The escalating demand for high-THC cannabis products in Michigan is driving significant changes in the market. As consumer preferences shift towards more potent options, manufacturers are phasing out plants with THC levels below 20%, focusing primarily on high-THC strains. This trend is particularly evident in the pre-roll sector, where the competition for potency has led to an increase in the use of cannabis concentrates.
Producers are now infusing pre-rolls with live resin, live rosin, kief, and various other concentrates to boost THC content. Premium products from brands like Element and Ice Kream Hash Co. highlight the potential for high-quality, infused pre-rolls. However, the majority of infused pre-rolls are made using lower-quality flower combined with cheap distillates and non-naturally occurring terpenes and flavorings.
The widespread use of these additives raises several concerns. To counteract the harshness of low-quality flower and concentrates, manufacturers frequently add terpenes, which are compounds responsible for the distinct aroma and flavor of cannabis. Advances in technology have made it possible to isolate these terpenes from cannabis and other plants, but the addition of high concentrations of terpenes and flavorings, especially when combusted, poses potential health risks.
Jason Allen, co-founder of Lapeer-based Old School Organics, underscores the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of inhaling combusted terpenes. "No one knows enough about the long-term effects of combusting these types of terpenes and flavorings," Allen notes. Old School Organics adheres to more traditional practices, offering 100% flower pre-rolls made from strains selected for their natural terpene profiles.
Despite the potential risks, the industry has largely embraced this trend. Infused pre-rolls offer a way for producers to utilize lower-tier buds by enhancing them with distillates and terpenes, thereby producing high-THC pre-rolls at a low cost. This caters to the prevalent consumer demand for affordable products with maximum THC content.
The focus on THC potency and low cost reflects a broader issue within the cannabis industry. Many consumers equate high THC levels with quality, often overlooking other important factors such as the overall quality of the flower and the presence of potentially harmful additives. Consumer education and awareness are crucial in addressing these issues. Knowing the composition of cannabis products and consulting knowledgeable budtenders can help consumers make safer choices.
In summary, while the trend of infused pre-rolls meets current market demands, it is essential for consumers to remain informed and cautious. Cannabis, while generally safe, should be consumed responsibly. Awareness and accountability from both producers and consumers are key to ensuring the safe and enjoyable use of cannabis products.
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