So, you’ve been wondering how to identify quality cannabis? The first thing to realize when it comes to top shelf cannabis is that it’s so much more than THC content (more on that later). So then, how can we find that “fire” cannabis? Here are 5 tips to consider when it comes to grading cannabis.
1. Take a Big Sniff
You probably already do this anyway, but one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to detect quality cannabis is to let those terpene profiles tickle and satisfy your olfactory receptor cells (AKA your nose).
More than 60% of cannabis consumers rely on smell to help them decide on a purchase—and for good reason! Generally speaking, the stronger and more pleasant and pungent aroma, the better the product. The importance of terpenes comes down to the fact that they’ve been known (as demonstrated in this study) to contribute to the therapeutic, entourage, and psychological effects of cannabis.
Simply put, if you’re smelling “skunk,” “dank,” or “loud” odor, you’re probably in for a treat. That being said, it’s best to avoid anything that smells like lawn cuttings, mildew, or mold.
2. Check for Visual Hints
If you find yourself taking note of twisty “hairs” or buds that look like they have little crystals on them, you’re already working as a quality cannabis detective. These quality indicators—shiny microscopic crystals, sugary coats of resin, or fine outgrowths—are trichomes. They’re where the cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes are found.
The more trichomes you see, the more unique and potent your favorite cannabis strain will be. Along with the presence of trichomes, thicker and denser buds often indicate that better indoor cannabis cultivation growing techniques were used, too.
If bag appeal is all you’re working with, colorful buds are better, too. But it’s important to realize that we should never judge a book by its cover, and we should avoid judging cannabis solely by the way it’s packaged, or how it looks in a bag.
3. Realize the Power of Potency
Speaking of potency, it’s also important to realize that higher THC levels do not always mean more potent cannabis, nor high quality cannabis! Many people are instantly put off by lowpo, or low potency, cannabis—but for all the wrong reasons.
Let’s start by quickly quelling the misconception that low potency marijuana (or that with a lower THC%) is any worse than strains with 20% or even 25% THC. According to a study conducted by researchers at Colorado University Boulder, higher THC concentrations were not associated with significantly different self-reported levels of intoxication (read: higher THC content is a poor indicator of potency and will not get you higher).
Dubbed the “THC fallacy,” many people incorrectly assume that the THC percentage is an indicator of “good” weed. However, When it comes to getting high, THC is just one factor at play. The entourage effect produced by a range of 100+ cannabinoids and the terpenes is far more indicative of quality than a single number—especially when lab tests aren’t always accurate and are sometimes fraudulent.
4. Feel the Flower
Many of us probably recognize that the best craft cannabis is that which is somewhat spongy, sticky, and that perfect level of moisture. It’s good to check for stems that easily snap and buds that aren’t wet enough to develop mildew or mold, or dry enough that they crumble.
5. Support Ethical Cannabis
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or throughout-the-day toker, it’s better for you, the cannabis industry, and people and our planet to support ethical cultivation practices and companies. Small, craft producers are best—especially those that are women-, Black-, or minority-owned.
And this is where we come in! Get in touch to find out how we can help you with cannabis buying that supports a cleaner product and a healthier planet. For better B2B cannabis, you can rest assured that you’re getting a SIMPLY CLEAN Certified product from a company that gives back.