid?

It’s crucial to regularly check your infused oils for spoilage to ensure they are safe to consume. If your infused oil smells like crayons, metal, or has a sour, unusual scent, it may have gone rancid. Additionally, if the oil’s flavor has turned bitter or it has an off taste, it’s best to discard it. Rancid oil won’t necessarily make you sick, but it can cause an upset stomach and will be less nutritious due to the degradation of healthy fats and vitamins.

Can Bacteria Grow in Infused Oil?

Bacteria, particularly botulinum bacteria, can grow in infused oils if not stored properly, especially when fresh ingredients like garlic, basil, or other herbs are used. The risk is higher when moisture is introduced to the oil, so ensuring that your infused ingredients are thoroughly dried before infusing is critical.

Always store infused oils in the refrigerator and consume them within the recommended time frame to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

What Oils Are Best for Infused Oil?

The choice of oil plays a significant role in the flavor and shelf life of your infused oils. Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is a popular choice for infusions due to its rich flavor profile. Infused olive oils, with added flavors like garlic or basil, offer culinary versatility and delightful taste experiences, making them perfect for dressings, marinades, and various food pairings.

However, other oils like Coconut, Walnut, and Rapeseed oil are also excellent options, each offering unique flavors and health benefits:

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a top choice for cannabis infusions due to its high saturated fat content, which maximizes cannabinoid absorption, resulting in a potent oil. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture that works well in both edibles and topical applications.

Walnut Oil

Walnut oil adds a delicate, nutty flavor to dishes, making it a gourmet choice for cannabis infusions. Though it’s less potent due to its lower fat content, its complex flavor makes it ideal for those prioritizing taste in their cannabis cuisine.

Rapeseed Oil

Rapeseed oil is known for its light flavor and high smoke point, making it a versatile option for cannabis infusions. Its neutral taste allows the cannabis to shine, and while it’s not as potent as coconut oil, it’s a great all-purpose cooking oil.

Shelf Life of Infused Oils

Several factors influence how long your infused oil will last. The type of oil, the ingredients used for infusion, exposure to heat and light, and the storage method all play critical roles in determining shelf life. Infused olive oils, for instance, should be stored in a cool, dark place to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage.

Oils infused with fresh herbs, fruits, or vegetables tend to have a shorter shelf life due to the potential for moisture and bacteria growth. On the other hand, oils infused with dried herbs and spices may last longer.

How to Store Infused Oils Properly

Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of infused oils. Keep your oils in a cool, dark place, away from direct light and heat, to prevent them from going rancid. Storing infused oils in dark-colored glass bottles can help protect them from light exposure.

For longer shelf life, consider refrigerating your infused oils, although they may solidify and need to be brought to room temperature before use. Label your oils with the date of infusion to keep track of their freshness.

Enjoying Infused Oils Safely

Infused oils are a delightful addition to any kitchen, adding flavor and complexity to your dishes. By understanding the factors that affect the shelf life of infused oils and how to store them properly, you can enjoy their benefits for longer. Always check your infused oils for signs of spoilage and consume them within the recommended time frames to ensure they are safe and flavorful.