## Denver's D: Is Altitude Shipping Killing Gummies?
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine biting into a gummy vitamin, only to find it’s a sticky, melted mess. Or worse, that the promised dose of CBD is nowhere to be found. This isn’t just a matter of inconvenience; it’s a waste of money and potentially a health concern. In Denver, Colorado, the “Mile High City,” the unique atmospheric conditions can wreak havoc on gummy supplements, impacting their quality and potency.
The lower air pressure and drier climate at 5,280 feet above sea level present a unique challenge to the stability of these delicate treats.
Let’s dive into why this happens and what you can do about it.
Denver’s altitude affects gummy supplements in several ways. The lower air pressure can cause packaging to expand, potentially leading to leaks or damage. This is especially true during shipping, where changes in altitude during transit can exacerbate the issue. The drier air also draws moisture out of the gummies, leading to a change in texture, making them hard, brittle, or even causing them to melt and stick together.
Active ingredients like CBD, vitamins, and other nutrients can degrade more quickly in these conditions. Oxidation, a chemical reaction accelerated by heat and light, is a major culprit. The higher UV radiation at higher altitudes can also contribute to this degradation.
Consider a shipment of CBD gummies traveling from a sea-level manufacturing facility to Denver. During the journey, the gummies experience fluctuating temperatures and pressures. By the time they arrive, some of the CBD may have degraded, reducing the product’s effectiveness.
So, how can Denver residents ensure they’re getting quality gummy supplements?
First, inspect the packaging carefully. Look for signs of damage, such as bulging, leaks, or tears. If the packaging is compromised, the gummies inside are likely affected.
Second, check the expiration date. While this is a general rule, it’s even more critical in Denver. The shelf life of gummies may be shorter due to the altitude’s impact.
Third, examine the gummies themselves. Are they sticky, melted, or unusually hard? Do they have an off-putting odor or discoloration? These are all signs of potential degradation.
Fourth, purchase locally whenever possible. This reduces the amount of time the gummies spend in transit and allows you to inspect them before buying. Support Denver businesses that prioritize proper storage and handling.
Fifth, ask about storage practices. Inquire with the vendor about how they store their gummy supplements. Are they kept in a cool, dark, and dry place? Proper storage can significantly extend the shelf life and maintain the potency of the gummies.
For example, a local Denver CBD shop might store their gummies in a temperature-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight. This helps to minimize degradation and ensure that customers receive a high-quality product.
Now, let’s talk about what vendors can do to protect their gummy products in Denver.
Temperature control is paramount. Gummies should be stored and transported in a temperature-controlled environment, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C). This prevents melting and sticking.
Humidity control is also crucial. Use desiccants or humidity-controlled packaging to prevent the gummies from drying out or absorbing too much moisture.
Protective packaging is essential. Use airtight, opaque packaging to protect the gummies from light and air. Consider using vacuum-sealed packaging to minimize exposure to oxygen.
Proper transportation is key. Use refrigerated or insulated shipping containers to maintain a consistent temperature during transit. Avoid leaving shipments in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Educate your staff. Train your employees on the proper handling and storage of gummy supplements. This includes checking expiration dates, inspecting packaging, and maintaining a clean and organized storage area.
Rotate your stock. Implement a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system to ensure that older gummies are sold before newer ones. This helps to minimize the risk of selling expired or degraded products.
Consider altitude-specific formulations. Work with manufacturers to develop gummy formulations that are more resistant to the effects of altitude. This might involve using different ingredients or adjusting the manufacturing process.
A Denver-based gummy manufacturer could experiment with different binding agents or coatings to make their gummies more resistant to moisture loss. They could also use packaging that is specifically designed to withstand changes in air pressure.
One common mistake developers face is underestimating the impact of altitude on gummy supplements. They may assume that standard storage and transportation practices are sufficient, but this is not the case in Denver.
Another pitfall is failing to educate customers about the potential effects of altitude on gummy supplements. This can lead to dissatisfaction and negative reviews.
To overcome these challenges, vendors need to be proactive and take steps to protect their products. This includes investing in proper storage and transportation equipment, educating their staff, and communicating with their customers.
For instance, a vendor could include a leaflet with each purchase explaining how to store gummies properly in Denver’s climate. They could also offer a satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to return gummies that are not up to par.
In conclusion, Denver’s unique altitude presents a real challenge to the quality and potency of shipped gummy supplements. By understanding the factors that contribute to degradation and taking proactive steps to protect their products, both residents and vendors can ensure that they’re getting the most out of their gummy supplements. Remember to inspect, inquire, and prioritize local purchases for the best results.