As the cannabis industry matures, consumer expectations regarding authenticity and flavor are on the rise. Consumers are no longer satisfied with products that only “work.” They want experiences that feel authentically like the aromas of the plant that make them feel recognized and taste that reflect real cannabis, not merely imitations. Cannabis derived Terpenes have become a major focus of product development due to the growing demand.
Terpenes are the main elements of the cannabis identity
Terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinct aroma and flavor are the main reason for this. They can influence the impression of a product long before its effects are felt. If properly preserved Terpenes can convey freshness, strain history, and quality. If they are handled badly even the most potent product can feel flat or artificial.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
Real Cannabis Terpenes come directly from cannabis flower, capturing the plant’s natural aromatic fingerprint. This is distinct from botanical blends of terpenes that attempt to replicate cannabis profiles by using compounds made from plants other than cannabis. 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 affects the result
How terpenes are extracted has a huge impact on their final flavor. Hydrocarbons extracted from fresh or freshly-frozen plant materials are typically used to capture vibrant, resinous-like scents. These methods are used to preserve the fragile compounds that would otherwise be destroyed by drying or high heat processing.
CO2 terpenes offer another advantage. Carbon dioxide extraction permits precise control, and produces pure and stable Terpenes that are stable and clean. CO2 extractions could create a less intense aroma than live hydrocarbons but are still valued for quality and consistency, particularly in formulations that value the balance of intensity over intensity.
It is not possible to pick between these two. Each has a purpose that is different and the producers must make a decision based upon their intended outcome instead of the latest trends in marketing.
Fresh Material can make a tangible change
Terpenes from high-quality cannabis are harvested when they are harvested. Terpenes can be volatile and rapidly degrade when they come in contact with oxygen, temperatures and time or other elements. Utilizing fresh frozen material or carefully preserved flowers helps lock in the original aromatic profile.
When degradation occurs and the process of extraction ceases, there is no way that can restore what was lost. Terpene producers with experience are focused on sourcing and handling in a constant manner. The contrast between a fresh and compromised product is immediately noticeable in scent clarity and intensity.
What to look out for when purchasing Cannabis Terpenes
When evaluating Cannabis terpenes for sale, flashy descriptions and exaggerated claims are easy to ignore. Transparency is the most important thing. Buyers must know where the terpenes come from, the method of extraction and processed to after extraction.
Consistency plays a significant aspect. It is essential that the smell of cannabis-derived products is identical, irrespective of the size of the batch. If there is a lot of difference, it could be an indication of unsteady sourcing or rushed production. Both of these are red flags to brands that are concerned about the quality of their products.
Terpene Craft: A Focused Method
Some producers try and be all things at once. Some choose to specialize. Mass Terpenes fits into the second group, as it focuses on terpenes exclusively instead of spreading attention across multiple product types. The emphasis on terpenes allows for more control of the end product’s the aroma, and the processing.
Mass Terpenes places a high importance on small batch production, and a careful post-processing. This allows the scent to speak for itself. The flavor should be felt immediately, not via the hype.
Aroma: The Ultimate Quality Check
When you open a bottle, no lab report can replace it. The variety and acquaintance with cannabis-derived terpenes are immediately apparent and can’t be matched by artificial blends. Aroma is still the best gauge of a successful blend.
Authenticity has become a key element in distinguishing the business as it continues to evolve. It doesn’t matter if a product is made with CO2 terpenes which have been refined or cold-cured, the ultimate goal is to maintain the original flavor of the plant. If terpenes are handled with care and respect, they can do much more than just enhance the quality of the product. They can also assist in bringing cannabis culture in its most recognizable format.