The cannabis industry stands on the cusp of a significant breakthrough as the groundbreaking study, “The Science of Smokeability” (SOS), promises to deliver insights that could reshape how cannabis is cultivated and processed with an eye on the consumer experience.
This two-year research project, spearheaded by DaySavers, the most compliant and tested pre-rolled cone and rolling paper brand, in collaboration with the Cannabis Research Coalition and The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy, aims to uncover the intricate relationship between cultivation practices and the quality of the smoking experience.
And unlike previous studies, the Science of Smokeability will combine laboratory reserach with consumer feedback on two pre-rolls supplied by DaySavers.
The potential impact of this study on the cannabis industry is far-reaching. At its core, the SOS study could trigger a paradigm shift in cultivation practices. While current growing methods primarily focus on maximizing yield and cannabinoid content, the study’s findings might reveal that certain techniques produce a superior smoking experience. This could lead to an industry-wide adoption of new growing techniques, nutrient regimens, and harvest timing strategies, all aimed at enhancing the final product’s smokeability.
Product development and quality control stand to benefit significantly from the study’s results. Armed with data on how various factors affect smoke quality, manufacturers can develop more refined products. We may see the emergence of new quality control measures based on smokeability metrics, potentially leading to premium product lines distinguished by their superior smoking characteristics.
Marketing strategies within the industry could also see a substantial shift to reflect the consumer experience. Understanding the science behind a good smoking experience will allow companies to market their products more effectively. New product categories might emerge, with cannabis strains or pre-rolls marketed based on their smoke quality rather than just their THC content or strain genetics.
Regulatory compliance is another area where the study’s impact could be profound. As Harrison Bard, CEO of DaySavers, points out, this research could pave the way for “a safer and more enjoyable future for the cannabis industry where quality and standards are at the forefront.” The study’s results may inform new industry standards and regulations, particularly in states hesitant to permit smokable flower due to health concerns.
Sustainability and efficiency in cannabis production could see improvements if the study reveals that certain cultivation practices not only improve smoke quality but also save resources. This aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and could drive the industry towards more sustainable production methods.
Product consistency, a persistent challenge in the cannabis industry, could be greatly enhanced by the study’s findings. The scientific basis provided by the SOS study could lead to greater consistency in product quality, enhancing brand reliability and consumer trust.
Health and safety considerations are at the forefront of this research. By examining factors like the presence of nitrosamines (potential carcinogens) in cannabis smoke, the study could lead to the development of safer products. This could be a significant selling point for health-conscious consumers and may help address some of the health concerns surrounding cannabis use.
Innovation in pre-roll production is another exciting prospect, with Custom Cones USA planning experiments on infused pre-rolls. Understanding how different infusion processes affect burn temperature and cannabinoid delivery could lead to more effective and enjoyable infused products.
The collaborative nature of this study also sets a new standard for industry-wide cooperation in research. This model of shared knowledge could accelerate innovation across the sector and may highlight untapped areas for investment within the cannabis industry. Companies that quickly adapt to the findings could gain a competitive edge, attracting not only more customers, but investor interest.
Lastly, the results of the SOS study are likely to become essential knowledge for industry professionals and even regulators. We may see this information incorporated into training programs for cultivators, product developers, and budtenders, elevating the overall expertise within the industry. Additionally, results from the Science of Smokeability study will be shared with ASTM International, an organization that establishes widely recognized industry standards, and will provide regulators with a solid basis for informed cannabis policy decisions.
“This cross-departmental research collaboration extends beyond mere acquisition of sustainable and profitable cultivation and post-harvest metrics; we are actively establishing the benchmarks for ensuring the highest standards in producing flower intended for combustion” said Allison Justice, PhD, founder of the Cannabis Research Coalition.
As the cannabis industry continues to mature, studies like SOS will be crucial in establishing a scientific foundation for best practices. The results, expected to start rolling out in the coming months, could mark the beginning of a new era in cannabis production and consumption, one driven by empirical data and a deeper understanding of the plant and its effects.
