Darren Anderson

WHAT ABOUT THE TERPS?! It seems like many producers worldwide are heavily focused on high THC percentages, to the point where, in Canada, they’ve stopped listing the percentage of terpenes on finished in-store products. This is especially surprising with live resin carts, where the emphasis should be on the terpenes. What many people don’t realize is that a high percentage of terpenes can enhance the effects of THC. Terpenes, THC, and CBD work synergistically. When producers omit the terpene percentages from their products, it raises the question: Do they even have significant terpene content? Low or absent terpene levels are a major problem in my opinion. The masses in this new industry need to learn about terpenes just as much as they do about THC and CBD. Despite often listing negligible amounts of CBD, they still include the percentage on finished products. What’s the highest terpene percentage you've achieved on lab-tested finished flower? Do you cultivate for terpenes, THC, or both? It's wild that so many don't discuss the flavor and medical benefits of terpenes. The “super high THC, forget the rest” culture needs to change. Experienced growers have a responsibility to educate others about terpenes and their benefits. I love THC as much as the next person, but I appreciate the combination of terpenes, THC, and CBD even more. When a strain is named “watermelon” but doesn’t smell like watermelon, the name loses its meaning. Terpene profiles tailored to individual medical needs represent the future of medical cannabis IMO. If new patients and consumers understood what they’re missing, they’d change their ways—like avoiding wet weed trimming and rack drying, which kill terpenes. What if I told you I’ve achieved over 20% terpenes on dry flower tested at a Canadian federal lab? Would you believe it, or would I need to post the terpene tests to prove it? When I shared this once before, I was called a liar, which was disheartening. I took down the post because it wasn’t worth the headache. You can't pay off or fake results from Canadian federal labs. 🌲

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Kalamazoo's plan to reduce PFAS in drinking water The city of Kalamazoo, Michigan, has unveiled a plan to filter PFAS chemicals from its drinking water to comply with stricter federal regulations. The initiative is part of a state loan proposal that includes consolidating and upgrading two water pumps. The plan is included in a $91 million proposal for Michigan's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, which also includes extending water mains and replacing lead service lines. Without state funding, the plan would add about $8 a month to the average water bill. The city aims to have the new system up and running by the fall of 2028 to meet the 2029 compliance deadline. https://lnkd.in/dvm34CY8 Raising awareness among government agencies and industry to invest in innovative scientific projects is critical to developing new methods for PFAS bioremediation. ASPIDIA is leading this effort, but we need your support to keep the project moving forward (https://www.aspidia.com/). Join us in creating a future of cleaner water and a healthier environment! #pfas #foreverchemicals #bioremediation #enzymes #cleanwaters #health

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We help Canadian mushroom start-ups and existing farmer's produce top-quality mushrooms for the local market. Based on Brantford, Ontario - we service all of Canada. Growing commercially doesn't have to be complicated. Let us help you by providing you with the best quality inputs. Our commercial mushroom blocks are the perfect solution for any farmer who is looking to expand into mushroom cultivation. Or any individual who is looking to get started selling mushrooms locally. We can help you grow money! These commercial growing blocks can yield up to 2-3 lbs of fresh mushrooms, which means profits for your business. So if you've ever considered operating a mushroom grow but don't know where to start, it's time to give us a call. Operating a farm doesn't mean that you have to do it all. Do most farmers produce their own seeds or do they buy them each year? This is no different. It baffles me when I hear someone who wants to do every aspect of the growing themselves. From Agar, to Grain, to Bulk Substrate is too many variables for most small farms to take on. Then, on top of that, throw in the fact that you have to sell the mushrooms. But, when will you have time? We can help you get that time back. After all, your desired result is more sales and by narrowing your focus you will likely achieve those results, and beyond! But if you try to manage everything on your own, I wish you luck. For those who want to Excel at doing one thing, and doing it right, give me a call today. We have limited spots available at our current capacity, so it's best to get started right away to ensure you can get in on this opportunity to grow. Andrew Langevin 1-647-449-7396 sales@naturelion.ca

