CBD gummies offer a convenient way to consume cannabidiol, but their texture can sometimes become a problem. When these edibles are exposed to air or temperature changes, they often lose moisture, resulting in a hard, brittle, or unpleasantly chewy consistency. This alteration is a common quality issue that makes the gummies difficult to consume. Fortunately, a few simple methods can restore the soft, desirable texture without compromising the cannabinoid content.
Immediate Methods for Restoring Texture
One of the most effective techniques to reintroduce moisture is the controlled humidity method. Place the hardened gummies inside a clean, airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable plastic bag. Next, introduce a small, moisture-rich item, like a fresh slice of bread or a piece of damp, non-dripping paper towel. The moisture will slowly transfer from the item to the gummies through the air within the sealed environment.
Seal the container tightly and allow it to sit for 12 to 24 hours, checking the texture periodically. This slow, passive rehydration process is gentle and avoids dissolving the gummy structure. Once the desired softness returns, remove the bread or paper towel to prevent mold growth and immediately seal the gummies for storage.
Using Gentle Heat
A second option is to apply gentle, indirect heat, which briefly softens the gelatin or pectin base. You can place the sealed container of gummies near a warm spot, like on top of a refrigerator, allowing the low ambient warmth to slightly relax the gummy matrix. This method must be done with caution to ensure the gummies do not melt into a single mass.
If using a microwave, place the gummies on a plate and heat them on the lowest power setting for short intervals, such as 5 to 10 seconds at a time. High temperatures accelerate the breakdown of cannabinoids, and continuous exposure above approximately 77°F (25°C) can cause a reduction in potency. Never allow the gummies to become hot to the touch or melt, as this will destroy their shape and degrade the CBD.
Understanding Why Gummies Harden
Gummy hardness primarily occurs due to water loss through evaporation. These edibles contain significant moisture, and when the packaging seal is broken, that water content escapes into the surrounding atmosphere. This moisture loss causes the sugar and gelling agents, such as gelatin or pectin, to contract and become densely packed.
The resulting brittle texture is exacerbated by low ambient humidity, which pulls the moisture out of the gummies. As the water evaporates, the sugars within the gummy matrix can also crystallize, contributing to a grainy or stiff consistency. Although hard gummies are safe to eat, their unpleasant texture is the main concern.
While hardening itself does not destroy the CBD, the conditions that cause it—prolonged exposure to air and light—can reduce the cannabinoid’s effectiveness. CBD is sensitive to environmental factors, and poor storage that causes staleness can lead to a reduction in potency over time.
Proper Storage to Maintain Freshness
Preventing hardness relies on controlling the environment surrounding the gummies. The first step is to transfer the gummies into a truly airtight container immediately after opening, if the original packaging is not resealable. A glass jar with a rubber-sealed lid is an excellent choice for maintaining a stable atmosphere.
Gummies should be kept in a cool, dark location away from sources of heat and direct sunlight. The ideal storage temperature range is between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C), which helps stabilize the gummy structure and prevents cannabinoid degradation. This practice limits exposure to light and oxygen, two factors that accelerate the chemical breakdown of CBD.
Avoid storing CBD gummies in the refrigerator unless specifically directed by the manufacturer. While a refrigerator is cool, the low humidity inside can pull moisture from the gummies, causing them to dry out further. Additionally, moving cold gummies to room temperature can cause condensation on the surface, making them sticky.