Everything You Need to Know About Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles in 2024

Cannabinoid-infused edibles are becoming increasingly popular as more people explore alternative methods of consuming cannabis. These edibles, which can come in a variety of forms, offer a discreet and convenient way to experience the effects of cannabinoids. Today, we will be going over what cannabinoid-infused edibles are, different types and more!

A Brief History of Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles

Cannabinoid-infused edibles have a long and storied history. Ancient cultures, including those in China and India, used cannabis for medicinal and spiritual purposes, often incorporating it into their food and drink. In India, for example, a traditional beverage called "bhang" is made by blending cannabis leaves and flowers with milk, spices, and other ingredients.

The modern era of cannabinoid-infused edibles began in the 1960s and 1970s with the rise of the counterculture movement in the United States. "Hash brownies" became a popular way to consume cannabis discreetly. Over the years, the edibles market has evolved, becoming more sophisticated and diverse, especially with the legalization of cannabis in various parts of the world.

Most Common Types of Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles

Cannabinoid-infused edibles come in a wide range of products, each offering unique experiences and flavors.

Type #1: Gummies

These are among the most popular edibles due to their convenience, taste, and precise dosing. They come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, often resembling traditional gummy candies.

Cannabinoid-infused gummies are made through a detailed process that combines traditional gummy manufacturing techniques with the infusion of cannabinoids. Translation, combining culinary techniques with precise scientific methods to create a consistent and enjoyable product,

1. Ingredient Preparation

• Cannabinoid Extraction: Cannabinoids like THC, CBD, or other specific compounds are extracted from cannabis or hemp plants. This can be done using various methods such as CO₂ extraction, ethanol extraction, or other solvent-based methods to ensure a pure and potent extract.
• Flavoring and Coloring: Natural or artificial flavors and colors are prepared. These give the gummies an appealing taste and appearance.

2. Creating the Gummy Base

• Gelatin or Pectin Preparation: Depending on the desired texture and dietary preferences (vegan or non-vegan), either gelatin (animal-derived) or pectin (plant-derived) is used. This substance is dissolved in water and heated to create a thick, sticky base.
• Sugar and Corn Syrup: These are mixed into the heated gelatin or pectin mixture to sweeten the gummies and create the desired chewy texture.
• Acids: Citric acid or other food acids are added to provide a tangy taste and to help preserve the gummies.

3. Infusing Cannabinoids

• Emulsification: The cannabinoid extract is emulsified to ensure it blends evenly throughout the gummy mixture. This often involves mixing the cannabinoids with a carrier oil (like MCT oil) and a surfactant (like lecithin) to create a homogenous mixture.
• Incorporation into Gummy Base: The emulsified cannabinoids are then thoroughly mixed into the heated gummy base to ensure even distribution.

4. Molding and Setting

• Pouring into Molds: The gummy mixture is poured into molds. These molds can be in various shapes and sizes, depending on the desired final product.
• Cooling and Setting: The filled molds are allowed to cool and set. This process can be accelerated using refrigeration.

5. Demolding and Coating

• Demolding: Once set, the gummies are removed from the molds.
• Coating: Gummies are often coated with a mixture of sugar and sometimes citric acid to prevent sticking and to add extra flavor.

6. Quality Control and Packaging

• Quality Control: Each batch is tested for potency, purity, and consistency to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. This includes testing for cannabinoid concentration and the absence of contaminants. Also, adhering to local regulations regarding the production and sale of cannabinoid-infused products is essential.
• Packaging: The finished gummies are packaged in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent degradation of cannabinoids.

Type #2: Candies

Like gummies, candies also have convenience, taste, and precise dosing. They even come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors.

Making cannabinoid-infused candies involves several precise steps to ensure that the cannabinoids are evenly distributed and that the candies are of high quality.

1. Ingredient Preparation

• Cannabinoid Extraction: Cannabinoids (such as THC, CBD, or others) are extracted from cannabis or hemp plants using methods like CO₂ extraction, ethanol extraction, or other solvent-based techniques to ensure a high-quality extract.
• Flavoring and Coloring: Natural or artificial flavors and colors are prepared to give the candies their desired taste and appearance.

2. Creating the Candy Base

• Sugar Syrup Preparation: The base for most candies is sugary syrup. Sugar, corn syrup, and water are combined and heated to the desired temperature. The exact temperature depends on the type of candy being made (e.g., hard candy or soft candy).
• Temperature Control: For hard candies, the mixture is typically heated to around 300°F (150°C) to reach the hard crack stage. For softer candies, lower temperatures are used.

