Walking into a dispensary for the first time can feel a little overwhelming. Menus may include dozens of flower options, multiple concentrate formats, different edible strengths, prerolls, vapes, and products with cannabinoid and terpene information that isn't immediately familiar.
That's why there are several things What Cannabis Shoppers Should Know before making a purchase.
Colorado's regulated cannabis market gives consumers access to extensive product information, but knowing how to interpret that information can make shopping much easier. Instead of focusing on one number or one product category, shoppers can consider the entire picture.
The Options Cannabis home page is a good starting point for learning more about available products and the dispensary.
THC Isn't Everything
One of the first things What Cannabis Shoppers Should Know is that THC percentage isn't a complete measurement of cannabis quality.
THC is important, but two products with similar THC levels can have very different aromas, flavors, textures, and overall characteristics.
When shopping for flower, consider:
- THC percentage
- CBD and other cannabinoids
- Terpene profile
- Packaging date
- Cultivator
- Product appearance
- Freshness
A lower-THC product may be more appealing if it has the flavor, aroma, and characteristics you're looking for.
Read the Entire Label
Another important part of What Cannabis Shoppers Should Know is how to read product labels.
Depending on the product, you may see:
- THC
- THCA
- CBD
- CBG
- CBN
- Serving size
- Total package content
- Net weight
- Batch information
- Packaging dates
These details can provide considerably more information than a single THC percentage.
Consumers interested in learning more about cannabis labeling can visit the Options Cannabis FAQs for additional guidance.
Know the Difference Between Product Types
Different cannabis products are designed for different preferences.
Flower
Flower is the traditional cannabis format and gives consumers an opportunity to explore cultivars and terpene profiles.
Prerolls
Prerolls provide convenience because the product is already prepared for use.
Concentrates
Concentrates contain cannabinoids in a more concentrated form. They include products such as live resin, rosin, wax, and other extracts.
Edibles
Edibles are consumed rather than inhaled. Serving size is particularly important because the effects can take longer to become noticeable.
Vapes
Vape products offer another inhaled format and can be convenient for consumers who prefer a portable option.
The Prerolls page provides more information for consumers interested in this convenient format.
Freshness Is Worth Checking
Something else What Cannabis Shoppers Should Know is that cannabis isn't necessarily better simply because it has a high potency.
Freshness can have a noticeable impact on flower quality. Older or improperly stored flower may lose aroma and become excessively dry.
When possible, check packaging dates and ask about recently received products. In Colorado's dry climate, proper packaging can be particularly important for preserving flower characteristics.
Consumers can also ask budtenders which products have been popular recently.
Ask Your Budtender Questions
Budtenders can be an excellent source of product information.
If you aren't sure what to buy, don't feel like you have to make the decision alone. Useful questions include:
- What's your freshest flower?
- Which products have the strongest terpene profiles?
- What cultivators are especially consistent?
- What's popular right now?
- Are there any current promotions?
- What product would you recommend for someone looking for something new?
Good questions can often narrow a large menu down to a few realistic options.
Check Deals Before Shopping
Another item on the list of What Cannabis Shoppers Should Know is that dispensary pricing can change frequently.
Checking promotions before visiting can help you understand what's currently discounted and whether a particular product category is offering better value.
The Options Cannabis Discounts page can be useful when comparing current promotions.
It's also worth remembering that the cheapest product isn't automatically the best value. A product that meets your preferences and provides a good experience may be a better purchase than something selected solely because it has the lowest price.
Shop From a Licensed Dispensary
Colorado's regulated cannabis system provides consumers with requirements surrounding product testing, labeling, packaging, and licensed sales.
Shopping through a licensed retailer gives consumers access to products sold through the regulated market.
If you're interested in learning more about Options Cannabis, the About Us page provides additional information about the dispensary.
Consider Your Own Preferences
Perhaps the most important thing What Cannabis Shoppers Should Know is that there isn't one product that is right for everyone.
Some shoppers prioritize high-potency flower. Others care more about flavor, aroma, freshness, or a particular product format.
Your own preferences can become easier to identify over time. Keep track of the products you enjoy, the cultivators you trust, and the terpene profiles that appeal to you.
That information can make future dispensary visits much simpler.
For additional cannabis education, the Options Cannabis Blog covers topics related to products, shopping, cultivation, and the Colorado cannabis industry.
https://www.colorado.com/articles/staying-right-side-marijuana-laws
