As the marijuana market expands and matures, so does consumer expectations. Customers are no longer content with products that simply “work.” They want experience that is true to the plant aromas that evoke recognition, and tastes that are true to cannabis, not just imitations. This growing demand has placed Cannabis derived terpenes at the center of serious product development conversations.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
Why Terpenes Define Cannabis Identity
Terpenes provide the unique flavor and aroma of cannabis strains. They impact how a particular product is perceived prior to any effects are felt. If properly stored, terpenes can convey the freshness of a product and also strain lineage. They also convey general quality. Even highly-potent products can be fake or flat if not handled correctly.
Cannabis flower is the source of the real Cannabis Terpenes that capture the natural aroma of the plant. This is a distinct distinction from botanical blends of terpenes which attempt to imitate cannabis profiles by using compounds that are not derived from cannabis plants. While botanical blends can be cost-effective but the flavor that people expect from real cannabis isn’t always available.
The Extraction Method Determines the End-Result
The way terpenes are extracted has a huge impact on their final character. Hydrocarbon extraction using fresh or frozen plant material is usually favored for capturing vibrant, live-resin-like scents. These methods protect substances that are easily destroyed by high-temperature processing or drying.
CO2 Terpenes are also an excellent alternative. Carbon dioxide extraction yields solid, clean portions of terpenes that allow for precision control. While the scent isn’t as strong than the aroma of live hydrocarbons CO2 profiles are appreciated because of their consistency and purity. This is especially true in formulations when balance is more important than intensity.
Both strategies work equally well, however each serves a distinct purpose. A knowledgeable producer makes their decision based on the desired result rather than marketing trends.
The distinction between new and old material is measurable
At harvest the quality of cannabis-derived substances starts to be established. Terpenes by nature, are flammable, which means they are prone to degrade when exposed to heat, oxygen or even time. Freshly frozen material or flowers that have been preserved with care will help preserve the original scent profile.
No extraction method can be used to restore the value that has been lost after degradation occurs. The terpene industry is focused on the sourcing of raw materials and their handling. The difference between the fresh and the compromised material can be immediately felt in smell clarity and in depth.
What to be aware of when buying Cannabis Terpenes
In evaluating Cannabis Terpenes, it is easy to miss overly-exaggerated descriptions. The most important factor is transparency. Buyers must be aware of the method of extraction, where they come from and how they will be processed.
Consistency is a crucial aspect. The smell of cannabis-derived products should be constant from batch to batch. This is particularly important when the cannabis strains differ. If there are large differences in smell, it could be a sign of unstable sourcing and rushed production. Both of them are red flags to brands who care about quality.
A Specific Approach to Terpene Craft
Some producers try and be all things to all people. Others opt for specialization. Mass Terpenes falls into the second group, which focuses exclusively on the extraction of terpenes instead of expanding their focus to other product types. That narrow focus allows for more control over aroma, processing, and the final product.
By focusing on small-batch production as well as meticulous post-processing, Mass Terpenes emphasizes letting the scent speak for itself. Instead of relying on advertising, the quality must be felt through the smells and flavors that are distinct cannabis-based.
Aroma: The Ultimate Quality Check
The moment you open an bottle, no lab report will be able to replace it. Terpenes that are high-quality and derived from cannabis announce themselves immediately, with complexity and familiarity that artificial blends are unable to compete with. Aroma is the most reliable way to judge success.
Authenticity is the new differentiator in the business. The goal is the same regardless of regardless of whether a producer makes use of CO2 terpenes, or cold-cured varieties. If cannabis and terpenes are treated with care and respect they do more that enhance the quality of products. They are the carriers of the culture of cannabis into the future in the most well-known varieties.
