Rick Simpson Oil's (RSO) shelf life can be anywhere from one to ten years — this is a huge time frame. But it’s because it depends on the quality of the RSO extraction and the storage method. It’s not a standardized product, which means there’s a lot of variation in the final product’s stability.
Classic RSO is an alcohol-based extraction, which naturally helps extend the cannabis compounds' shelf-life by acting as a preservative. However, when RSO is combined with oils or other ingredients, its longevity can change as each added component has its own expiration timeline.
Carrier oils, for example, can go rancid within 2 years, which may shorten the overall shelf life of the product. Proper storage — like keeping it in a cool, dark place or even refrigerating it — can help preserve its potency and freshness for as long as possible.
Our Raw Scandinavian Oil (RSO) products differ from Rick Simpson Oil, which is made from unheated, fresh Scandinavian hemp. These full spectrum extracts retain their natural plant compounds for a rich, potent experience. We blend them into oils, capsules, and gummies, all with a shelf life of up to 24 months.
Shelf Life
As we said, the shelf life of RSO products depends on the storage conditions. When kept at room temperature in a dark, cool place, Rick Simpson Oil can last years. We recommend you check the manufacturer’s date, as the manufacturing can alter the shelf life.
Neurogan’s exclusive Raw Scandinavian Oil products have a shelf-life of 24 months.
Refrigeration can extend its shelf life to one or two years while freezing it in an airtight container can preserve it for several years, potentially indefinitely. J
ust remember, heat, light, and air are the enemies of potency, so keep it cool, dark, and sealed tight to preserve those powerful cannabinoids and terpenes.
Expiration Date
While RSO does not spoil like food, changes in color, texture, or smell may indicate a loss of potency rather than it becoming unsafe to use. RSO doesn’t have a strict expiration date, but its potency and quality degrade over time.
If the oil changes in color, texture, or smell, it may have degraded, but it doesn’t necessarily become harmful—just less potent. Always store RSO in an airtight container to maximize its longevity.
While RSO doesn’t necessarily have an expiration date, the form in which you consume it may. For example, RSO gummies will have a shorter expiration date compared to oils and capsules due to the additional ingredients used to make the gummies, like gelatin, sugars, and flavorings. Gummies usually last 24 months, while properly stored RSO oil or capsules can stay potent for years or more, especially if kept refrigerated or frozen. Always check for signs of expiration, like changes in texture, smell, or potency.
How to Store RSO Oil
Following our general advice above will also help you preserve the potency and effectiveness of RSO oil. Keep your RSO oil in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air, which can degrade cannabinoids over time. Store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat, such as a pantry or cupboard, if you plan to use it within a few months. For longer storage, refrigeration can extend its shelf life to one or two years, while freezing can preserve it for several years, potentially indefinitely. When frozen, allow it to thaw gradually before use to maintain consistency. Always keep RSO away from moisture, as this can lead to contamination.
Rick Simpson Oil
RSO is the abbreviation for Rick Simpson Oil. Rick Simpson is a cannabis advocate and engineer who experimented with cannabis use during his own cancer journey. During this health journey, Simpson created a highly concentrated cannabis extract known for its high levels of THC and full spectrum cannabinoid profile. You may see takes on Rick Simpson Oil, like our Raw Scandinavian Oil, which is inspired and influenced by the oil’s profile and uses.