3. Infusing Cannabinoids

• Emulsification: The cannabinoid extract is mixed with a carrier oil (such as MCT oil) and a surfactant (such as lecithin) to create a homogenous emulsion. This ensures that the cannabinoids are evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.
• Incorporation into Candy Base: Once the sugar syrup reaches the desired temperature, the heat is reduced, and the emulsified cannabinoid mixture is carefully stirred into the syrup to ensure even distribution.

4. Flavoring and Coloring

• Adding Flavors and Colors: After the cannabinoids are mixed in, flavors and colors are added to the candy mixture. This step must be done quickly to prevent the candy from hardening prematurely.

5. Molding and Setting

• Pouring into Molds: The infused candy mixture is poured into molds of the desired shapes and sizes. Silicone molds are often used for their ease of use and non-stick properties.
• Cooling and Setting: The filled molds are allowed to cool and set. For hard candies, this process can take place at room temperature. For softer candies, refrigeration may be used to speed up the setting process.

6. Demolding and Coating

• Demolding: Once the candies have set, they are removed from the molds.
• Optional Coating: Depending on the type of candy, they may be coated with sugar, citric acid, or another substance to prevent sticking and to add extra flavor.

7. Quality Control and Packaging

• Quality Control: Each batch is tested to ensure potency, purity, and consistency. This includes checking the cannabinoid concentration and ensuring there are no contaminants. Also, adhering to local regulations regarding the production and sale of cannabinoid-infused products is essential.
• Packaging: The finished candies are packaged in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent degradation of the cannabinoids.

Type #3: Chocolates

Cannabis-infused chocolates offer a luxurious and indulgent way to consume cannabinoids. They can be found in different cocoa percentages, from milk to dark chocolate, and often include additional ingredients like nuts or fruit.

Making cannabinoid-infused chocolates involves a precise process to ensure even distribution of cannabinoids and to maintain the quality of the chocolate.

1. Ingredient Preparation

• Cannabinoid Extraction: Extract cannabinoids (such as THC, CBD, or others) from cannabis or hemp plants using methods like CO₂ extraction, ethanol extraction, or other solvent-based techniques to ensure a pure and potent extract.
• Chocolate Selection: Choose high-quality chocolate (dark, milk, or white) for melting. The chocolate can be in the form of bars, chips, or couverture.
• Additional Ingredients: Depending on the recipe, you may need additional ingredients such as lecithin (for emulsification), flavorings, nuts, or dried fruits.

2. Melting the Chocolate

• Tempering the Chocolate: To achieve a glossy finish and a firm snap, chocolate needs to be tempered. This involves melting the chocolate to a specific temperature, cooling it down, and then gently reheating it.
• Melting: Heat the chocolate to 110-115°F (43-46°C) using a double boiler or a microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
• Cooling: Cool the chocolate to 80-82°F (27-28°C) by adding unmelted chocolate or placing the bowl in a cool water bath.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the chocolate to 88-90°F (31-32°C) for dark chocolate or slightly lower for milk and white chocolates.

3. Infusing Cannabinoids

• Emulsification: Combine the cannabinoid extract with a carrier oil (such as MCT oil) and an emulsifier like lecithin. This ensures that the cannabinoids are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate.
• Incorporation into Chocolate: Add the emulsified cannabinoid mixture to the tempered chocolate, stirring thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.

4. Molding and Setting

• Pouring into Molds: Pour the infused chocolate into molds. The molds can be in various shapes and sizes, such as bars, truffles, or other shapes.
• Tapping Out Air Bubbles: Gently tap the molds on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
• Cooling and Setting: Allow the chocolate to cool and set at room temperature or in a refrigerator, depending on the ambient temperature.

5. Demolding and Finishing

• Demolding: Once the chocolate has completely set, carefully remove it from the molds.
• Optional Decoration: If desired, decorate the chocolates with drizzles of contrasting chocolate, edible gold leaf, or other edible decorations.

6. Quality Control and Packaging

• Quality Control: Each batch is tested to ensure potency, purity, and consistency. This includes checking the cannabinoid concentration and ensuring there are no contaminants. Also, adhering to local regulations regarding the production and sale of cannabinoid-infused products is essential.
• Packaging: The finished chocolates are packaged in airtight containers or individual wrappers to maintain freshness and prevent degradation of the cannabinoids.

Type #4: Baked Goods

Brownies, cookies, and cakes infused with cannabinoids are classic edibles. These homemade treats have evolved into professionally made products available in dispensaries, offering consistent dosing and high quality.

