Edibles
Category: Retail & Distribution · Level: Beginner
Cannabis edibles are food and beverage products infused with cannabinoids (primarily THC or CBD) designed for oral consumption.
Cannabis edibles encompass any food or beverage infused with cannabis extracts or decarboxylated cannabis material. When consumed orally, THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent metabolite with longer-lasting effects compared to inhaled cannabis. This metabolic pathway explains why edible effects are slower to onset (30–90 minutes) and longer-lasting (4–8 hours). Dosing accuracy is a regulatory and safety challenge in the edibles category. Regulated markets mandate standardized dosing (typically 10mg THC per serving in the US, 2.5–5mg in Canada), tamper-proof child-resistant packaging, and clear labeling.
Also known as
Cannabis food, Infused food, Cannabis-infused products
Usage
- Medical
- Recreational
Related terms
- THC — Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, responsible for the 'high' associated with its use.
- Decarboxylation — Decarboxylation is the chemical process by which THCA is converted to THC through the application of heat, activating the psychoactive properties of cannabis.
- Dispensary — A dispensary is a licensed facility authorized to sell cannabis and cannabis products to consumers.