With so many products lined up on the shelves, each covered in numbers, percentages, and unfamiliar terms, it can be hard to know exactly what you’re buying. That’s where cannabis product labels come in.
Labels are more than just packaging. They’re your guide to what’s inside that jar of flower, box of pre-rolls, vape cartridge, tincture, or bag of gummies. Once you know how to read them, you’ll feel much more confident choosing the right product for your goals and preferences.
Let’s break down the key elements of a cannabis product label and what each one means for your experience.
THC Percentage: What It Really Means
One of the first things most people look at on a cannabis label is the THC percentage. This number tells you how much tetrahydrocannabinol, the compound responsible for the “high” feeling, is in the product.
- Low THC (under 10%): Great for beginners or those looking for a very mild, manageable experience.
- Moderate THC (10–20%): A balanced range that works for many consumers, offering noticeable effects without being too overwhelming.
- High THC (20% and above): Potent strains designed for experienced consumers or those with a high tolerance.
It’s important to remember that THC percentage is only one part of the story. A 25% THC flower may not feel stronger than a 20% flower if the terpene profile is different. Your body chemistry also plays a role, so don’t rely on THC alone to predict how you’ll feel.
CBD Content on Labels
Alongside THC, many cannabis labels also highlight CBD content. Cannabidiol (CBD) doesn’t produce intoxication, but it does interact with your endocannabinoid system in ways that can promote relaxation, reduce stress, or support overall balance.
- High CBD, low THC: Minimal psychoactive effects, often chosen for daytime use or wellness support.
- Balanced CBD and THC: A more even experience that many find smoother and easier to manage.
- High THC, low CBD: Stronger psychoactive effects with less balancing influence.
Understanding both THC and CBD percentages gives you a clearer picture of the type of experience to expect. For example, a 1:1 ratio product with equal parts THC and CBD may feel very different than one with 20% THC and almost no CBD.
Terpene Profiles: More Than Just Flavor
Labels increasingly include terpene profiles, which is good news because terpenes are critical to how cannabis affects you. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds responsible for the unique scents and flavors of cannabis strains, but they also influence effects.
Some of the most common terpenes include:
- Limonene: Citrus-scented, often linked with uplifting or energizing effects.
- Myrcene: Earthy and musky, frequently associated with relaxation or sleep support.
- Pinene: Piney aroma, may support focus and alertness.
- Linalool: Floral and calming, often connected to stress relief.
When you combine cannabinoids like THC and CBD with terpenes, you get what’s known as the entourage effect. This is the idea that cannabis compounds work better together than in isolation, enhancing and balancing each other’s effects.
If you’ve ever wondered why two strains with the same THC level feel totally different, the answer often lies in the terpene profile.
Serving Size and Dosage on Cannabis Labels
When it comes to edibles, beverages, or tinctures, labels become even more important. These products typically list:
- Milligrams of THC and CBD per serving
- Total cannabinoids in the entire package
- Recommended serving size
For example, a bag of gummies might say “100 mg THC per package, 10 mg per piece.” Knowing this breakdown helps you pace yourself and avoid consuming more than intended.
A good rule of thumb for beginners is to start low and go slow—often 2.5 to 5 mg of THC is enough to feel mild effects. Always check the serving size before diving in, since edibles can take longer to kick in and last longer than smoking or vaping.
Batch Numbers and Testing Information
Every licensed cannabis product should be tested for potency, safety, and purity. Labels usually include:
- Batch or lot number: Identifies when and where the product was produced.
- Testing date: Indicates how recently it was tested and packaged.
- Certificate of Analysis (COA): Sometimes provided via a QR code that links directly to lab results.
Testing is important because it verifies that the THC, CBD, and terpene numbers on the label are accurate. It also confirms the product is free from contaminants like pesticides, mold, or heavy metals. Always look for brands that share testing information transparently.
Expiration or “Packaged On” Dates
Cannabis is a plant, and like other natural products, it loses freshness over time. Many labels list either a “packaged on” date or an expiration date.
- Flower generally stays fresh for several months if stored properly, but after a year it may lose potency and aroma.
- Edibles and tinctures follow standard food expiration guidelines since they contain perishable ingredients.
- Vape cartridges can degrade if stored improperly, especially when exposed to light or heat.
Checking dates ensures you’re getting a product that will taste and perform as intended.
Other Information You’ll See on Cannabis Labels
Depending on your state and the type of product, cannabis labels may also include:
- Strain classification (sativa, indica, hybrid)
- Ingredients list for infused products like edibles or topicals
- Allergen information for products containing nuts, dairy, or gluten
- Health and safety warnings reminding consumers about responsible use
All of these details help you make safe and informed choices about what you’re consuming.
Tips for Using Cannabis Labels to Shop Smarter
Understanding labels is one thing, but using them to your advantage is another. Here are a few quick tips:
- Don’t choose a product based on THC percentage alone. Look at CBD content and terpenes too.
- Compare labels across products to find one that aligns with your goals, whether that’s relaxation, energy, or pain relief.
- Start small if you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product. Lower THC and smaller doses are easier to manage.
- Choose products with clear, transparent labeling and accessible lab test results.
- When in doubt, ask your budtender to walk you through the label—they’re there to help.
Cannabis Labels Are Your Best Tool
Cannabis product labels are more than just compliance requirements. They’re your roadmap to understanding what you’re buying and how it might affect you. By paying attention to THC and CBD percentages, terpene profiles, serving sizes, and testing information, you can make smarter, safer, and more satisfying choices.
At 42 Degrees, we believe informed consumers have the best experiences. That’s why we’re here to help you read and understand every part of a label. Whether you’re looking for a calming edible, an uplifting flower, or a balanced tincture, we’ll guide you to a product that matches your lifestyle and show you how to read the label with confidence.