Crafting cannabinoid-infused baked goods involves a detailed process to ensure even distribution of cannabinoids and maintain the quality of the baked product.

1. Ingredient Preparation

• Cannabinoid Extraction: Extract cannabinoids (such as THC, CBD, or others) from cannabis or hemp plants using methods like CO₂ extraction, ethanol extraction, or other solvent-based techniques to ensure a pure and potent extract.
• Cannabutter or Cannabis Oil: Cannabinoids are typically infused into butter or oil, which is then used in baking recipes. This infusion process is crucial for creating evenly dosed baked goods.

2. Making Cannabutter or Cannabis Oil

• Decarboxylation: Before infusing, the cannabis must be decarboxylated to activate the cannabinoids. This is done by heating the cannabis at a low temperature.
  • Method: Spread the cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 240°F (115°C) for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Infusion: Infuse the decarboxylated cannabis into butter or oil.
  • Butter: Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the decarboxylated cannabis, and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain through a cheesecloth to remove plant material.
  • Oil: Combine the oil and decarboxylated cannabis in a slow cooker or double boiler. Heat on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain through a cheesecloth.

3. Baking the Goods

• Selecting a Recipe: Choose a recipe for baked goods such as cookies, brownies, cakes, or muffins. Adjust the recipe to include the cannabutter or cannabis oil.
• Preparation: Gather all the ingredients as per the chosen recipe. Ensure accurate measurement of cannabutter or cannabis oil to control dosage.

4. Mixing Ingredients

• Creaming: If the recipe calls for butter, cream the cannabutter with sugar until light and fluffy. If using oil, combine the cannabis oil with sugar and mix well.
• Adding Dry Ingredients: Mix in the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, etc.) as per the recipe.
• Incorporating Wet Ingredients: Add wet ingredients (eggs, milk, vanilla extract, etc.) and mix until well combined.

5. Baking

• Preheating the Oven: Preheat the oven to the temperature specified in the recipe.
• Baking Time: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or mold. Bake for the time specified in the recipe, checking for doneness with a toothpick or cake tester.

6. Cooling and Serving

• Cooling: Allow the baked goods to cool completely in the pan before cutting or serving. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
• Serving Size: Cut the baked goods into uniform pieces to ensure consistent dosage.

7. Quality Control and Packaging

• Quality Control: Test each batch to ensure potency, purity, and consistency. This includes checking the cannabinoid concentration and ensuring there are no contaminants. Also, adhering to local regulations regarding the production and sale of cannabinoid-infused products is essential.
• Packaging: Package the baked goods in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent degradation of the cannabinoids. Label the packaging with dosage information.

Type #5: Beverages

Infused drinks, including teas, coffees, sodas, and even alcoholic beverages, provide a refreshing alternative to traditional edibles. These products often feature quick onset times due to their liquid form.

Creating cannabinoid-infused beverages involves a precise process to ensure that the cannabinoids are evenly distributed and remain stable in the liquid. Here’s a detailed step-by-step overview:

1. Ingredient Preparation

• Cannabinoid Extraction: Extract cannabinoids (such as THC, CBD, or others) from cannabis or hemp plants using methods like CO₂ extraction, ethanol extraction, or other solvent-based techniques to ensure a pure and potent extract.
• Emulsification Agents: Cannabinoids are hydrophobic and need to be emulsified to mix well with water-based beverages. Emulsifiers like lecithin, gum arabic, or other food-grade emulsifiers are used.
• Flavoring and Sweeteners: Depending on the type of beverage, natural or artificial flavors and sweeteners are prepared.

2. Creating the Cannabinoid Emulsion

• Decarboxylation: Before emulsifying, the cannabis must be decarboxylated to activate the cannabinoids. This is done by heating the cannabis at a low temperature.
  • Method: Spread the cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 240°F (115°C) for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Emulsification: Mix the decarboxylated cannabinoid extract with an emulsifier and a carrier oil (such as MCT oil) to create a water-soluble emulsion.
  • High-Shear Mixing: Use a high-shear mixer or homogenizer to blend the cannabinoids, emulsifier, and carrier oil until a stable emulsion is formed. This process breaks down the cannabinoids into nano-sized particles that can be evenly dispersed in water.

3. Preparing the Beverage Base

• Water or Liquid Base: Start with the primary liquid base of the beverage, which could be water, juice, tea, coffee, or any other liquid.
• Mixing: Combine the liquid base with other ingredients such as flavors, sweeteners, and any additional functional ingredients like vitamins or minerals.

