Kind of. Incense doesn't have a "shelf life" in the same way that perishable items do, but it can undergo changes over time that affect its quality and potency.
Factors that affect it:
- Moisture Damage: Moisture can cause the incense to become damp, making it challenging to burn and altering its scent. ( reduces quality )
- Contamination: Incense can absorb odors from its surroundings. Storing it in airtight containers or away from strong odors will prevent contamination.
- Fading Fragrance: Over time, the aromatic compounds in incense may dissipate, resulting in a less potent or faded fragrance. This can happen due to exposure to air, light, or fluctuations in temperature.
- Changes in Appearance: Depending on the ingredients used in the incense, it may undergo changes in color or texture over time. This is a natural process and may not necessarily indicate spoilage.
How to MAXIMIZE the lifespan and quality of your incense:
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place: This will minimize exposure to light and temperature fluctuations.
- Use Airtight Containers: This will protect it from moisture and external odors.
- Rotate Stock: If you have a collection of incense, you can rotate through your stock to ensure you use older batches before they potentially lose potency.
Summary
Incense doesn't exactly "go bad" in the way that food does, but it can lose it's quality due to a few factors, the main ones being water damage and odor contamination.
Use our tips to keep your incense at its HIGHEST quality!