Question:
What determines the expiration date on a Cannabis product in California?
Answer:
According to the DCC, “Pursuant to section 17406 of the Department’s regulations, the date the cannabis product was packaged for retail sale is required. However, best-by, sell-by, or expiration dates are optional.
Generally, the licensee who produces or packages/labels the product determines the best-by, sell-by, or expiration dates, if they choose to include one.
Note:
The COA (Certificate of Analysis) date is not the same as the best-by, sell-by, or expiration date. COA’s are good for 12 months from the date of issuance.
Because COAs are good for 12 months, a cannabis product whos COA date exceeds 12 months is considered expired, and the product is no longer considered lab tested. The product would then have to undergo a new lab test and receive a new COA to be sold.