One of the most popular products on dispensary shelves today are THC gummies. Available in a variety of flavors and formulations, cannabis gummies consistently outsell other ingestibles. According to BDS Analytics, “During the first four months of 2019, 17 of the top 20 selling ingestible products in California, Colorado and Oregon were gummies. During the same period in the three states, gummy sales reached $115 million.”

That’s a lot of candy! But why exactly are THC gummies so popular? And how are they made? Read on for Cannadish’s complete guide to cannabis gummies.

Cannabis Edibles – a Brief Introduction

To understand THC gummies you must first understand edibles. Cannabis edibles (also known as ingestibles) are foods and drinks that contain concentrated cannabinoids, the active ingredients in marijuana. Cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD, enter the bloodstream via the liver. Edibles can take 30-90 minutes to take effect and the effects can last up to eight hours.

How are Cannabis Gummies Made?

Recipes for gummies vary between producers, but the active ingredient is typically THC distillate. This flavorless and odorless concoction is a popular choice for edibles makers because it doesn’t leave any weed aftertaste. THC distillate is also inexpensive to make on a large scale. Extractors use supercritical carbon dioxide to separate the cannabinoids from the plant, resulting in a potent product perfect for gummies.

Cannabis tincture can also be used in gummy recipes for those who desire a full spectrum. While it will have that familiar dank aroma, cannabis tincture also contains a wide array of cannabinoids and terpenes that distillates do not. Cannabis butter is not an option for gummies since recipes do not call for fats.

THC Gummies – Leader of the Pack

There are several theories as to why Gummies are so popular. First off, edibles in general are a discreet way to consume cannabis. They are attractive for those wishing to abstain from inhaling smoke or vapor. Additionally, THC gummies offer a fairly consistent outcome in a low-calorie dose. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) have made the manufacturing process of gummies smoother than ever – these aren’t your grandma’s pot brownies!

Here are some of the most popular cannabis gummy brands on the legal market (according to BDS Analytics):

• Plus Gummies
• Kanha Treats
• Wana Brands
• Camino by KIVA

What about CBD Gummies?

It seems like CBD (cannabidiol) gummies are available literally everywhere nowadays. From convenience stores to dedicated CBD shops, hemp is seriously hot. Due to a lack of federal regulation however, it can be hard to tell which products are legit. Here are a few tips:

• Read the Label – If you see “hemp seed oil” as an ingredient, beware. Hemp seeds (which are rich in antioxidants) do not actually contain CBD.
• Check the Source – U.S. grown hemp generally goes through more rigorous testing than certain foreign grown plants.
• Request the Lab Results – Any reputable CBD brand will have their third-party lab test results available, either on their website or via request. If a company seems sketchy online, it probably is.

DIY THC Gummies

For at-home cannabis chefs, gummies are fairly quick and easy to craft. Here is one of our favorite recipes:

Final Thought

In addition to being a quick and tasty way to discreetly medicate, THC Gummies offer long-lasting, and sometimes powerful effects in a tiny package. A favorite for DIY edible makers and big brands alike, THC gummies are certain to remain a force to be reckoned with.

Ready to try them for the first time? Don’t forget to start low and go slow!