As the cannabis market develops, expectations regarding authenticity and taste increase. Consumers are no longer looking for products that simply “work”. They are looking for flavors from the plant that can make them recognize it and flavors which reflect real cannabis. This growing demand has placed Cannabis derived terpenes at the center of serious product development conversations.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
The reason Terpenes define Cannabis identity
Terpenes, the aromatic substances which give cannabis its distinctive aroma and flavor are the main reason for this. They influence the impression of a product for a long time before its effects are felt. When properly stored, terpenes have the ability to convey freshness and also quality and strain lineage. If they are handled poorly, even high-potency products can seem artificial or flat.
The authentic Cannabis Terpenes are derived directly from the flower of cannabis and capture its aroma. This is fundamentally unlike botanical terpenes that are extracted from non-cannabis sources, and attempt to imitate cannabis profiles. Although botanical blends are cheaper price, they don’t have the sophistication that cannabis enthusiasts would like to see.
The Extraction Method determines the End-Result
The method used to extract Terpenes can have a major impact on their final character. Hydrocarbon extraction using fresh or frozen plant material is usually favored for capturing vivid, live-resin-like aromas. These techniques safeguard fragile compounds that can easily disappear in high-heat or drying processes.
In addition CO2 terpenes have another benefit. Carbon dioxide extraction creates clean, stable portions of terpenes that allow for precision control. While the scent isn’t as intense than that of hydrocarbons that are living, CO2 profiles are highly appreciated because of their consistency and purity. This is especially the case in formulations where balance is more important than intensity.
The two methods serve different purposes, and producers who are well-informed select the one that best suits their needs rather than relying on marketing trends.
The distinction between old and new material can be measured
The quality of cannabis derived terpenes is determined by the harvest. Terpenes have a volatile nature that is, they degrade rapidly when exposed to oxygen, heat or prolonged time. By using fresh flowers, frozen or material that is carefully preserved, you can preserve the original aroma.
After degradation has occurred There is no method of extraction that can restore what was lost. This is the reason experienced Terpene producers are focused on the sourcing process and handling. The difference between the fresh and the compromised material is immediately noticeable in scent clarity and intensity.
What to Look for When purchasing Cannabis Terpenes
The exaggerated and flamboyant descriptions can be ignored when looking at Cannabis Terpenes. Transparency is the most important thing. Buyers should know how the terpenes were extracted and processed.
Consistency is a key factor. Truly cannabis-derived product must smell exactly the same from batch-to batch regardless of whether it’s specific to a particular strain. The presence of large variations is a sign that the company cares about the quality of its products.
A Specific Methodology for Terpene Craft
Some producers try and be everything all at once. Others opt for specialization. Mass Terpenes fits into the second group, as it is focused on terpenes in particular rather than spread attention over various types of products. This focus is more focused and allows for better control of the smell, processing and output.
Mass Terpenes puts an emphasis on letting the aroma be the main focus. Instead of relying upon marketing quality, it is to be viewed through aromas and tastes that are distinctively cannabis-based.
Aroma is the Ultimate Quality Check
A lab report isn’t a substitute for the first time that a cannabis bottle is opened. The aroma of high-quality cannabis-derived Terpenes is evident immediately, and has a familiarity and complexity that are difficult to duplicate in synthetic blends. Aroma remains the truest measure of the success.
The cannabis industry grows, authenticity is now the primary distinguishing factor. No matter if a producer decides to use CO2 terpenes that are refined using CO2 or live extracts of cannabis, the final objective is the same: maintain the natural character of the plant. Terpenes when handled with respect and intention are more than just improving the quality of products. They also carry the cannabis culture forward.