Does MCT Oil Go Bad? How To Maximize Freshness and Identify Bad Oil

Does MCT oil go bad? And, if there’s MCT oil in your CBD + CBDa product, will this carrier oil impact your supplement? Well, these are common questions we get about any ingestible substance. And, just like any oil, MCT (medium-chain triglycerides) oil certainly could go bad. It shares a similarity with coconut oil in that it has a relatively long shelf life and doesn’t need refrigeration. But even though it’s shelf-stable, you may want to store it in the refrigerator to maintain the maximum freshness.

When it comes to MCT oil’s shelf life, there is a standard duration. Many manufacturers claim that their oil has a two-year shelf life from the actual packaging date. In most cases, the date is the one stamped on the bottle as the use-by or best-by date. Generally speaking, it would be safest to toss any oil after the two-year mark. However, there are ways to help prolong the shelf life. In this article, you will learn about shelf life, storage, and signs of MCT oil going bad. But first, let us explain why we add MCT oil to Tanasi’s CBD + CBDa products. 

Why Tanasi Uses MCTs with CBD + CBDa

Over the last few years, scientists have been able to isolate many cannabis components. One is cannabidiol(CBD), but they’ve actually identified 113 different cannabinoids so far. Already, CBD is a popular supplement ingredient, but its acidic precursor, CBDa, is often overlooked. Except by Tanasi, who combines the two compounds in a 1:1, patent-pending formulation in all of our hemp extracts. And that gets you 2x results compared to CBD alone.

But why do we add MCT oil as a carrier for this power couple? Well, it helps your body absorb more of the active ingredients in your supplement. Basically, your body can’t fully absorb concentrated cannabinoids without assistance.  Luckily, CBD is fat-soluble, so when you combine this cannabinoid with a fatty acid, it’s easier for your body to absorb.

Now, any fatty substance could play this role. But MCT is a superior option than other oils. Why is that the case? MCT’s chemical structure is smaller than most other oils. That means your body breaks it down faster, using it sooner so that it can quickly help you absorb all that CBD + CBDa goodness. But how long will it stay ‘good’ and effective? Keep reading to find out!

What Is MCT Oil’s Shelf Life?

The shelf life will vary based on how well you store and keep your MCT oil. For instance, if you keep it on the counter in direct sunlight, it might go bad within six months to a year. On the other hand, if you keep your oil refrigerated or in a cool, dry, and dark environment, it might stay fresh for two yrs or longer. 

Don’t forget that shelf life often refers to how long a product is good when unopened. After the product is opened, the factors we just reviewed play a significant role in how long your particular product lasts. If you want to prolong the MCT oil’s shelf life, you’ll have to handle and store it appropriately. 

How Should You Store MCT Oil After Opening It?

Once you open your oil, it is best to store it in a cool, dry, and dark environment. Choose a cabinet or cupboard that’s away from direct sunlight and from any high heat. Keep in mind that cabinets located over a stovetop tend to become very warm while the stove is on.

Although you don’t have to store MCT oil in your fridge, refrigeration could slow the spoiling process, especially if you live in a warm environment or keep your household on the warmer side.

What Is MCT Oil’s Lifespan in the Refrigerator?

Most oils, including MCT, have a relatively long shelf life when they’re refrigerated. Although most manufacturers provide a best-by date, highlighting when the product might turn bad or lose its potency, remember that this date applies to an unopened bottle. 

After opening the bottle and exposing it to air, the oxidation process begins. This causes the oil’s quality to deteriorate faster. As a result, not only should you follow the proper storage recommendations, but you should also ensure that you seal the bottle tightly after each use. 

Although there is no exact proof supporting particular dates, mostly if refrigerated, it would be best to abide by the two-year mark from the actual manufactured date. Just to reiterate, it’s the date printed on the bottle as the best-by or use-by date. 

Does MCT Oil Have to Be Refrigerated?

Typically, MCT oil doesn’t have to be refrigerated. All it requires is some cool, dry place to be kept in. For those who have been refrigerating their MCT oil, don’t fret – this won’t affect the product. However, it is an excellent place to ensure that it is stored in a cool condition, which could help avoid premature degradation.

Will MCT Oil Solidify in the Refrigerator?

MCT oil differs from coconut oil in that it won’t solidify when it’s refrigerated or if the temperature drops. MCT oil will stay in its liquid state even if refrigerated. In some cases, MCT oil may turn pure white and solidify. However, this is only the case with temperatures 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. There is a good chance that if the MCT oil does solidify in the refrigerator, the oil used isn’t as pure as possible. 

How Can You Determine Whether MCT Oil Is Bad?

In general, there are several ways to determine whether your MCT oil is still good. Just like other foods and oils, we should rely on our various senses to tell if the MCT oil is still usable or has gone bad. Although the texture, clarity, and color might change slightly with age, that doesn’t mean it’s rancid.

Once the oil has become rancid, it is usually difficult to NOT know, particularly with an oil such as MCT oil. Perhaps two years have passed and you’d still like to use your oil. Here are a few ways to determine whether your it has become bad.

Smell and Taste

MCT oil should be odorless and tasteless. One of the first signs that your oil has become bad is any recognizable smell or taste, especially if it is unpleasant. If you determine that the taste is not up to your standards, don’t hesitate to toss out the oil for quality reasons.

Color

Similar to the smell and taste of MCT oil, it should also contain no color. Typically, oil that has become rancid can have a yellowish tint, indicating that it is most probably spoiled. 

Clarity

If MCT oil has become bad, you might recognize the presence of dark oil spots, which might indicate that it has grown mold or bacteria. 

Consistency

Generally, MCT oil has an extremely smooth consistency, the same as that of olive oil, or even thinner. If you notice it becoming thick, viscous, or lumpy, throw it away!

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Bad MCT Oil?

As of now, there isn’t much scientific literature concerning the side effects of ingesting rancid MCT oil. However, since even brand new MCT oil can cause some stomach discomfort, it’s safe to assume that expired oil could worsen that side effect. With that said, we would all bet that using anything spoiled might come with some health complications or make you feel sick. All things considered, if you suspect that your product has expired, the prudent thing to do is to throw it away. Buying new MCT oil won’t break the bank, and possible health risks just aren’t worth taking a chance.

If being wasteful is not really an option for you, using your MCT oil as your carrier oil for things such as essential oils could be a workable option. Since it is also lightweight, it tends to absorb into the skin fast, making it a considerably clean and effective carrier oil.

Bottom Line

Every oil has its expiration date, including MCT. Many manufacturers will state a use-by or best-by date on the bottle; this is generally two years from the manufacturing date. By practicing good handling and storing methods, you can expect yours to be okay at least until that date. Sealing the bottle tightly and storing it in some cool, dark, and dry environment, will help the oil to maintain its freshness. Refrigeration is also a safe option to lengthen the life of MCT oil.

But you should never assume that any oil or food product will remain fresh any longer than a year after its expiration date. The best way to check whether MCT is bad is by using your senses (vision, smell, taste) and practicing your best judgment. If it smells or tastes like anything, or appears viscous or lumpy don’t risk using it. As with any product, use it while it’s fresh to reap the maximum benefits.