Quality Control: How to Shop for Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC Edibles

Navigating the world of cannabis edibles, particularly those derived from hemp, can sometimes feel like a journey through a wild, uncharted territory. While shopping in a dispensary, you know each product has been thoroughly tested for quality and purity, and that the ingredients list is accurate. 

In the online world of hemp-derived products, things can get a little wily. That doesn’t mean you should avoid them, just that you need to get a bit more savvy about sussing out what’s suspect, and learning how to shop for the best.

With the rise of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC edibles, understanding the nuances of quality control and safety standards has never been more critical. This guide will help you discern high-quality edibles, identify red flags, and make informed choices.

The Importance of Testing and Certification

 All marijuana-derived THC products go through rigorous testing protocols before they ever hit a dispensary’s shelves. This is also partly why the cost of marijuana vs. hemp-derived THC is so much higher. The path to getting there is filled with regulatory hurdles. Many of which we are grateful for! However—hemp brands can still adhere to quality standards and still be able to sell their products online. 

Of course, not everyone does. That’s why it’s so important to vet each brand you consider buying from first. The most important thing to look for is test results from a certified lab. 

Third-Party Lab Testing

 To ensure safety and potency, reputable companies invest in third-party lab testing. This testing should check for cannabinoid content, ensuring the THC levels are within the legal limit of 0.3% by dry weight, and screen for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and molds. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) should be readily available and easily accessible to consumers. 

If you don’t see this on the product page itself, scroll down to the bottom of the site, you’ll typically find a collection of lab CoA’s there.

Accredited Laboratories

 Not all labs are created equal. High-quality edible manufacturers will use ISO/IEC-accredited laboratories for testing. This accreditation is a mark of reliability and standards compliance, providing an additional layer of trust and assurance.

Understanding Dosing and Potency

 After scoping out the lab tests, carefully review the dosing information on the packaging. High-quality edibles will have clear, easy-to-understand labeling that specifies the exact amount of Delta-9 THC per serving, alongside a visual or written guide on what constitutes a single serving (e.g., one gummy, half a chocolate square). This clarity helps avoid confusion and ensures accurate dosing.

One of the hallmarks of a reputable edible brand is consistent potency across servings. Every product should indicate how much THC is in each serving and the total number of servings per package. This consistency is especially crucial for consumers who rely on edibles for medicinal purposes, as it allows them to anticipate the effects accurately and adjust dosing to meet their needs.

In addition to THC content, good packaging should include dosage recommendations, especially for new or sensitive users. Some edibles even offer tiered dosing guidelines, allowing consumers to start with a lower dose and gradually increase until they find their desired effect. 

As we know, you can always take more, but you can’t take less! Be certain that the product you’re buying makes it easy for you to dose appropriately.

Natural Ingredients and Flavors

 When it comes to hemp-derived Delta-9 THC edibles, the goal isn't just to experience the effects of THC; it's also about enjoying what you eat. That's why it's essential to choose edibles that you would enjoy even without the cannabis content. High-quality edible brands understand this and prioritize natural flavors and wholesome ingredients that make each bite enjoyable.

The use of organic fruits for flavoring, natural colorants, and minimal additives enhances not only the taste but also the overall quality of the product. This approach ensures that you're indulging in a treat that's as delightful on the palate as it is effective.

Remember, the best edible is one that you would happily munch on, THC or no THC, because enjoying what you consume is just as important as the benefits it offers. And, it should go without saying, but check for any allergens or ingredients you wish to avoid before digging in.

Red Flags in the Hemp Edible Market

Navigating the hemp edible market can be tricky, especially with the varying levels of quality and transparency among brands. Here are some red flags to watch out for when choosing your hemp-derived THC products:

Lack of Transparency

 A major red flag is a brand's lack of transparency regarding the sourcing of their hemp and the specifics of their manufacturing processes. Trustworthy companies will be clear about where their hemp is grown and provide details about their production methods.

Unverified Health Claims

 Be cautious of brands that claim miraculous health benefits without scientific evidence to back them up. Reputable companies provide realistic information about what their products can do, avoiding exaggerated claims about their effects.

Poor Customer Service

 A lack of responsive customer service can be a warning sign of a company’s lack of commitment to consumer satisfaction. Reliable brands offer robust support and are willing to answer questions about their products. Double-check that there’s a way to reach a real person through their website.

Unprofessional Packaging

 Products that come in unprofessional, unclear, or poorly labeled packaging can indicate a lack of care and compliance with industry standards. Proper packaging should include clear labeling with dosage information, ingredients, and usage instructions.

Absence of Lab Testing

 Products without accessible, third-party lab results, or Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) should be approached with caution. These tests ensure the product is free of harmful contaminants and accurately labeled for THC content.

No Product Reviews or Community Feedback

 A complete absence of reviews or customer feedback might indicate that the product is new or has not been well-received by the market. Reliable products usually have a history of customer satisfaction reflected in positive reviews.

Suspiciously Low Prices

 While everyone loves a good deal, unusually low prices can sometimes indicate substandard products or corners being cut in production and sourcing. Quality hemp-derived products often require significant investment in safe manufacturing practices and quality hemp, which isn't usually dirt cheap.

Inconsistent Product Offerings

 Companies that frequently change their product lineup or are inconsistent with availability might be experiencing issues with product quality or supply chain reliability. Consistency can be a sign of a brand’s operational stability and product reliability.

Old Pal’s Approach to Quality Control

As we gear up for our launch of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products, we want you to rest assured that we’ve taken every step to bring you a high-quality, efficacious product that tastes amazing. And, of course, gets your mind right!