4. Infusing the Beverage

• Adding Cannabinoid Emulsion: Slowly add the cannabinoid emulsion to the prepared beverage base while continuously stirring to ensure even distribution.
• Ensuring Stability: Use stabilizers if necessary to maintain the homogeneity of the beverage and prevent the cannabinoids from separating out.

5. Bottling and Pasteurization

• Bottling: Once the cannabinoid-infused beverage is well-mixed, it is poured into bottles or cans. Ensure that the filling process minimizes exposure to air to prevent oxidation.
• Pasteurization: Depending on the type of beverage and its ingredients, pasteurization may be required to ensure safety and extend shelf life. This can be done using heat pasteurization or cold pasteurization methods like High Pressure Processing (HPP).

6. Quality Control and Packaging

• Quality Control: Each batch is tested to ensure potency, purity, and consistency. This includes checking the cannabinoid concentration and ensuring there are no contaminants. Also, adhering to local regulations regarding the production and sale of cannabinoid-infused products is essential.
• Packaging: The finished beverages are sealed in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent degradation of the cannabinoids. Label the packaging with dosage information and any relevant legal information.

Making Your Own Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles

For those interested in making their own edibles, it's essential to understand the process of decarboxylation. This process activates the cannabinoids in raw cannabis, converting THCA into THC and CBDA into CBD. Here's a basic guide to making your own edibles:

1. Decarboxylate the Cannabis: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread the cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Infuse the Cannabis: Combine the decarboxylated cannabis with a fat source (e.g., butter, coconut oil) and heat on low for several hours. Strain out the plant material to obtain the infused oil or butter.
3. Incorporate into Recipes: Use the infused oil or butter in your favorite recipes, replacing the regular fat source with the infused one.

The Science Behind Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles

The effects of cannabinoid-infused edibles are primarily due to the presence of cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). When ingested, these compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes.

Onset and Duration

The onset and duration of effects from edibles can vary significantly compared to other methods of consumption. When cannabinoids are ingested, they pass through the digestive system before being absorbed into the bloodstream. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on factors like metabolism, the presence of food in the stomach, and the individual's tolerance.

Once the effects begin, they can last much longer than those from smoking or vaping, often between 4 to 8 hours. This prolonged duration makes edibles a preferred choice for those seeking sustained relief from symptoms or a longer-lasting recreational experience.

Pros & Cons of Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles

Pros:

1. Discreet Consumption: Edibles are easy to consume without drawing attention, making them ideal for those who prefer to keep their cannabis use private.
2. Long-Lasting Effects: The extended duration of effects from edibles can provide prolonged relief for medical users and a more enduring experience for recreational users.
3. No Inhalation Required: Edibles offer a smoke-free alternative, which is beneficial for those with respiratory issues or a preference for avoiding inhalation.
4. Precise Dosing: Many commercial edibles come with clearly labeled dosages, allowing users to control their intake more accurately.
5. Variety of Options: The wide range of edible products ensures that there is something for everyone, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Cons:

1. Delayed Onset: The delayed onset of effects can lead to overconsumption if users are not patient. It's crucial to start with a low dose and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
2. Variable Potency: Homemade edibles can have inconsistent potency, leading to unpredictable effects. It's advisable to purchase edibles from reputable sources to ensure accurate dosing.
3. Overconsumption: Consuming too much THC can result in unpleasant side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, and nausea. These effects are typically temporary but can be distressing.
4. Intoxication: Edibles can produce strong psychoactive effects, which may impair judgment and coordination. Users should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence.
5. Interactions with Medications: Cannabinoids can interact with certain medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications.

The Future of Cannabinoid-Infused Edibles

The cannabinoid-infused edibles market is expected to continue growing as more states legalize cannabis and consumer interest increases. Innovations in extraction and infusion techniques will likely lead to more precise dosing and a wider variety of products. Additionally, research into the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids will continue to drive interest in edibles for medicinal use.

Experience an Edible Way to Truly Enjoy Your Favorite Cannabinoids!

Cannabinoid-infused edibles offer a versatile, discreet, and enjoyable way to consume cannabis. Whether you're seeking non-psychoactive cannabinoid edibles or psychoactive cannabinoid edibles, understanding the science, pros & cons, other considerations will help you make the right choice. Also, by starting with low doses, reading labels carefully, and storing edibles safely, you can enjoy the many benefits that cannabinoid-infused edibles have to offer. Again, as the hemp marketplace continues to evolve, the future promises even more exciting developments in the world of cannabis-infused edibles, especially here at The Calm Leaf.