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*Cannabis* has indeed evolved significantly over the years, and today's strains are notably different from those of the past. Here are some reasons why: 1. **Increased THC Levels:** - **THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)**, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, has seen a substantial increase in potency over the last few decades. - Research from the **Potency Monitoring Program** shows that the average THC content in cannabis has **more than tenfold** since the 1970s¹. - Growers have selectively bred strains to enhance THC levels, resulting in more potent cannabis. 2. **Breeding Techniques:** - Modern cannabis cultivators employ sophisticated breeding techniques to create strains with higher THC content. - **Sinsemilla**, a seedless variety of cannabis, contains significantly more THC-rich resin than regular seeded cannabis. Sinsemilla now constitutes a larger portion of available samples¹. - These breeding practices have contributed to the overall increase in potency. 3. **Shift in Consumption Methods:** - While dried flower remains popular, other forms of cannabis consumption have gained traction. - **Edibles**, **vapes**, and **concentrates** (such as hash oil) allow for precise dosing and can be packed with higher THC levels¹. - These alternative methods contribute to the perception of stronger cannabis. 4. **Homegrown vs. Imported:** - In the past, much cannabis was imported from countries like **Colombia**. These shipments often contained stems, seeds, and fan leaves along with THC-rich flower buds. - Today, cannabis is predominantly **homegrown** or locally cultivated, resulting in fresher and more potent products². 5. **CBD and THC Ratios:** - Some studies indicate that today's cannabis contains **3-10 times more THC** than mid-20th-century samples, with a decrease in CBD levels⁴. - The wider gap between CBD and THC ratios contributes to the overall potency. Advancements in breeding, cultivation practices, and consumption methods have led to the significant difference between today's cannabis and that of the past. 🌿⁵¹ Source: Conversation with Copilot, 5/20/2024 (1) Is cannabis today really much more potent than 50 years ago?. https://lnkd.in/giE4hDcj. (2) FAQ: Why does today's cannabis seem so much more potent than years ago .... https://lnkd.in/guj6xpZF. (3) Marijuana Today vs. Marijuana From the '70s: Is There a Difference in .... https://lnkd.in/g-j4vb4V. (4) Why Is Cannabis Now So Different From 1970s Cannabis?. https://lnkd.in/gCpNayDU. (5) Modern Day Weed vs. Hippie Weed - Herb. https://lnkd.in/gKkpnvX4. (6) Weed Is Stronger Now Than Ever Before -

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Subjects display few changes in simulated driving performance following the ingestion of THC-infused edible products, according to data published in the Journal of Cannabis Research. Investigators affiliated with the University of Toronto assessed simulated driving behavior in 22 subjects prior to and following the ingestion of THC-infused edibles. Edibles contained, on average, 7.3 mg of THC. Subjects’ driving performance was assessed at two, four, and six hours. Study participants were primarily “frequent users of cannabis for recreational purposes.” Researchers reported: “Compared to [baseline], cannabis edibles produced a decrease in mean speed 2 hours after consumption. … No changes in standard deviation of lateral position (SDLP; ‘weaving’), maximum speed, standard deviation of speed or reaction time were found at any time point.” Some participants expressed a lesser willingness to drive following cannabis ingestion https://lnkd.in/g6g6Vkz9

Why is there a discrepancy between what customers want and what is currently available for dried flower at the OCS Ontario Cannabis Store? There are #420 dried flower products available on the OCS, with 251 products between 30-39% #THC. Once again, this concentration of #cannabis in #driedflower is unlikely, especially when it accounts for almost 60% of available dried flower on the OCS. Thankfully the SQDC bans products over 30% THC, though this only partially addresses the issue with THC inflation as companies could try to get as close to 30% without going over. In contrast, almost half of the best-selling flower are #balanced #strains (1:1 or #CBD dominant)! Perhaps there is a #misconception that customers want the highest THC available. Addressing this disconnect could help the process for traits beyond THC. What mechanisms should be in place to provide customers with what they want?

