The Mystery of Why Hemp Gummies Melt in the Mail?

The Mystery of Why Hemp Gummies Melt in the Mail?

Edibles or gummies can be a delectable delight and offer a discreet and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of THC, the psychoactive component of hemp. However, for those who have ever received edibles/gummies in the mail, there's often one
puzzling question. Why do they sometimes arrive melted?
Being a North Carolina based company it’s not uncommon to find your edibles/gummies melted if they are exposed to these NC temps. Gelatin-based products begin to lose their jelly-like qualities at temperatures between 90-95°F.
 Let's delve into the science behind this phenomenon.

Gelatin VS Pectin

  • Gelatin:
    • Melting Point: Gelatin has a relatively low melting point, typically between 90-95°F (32-35°C). At this temperature range, gelatin begins to soften and lose its structural integrity, causing gummies to become sticky and eventually liquefy.
    • Properties: Gelatin is derived from animal collagen and is known for its ability to form a gel-like consistency when dissolved in water and cooled. It provides the chewy texture that is characteristic of gummy candies.
  • Pectin:
    • Melting Point: Pectin has a higher melting point compared to gelatin, typically around 190-200°F (88-93°C). This means that pectin-based gummies are more resistant to heat and less likely to melt at room temperature or during transit.
    • Properties: Pectin is a plant-based polysaccharide found in fruits, particularly citrus fruits. It is commonly used as a gelling agent in jams, jellies, and gummy candies. Pectin forms a gel when combined with sugar and acid, creating a firmer texture compared to gelatin-based gummies.
Heat Exposure:

The journey through the mail system can subject packages to various temperature fluctuations. Even if the weather seems mild at the point of departure, the conditions can change drastically during transit. Additionally, packages may be exposed to heat sources such as delivery trucks, warehouses, or mail sorting facilities, exacerbating the melting process.

Summer Challenges:

The problem of melted edibles gummies is often more pronounced during the summer months when temperatures soar.

Are my Edibles/gummies Compromised?

While gelatin gummies are doomed to melt at temperatures exceeding 90°F, their THC level stays the same. This is because THC’s boiling point isn’t as low (around 315°F). You’d need to literally cook your edibles to free them from their magical properties. If you aren’t considering making weed with a melted gummy, simply leaving it in a trekking backpack during your mid-July hike won’t be enough to eliminate the cannabinoids.

What to do with your melted gummies

Refrigerate them immediately to resolidify them to a whole state. The sooner you get them cooled back down the easier it will be to dose per the original package.  Melted gummies can combine causing levels to be unpredictable. We always recommend starting off with half your desired dose and every 30 minutes as needed.

 In conclusion edibles, gummies melt in the mail primarily due to the low melting point of gelatin, heat exposure during transit. While receiving a package of melted gummies can be disappointing, it's essential for manufacturers and consumers alike to consider these factors and take steps to ensure the quality and integrity of the product, especially during warmer seasons. Whether it's using better packaging materials, opting for expedited shipping during hot weather, or exploring alternative formulations, addressing the challenge of melted hemp gummies in the mail is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and product efficacy.

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