How to Store Cheap Shatter Without Compromising Quality
Shatter, a potent form of cannabis concentrate, offers an intense high with its high THC content. However, even though you're dealing with cheaper shatter, maintaining its quality is essential for the best experience. Proper storage can make a significant difference in preserving its potency, flavor, and overall quality. Here’s a guide to help you store your shatter correctly without compromising its quality.
- Choose the Right Container
When storing shatter, the type of container you use is crucial. Opt for glass containers with airtight seals, as glass doesn’t react with the concentrate and prevents contamination. Silicone containers are also a good choice, particularly those specifically designed for concentrates. They are non-stick, which helps in preserving the shatter and makes it easier to handle.
Avoid plastic containers, especially if they’re not food-grade. Plastic can interact with the concentrate and may degrade the shatter over time. Additionally, plastic can absorb some of the concentrate’s cannabinoids, leading to a loss of potency.
- Keep It Cool
Temperature plays a significant role in the quality of shatter. Heat can cause the cannabinoids to degrade and lead to a loss of potency and flavor. Ideally, store your shatter in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A dedicated drawer or a small, locked box in a cool room is an excellent option.
For long-term storage, consider refrigerating your shatter. However, be cautious not to freeze it, as extreme cold can cause the shatter to become brittle and possibly shatter into pieces. If you do refrigerate, make sure it’s in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting the concentrate.
- Avoid Excessive Handling Minimize handling of your shatter to maintain its quality. Frequent touching can introduce oils and contaminants from your skin, which might affect the concentrate. Use a dab tool or parchment paper when handling shatter to avoid direct contact. This practice not only helps in preserving the quality but also ensures you get the most out of your concentrate.
- Prevent Exposure to Air Exposure to air can cause shatter to degrade over time. Oxygen can lead to oxidation, which affects the concentrate’s potency and flavor. To minimize air exposure, always ensure that the container is tightly sealed. If you're using parchment paper or wax paper to separate pieces of shatter, make sure it's well-wrapped and stored within an airtight container.
- Protect From Light Light, particularly UV rays, can break down cannabinoids and terpenes, leading to a loss of potency and flavor. Store your shatter in a dark place or use opaque containers to protect it from light exposure. Keeping it in a cabinet or a drawer away from direct light sources will help maintain its quality.
- Monitor Humidity Levels Moisture can negatively impact the quality of shatter by making it sticky and difficult to handle. Excess moisture can also lead to mold growth, which is undesirable. Store shatter in a dry environment and ensure that the container is moisture-proof. Avoid storing it in areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms or basements.
- Check Regularly Regularly check your stored shatter to ensure it's maintaining its quality. Look for any changes in texture, color, or smell, as these can indicate degradation. If you notice any issues, it may be time to adjust your storage methods or address potential problems with the storage environment.