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Breaking: The federal government today has proposed to advance a Proclamation under the Farm Products Agencies Act that would create a "Canadian Industrial Hemp Promotion-Research Agency" to "efficiently coordinate the use of funds for promotion and research activities to advance competitiveness in domestic and international markets." One of its objectives is to "promote the consumption of hemp products in the Canadian market" and "advertise and promote consumption of farm products in both domestic and international markets." Levy contributions will be collected from buyers of primary hemp products from licensed hemp cultivators and importers of primary and processed hemp products. The proposed levy is 0.5% of the value of the sales of hemp products. This will be similar to and a replacement for the 0.5% voluntary checkoff currently paid to the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance (CHTA). What do we think of this? The regulatory proposal can be viewed here: https://lnkd.in/gkVd84na (h/t to CodifyLaws.com for providing the tool that brought this new development to my attention)

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Great article on Canada's hemp fibre: https://lnkd.in/dMmuGhrh “It is safe to assume that hemp can produce about four to five times more fibre per hectare than forest,” Slaski says. “On average, boreal forest produces one-to-two tons per hectare of biomass per year, while fibre-type varieties of hemp produce eight-to-ten tons per hectare.” That’s with one crop. In warmer climates, two crops a year can be grown. Discover the Difference: Our Canadian hemp seeds offer purity, quality, and sustainability, setting new standards in the South African hemp industry. Learn More: https://lnkd.in/dyhC8CRm #HempFibre #CanadianHemp #SustainableFarming #HempIndustry #FibreProduction #AgriculturalInnovation #EcoFriendlyMaterials #HempSeeds #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateSmartFarming

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The new changes to the Canadian Cannabis Act. Some examples of the new changes. • The removal of the 1 gram dried cannabis discrete unit limit means we may see 30 gram pre-rolls. I think we’ll definitely see a 30 gram pre-roll SKU. Or more than one SKU. • The removal of the 10mg THC limit in outermost containers means that an outermost package of edible could contain an aggregate of up to 450g of edibles. Edibles can’t contain more than 3% THC by weight, meaning an outermost container can have up to a staggering 13,500 THC! There is a caveat though: Each immediate container can only have up to 10mg THC. So unless you’re ready to release a SKU that has 1,350 immediate containers - which must be packaged and labelled in the same manner as an outermost package, we’re not going to see this. Though it’ll be a fun race to see how many immediate containers producers are able to put into one SKU! • The ability for producers to use denatured ethyl alcohol in inhalable cannabis extracts means we may see inhalers/puffers and vapes similar to existing nicotine vapes that don’t require a heat source. Good for the environment too! • Transparent packages and cut-out windows means we will see some great packaging being done and it’s gonna matter now more than ever whether your dried flower has bag appeal! • Removal of non-Total THC/CBD labelling, no-expiry-date statements, and enabling the use of QR codes means we will see smaller packages - better for the environment too! • The expansion of the ability for a product to have multiple containers from just edible cannabis to other classes of cannabis includes provisions that an extract, edible or topical SKU could contain different sizes as between the immediate containers and a topical or edible could have different properties as between the immediate containers as long as the concentration/quantity of cannabinoids remains the same between them; something which wasn’t allowed before. No such restrictions are imposed on dried cannabis. While extracts still can’t have more than 1000mg THC per immediate container, as stated above a SKU could contain more than one immediate container.

