Understanding Edibles
Edibles, as the name suggests, are food products that contain marijuana. Unlike smoking or vaping, consuming edibles provides a slower but longer-lasting high. They come in various forms, such as brownies, chocolates, gummies, and even beverages. Edibles are an excellent alternative for people who do not like to inhale smoke or have lung problems. However, the effects of edibles vary from person to person and depend on factors like tolerance, metabolism, and food intake.
The Process of Making Edibles
To make edibles, you need to extract the THC or CBD from the cannabis plant and infuse it into food products. This process involves decarboxylation, which is the process of heating the cannabis to activate the cannabinoids. After decarboxylation, the cannabis is mixed with a fat or oil-based substance like butter, coconut oil, or vegetable oil. The mixture is heated again to extract the cannabinoids into the oil or fat. This infused oil or fat is then used to make various food products like brownies, chocolates, and gummies.
Edibles vs. Smoking
Edibles provide a different high than smoking or vaping. When you smoke cannabis, the effects are felt immediately and last for a few hours. However, when you consume edibles, it takes longer for the effects to kick in, usually between 30 minutes to an hour. The high from edibles can last for several hours, up to eight hours, depending on the dosage and the user’s tolerance. Smoking cannabis can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems, while edibles are considered safer for people with asthma or other lung problems.
Dispensaries and Edibles
Dispensaries are licensed shops where people can purchase cannabis products for medical or recreational use. These shops sell a variety of products like flowers, concentrates, edibles, and topicals. Dispensaries source their products from licensed cultivators and manufacturers who follow strict regulations and guidelines.
How Dispensaries get their Edibles
Dispensaries get their edibles from licensed manufacturers who produce and distribute cannabis-infused products. These manufacturers follow strict regulations and guidelines set by the government to maintain quality and safety standards. They use laboratory-tested cannabis to ensure that the products are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides.
When a dispensary buys edibles from a manufacturer, they check the packaging and labeling to ensure that they comply with the regulations. The packaging should include important information like the THC/CBD content, serving size, and ingredients. Dispensaries also check the expiration date and batch number to ensure that the product is fresh and has been tested.
The Cost of Edibles
The cost of edibles in dispensaries varies depending on the dosage, brand, and type of product. Generally, edibles are more expensive than flowers or concentrates because of the additional manufacturing process and the ingredients used. The cost can range from a few dollars for a low-dose gummy to over $50 for a pack of high-dose chocolates.
Conclusion
Edibles are a popular alternative to smoking or vaping cannabis. They provide a slower but longer-lasting high and are considered safer for people with lung problems. Dispensaries get their edibles from licensed manufacturers who follow strict regulations and guidelines to maintain quality and safety standards. The cost of edibles in dispensaries varies depending on the dosage, brand, and type of product. Overall, edibles offer a convenient and discreet way to consume cannabis and can provide an enjoyable experience for those who prefer not to smoke.
