As the cannabis industry develops consumer expectations regarding authenticity and taste are rising. The customer is no longer satisfied by products that “work”. They are looking for authentic experiences that reflect the plant, smells that evoke recognition and taste that reflects the real cannabis. Cannabis derived products are being created to meet this demand.
Why Terpenes define Cannabis identity
Terpenes, which are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinct aroma and flavor are the main reason for this. They influence how a product is perceived before effects are experienced. When properly stored Terpenes are a way to convey freshness and strain lineage. They also communicate overall quality. Even highly-potent products can be artificial or spongy if not handled properly.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
Real Cannabis terpenes are sourced directly from cannabis flower, and capture the aroma of the plant’s. It’s a completely different product from botanical terpenes blends which attempt to replicate the cannabis flavor using substances taken from non-cannabis plants. Blends of botanicals can be more efficient in terms of cost, but they do not have the same level of substance as genuine cannabis.
The Extraction Method Determines the End-Result
The final character of terpenes is determined by the method from which they are extracted. Hydrocarbons are extracted from plant material that is either frozen or fresh and this method can capture the vibrant aromas of a live resin. These techniques preserve compounds that can be easily destroyed by high-temperature processing or drying.
CO2 Terpenes possess a distinct advantage. Carbon dioxide extraction allows for exact control and results in solid, clean terpene fractions. The flavor of the profile could be less pronounced when compared to live hydrocarbon extractions. However, CO2 profiles provide consistency and purity, particularly in formulations which value balance over intensity.
Both methods are equally effective, but each method has its own purpose. Informed producers make their decisions based on desired outcome, not on marketing trends.
The distinction between old and new material is evident.
When the harvest is completed, the quality of cannabis-derived compounds begins to be determined. Terpenes can be volatile and break down when exposed to oxygen, heat or over time. The original scent is best preserved using fresh frozen flowers or other materials that have been properly preserved.
Once degradation has taken place the extraction method won’t be able restore everything of the lost. The industry of terpenes is focused on the source of raw materials and their handling. The aroma and clarity of the product will immediately tell you whether it’s fresh or damaged.
What to be looking for when buying Cannabis Terpenes
When evaluating Cannabis terpenes for sale, flashy descriptions and exaggerated claims are easy to ignore. What matters more is transparency. Buyers must be aware of where the terpenes originate from, how they’re extracted and processed into after extraction.
Consistency plays an important role. Cannabis-derived products, particularly specific strains, must have the same scent from batch to batch. The large variations could indicate insecure sourcing, or rushed production. Both of these are warning signs in the case of quality-oriented brands.
A Specified Methodology for Terpene Craft
Some producers are all-rounders. Others choose to specialize. Mass Terpenes belongs to the second category, and concentrates only on terpenes instead of paying attention to multiple product kinds. The emphasis on terpenes provides greater control over the final product’s aroma and processing.
Mass Terpenes puts an emphasis on letting the smell take the lead. Instead of being a product that is hyped the product’s quality is intended to be felt by tasting and smelling that are distinct cannabis.
Aroma as the Ultimate Quality Check
No lab report can ever replace the moment that the container is opened. The variety and acquaintance with cannabis-derived terpenes are immediately apparent and cannot be matched by artificial blends. Aroma is still the best measure of success.
As the cannabis market develops and becomes more authentic, it is the primary distinguishing factor. This same principle applies regardless of whether producers opt for live-extracted profiles or CO2 refined terpenes. When terpenes are treated with respect and care and care, they not only enhance products they carry cannabis culture forward in its most well-known shape.