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**Cannabis products** being sold at gas stations can be a **complex and risky** situation. Some key points: 1. **Delta-8 THC Products**: - **Availability**: Delta-8 THC products are **widely available** in the U.S., including gas stations and corner stores. - **Legal Status**: Delta-8 THC is considered legal in all 50 states as a synthetic alternative to cannabis. - **Effects**: These products can still produce a **"high"**, despite being touted for their moderate effects. - **Adverse Reactions**: Over **2,300 cases of accidental poisoning** (in adults and children) related to delta-8 have been reported. - **Unregulated**: The real concern is that delta-8 products are **unregulated**, meaning there's no guarantee they contain what the label says⁴. 2. **Synthetic Cannabis ("Gas Station Heroin")**: - Some so-called **gas station heroin products** marketed as mood-boosting supplements have been found to contain **synthetic cannabis**. - These products are often labeled as aiding alertness or energy but may pose serious risks⁵. 3. **CBD-Infused Products**: - In states where marijuana is legal, **licensed dispensaries** sell edibles. - Gas stations and convenience stores in some states may sell **CBD-infused products**. - CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis and is legal in most states⁶. 4. **Future Trends**: - Circle K, a global convenience-store chain, has signed a deal to sell **licensed marijuana** at its Florida gasoline retailers starting next year⁷. Remember that the quality and safety of these products can vary significantly. Always exercise caution, read labels, and consider seeking professional advice before consuming any cannabis-related products. 🌿🛒🔍⁴⁵⁶⁷ Source: Conversation with Copilot, 5/26/2024 (1) Delta-8 THC: Experts Warn That Not All Cannabis ... - Healthline. https://lnkd.in/gs4eB9NF. (2) Lab Testing Detects Synthetic Pot in ‘Gas Station Heroin’ - WebMD. https://lnkd.in/gWtxwFda. (3) Exploring the World of Edibles at Gas Stations - ONLYGAS. https://lnkd.in/gaeqkfu5. (4) Cannabis products coming to Circle K gas stations in U.S. next year. https://lnkd.in/g2CPimea. (5) . https://lnkd.in/gcyxB2cW. (6) Tokyo Smoke Windsor Devonshire Mall. https://lnkd.in/grx3hd9b. (7) Cannabis Counsel Law Firm. https://lnkd.in/gjw7x-Fi.

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This doesn't seem to be a very good idea that might have downstream implications that could be lead to a domino effect: man destroys forests, threatening and killing off the caribou population...so man has the bright idea to try and fix things by destroying again, this time by killing wolves...but then what is thrown out of whack by the lowered wolf population?....are the moose and deer populations going to skyrocket?...do we then keep altering/killing animals to try and fix what we ourselves messed up in the first place? 🙄 This is why we can't have nice things like the Earth. #earthday #earthdaypost #motherearth #logging #recycle #compost #reuse "There is little disagreement about the root cause of the caribou’s plight. Logging of old growth forests has cut away at habitat preferred by southern mountain caribou—a type of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) that occupies swaths of south and central British Columbia and Alberta and, until recently, parts of northern Idaho and Washington state. The shrubs that grow back in these logged mountainous areas attract moose and deer, which in turn draw more wolves. The numbers of southern mountain caribou in North America have dwindled from roughly 10,000 animals in 1991 to a little more than 4700 in 2023. Fifteen of 41 herds have either vanished or are so small that scientists don’t think they will last for long." https://lnkd.in/gGZWqmaw

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REAL hemp contains no marketable THC and CBD should be a by-product of hemp. Hemp is a fiber crop and should be a commodity and put into rotation will replenish soil and the tap root will help break up the clay so additional crops can be farmed. There are literally thousands of uses for hemp and the US is behind the rest of the world in fiber production! Removing THC to medicinal or pharma and FDA regulations required will promote the development of a real hemp industry!

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Large surface area graphene was synthesized from hemp bast fiber as a sustainable resource that can be potentially used in different fields such as supercapacitors, batteries, sensors, and catalysis. This looks promising!!!! https://lnkd.in/gcb_h6Hu

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How many cannabis and hemp products exist? How many possible product variations might there be? This article attempts to estimate these numbers. While definitive statements on this subject are not possible, this article aims to offer a thoughtful exploration. My objective with these calculations is modest: to share my thinking and understanding of this topic in the hope that it will stimulate further exploration (and maybe collaborative data collection and analysis efforts). And, perhaps through my errors—though I hope they are few in this article—bring new insights. https://lnkd.in/emE6Hn5G

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