One of the quickest ways to destroy cannabis value is through poor packaging. Environmental factors such as heat, humidity, light, and oxygen degrade THC and terpenes even before a product is in the hands of the consumer. Investing in the right 420 packaging can completely change this disadvantage.
Moisture Barriers Help Prevent Mold Growth
According to a study published in the Knowledge – International Journal, cannabis flower mold will thrive if the humidity is higher than 65%. The study showed that aluminum laminate bags with the best water vapor transmission rates (WVTR) were able to maintain their performance advantages over standard HDPE jars for a nine-month storage period, and nitrogen-packed samples were even able to keep their THC levels within specification. For packaging providers, this confirms the move towards using high-barrier materials.
UV Protection Maintains the Quality of Active Ingredients
Exposure to UV light results in photolysis, which is the breaking down of a molecule into smaller parts by the action of light; it is this reaction that changes THC to the less potent CBN. Therefore, having 420 packaging that is opaque or has UV-blocking properties will entirely eliminate that mode of degradation. Besides THC, some terpenes, such as pinene and myrcene, are highly susceptible to being affected by light and heat; once they evaporate, the aroma and effects of the product are lost forever.
Freshness Without Oxygen
Exposure to oxygen rapidly speeds up the process of oxidation in all cannabis forms – flower, concentrates, and infused beverages. This results in a very low oxygen transmission rate (OTR), in conjunction with nitrogen flushing, which helps preserve the chemical composition of the product from the time it was processed until it is purchased.
The Importance of High-Quality Materials
Low-cost packaging with overly high transmission rates effectively reduces shelf life. 420 packaging solutions that are able to resist different climates and made with multilayer laminates, airtight closures, and UV-blocking layers ensure protection not only of the product but also of the brand’s image.
The Right Packaging Can Safeguard Cannabis Quality
The deterioration of cannabis occurs immediately after harvest and will be even faster if you start cutting corners with packaging. One of the best ways to ensure your product quality throughout the supply chain is to facilitate climate-resilient 420 packaging that offers effective moisture, UV, and oxygen barriers.