Reading Product Labels

Cannabis product labels contain important information that helps adults understand what’s inside a product before making a purchase. From THC and CBD percentages to serving sizes, ingredients, and safety warnings, knowing how to read a label makes comparing products much easier.

Whether you’re browsing flower, edibles, vapes, or concentrates, here’s a simple guide to understanding the information you’ll commonly find on cannabis packaging.

1. Understanding THC and CBD Percentages

Two of the most common numbers you’ll see on cannabis labels are THC and CBD percentages.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): THC is the primary intoxicating cannabinoid in cannabis. Its percentage indicates how much THC is present relative to the product’s total weight.

CBD (Cannabidiol): CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis. Its percentage tells you the concentration of CBD in the product.

Remember: A higher THC percentage doesn’t automatically mean a better product or a better experience. Consider the full cannabinoid profile and your individual preferences.

2. What Does Total Cannabinoids Mean?

Some labels include a figure called Total Cannabinoids.

This represents the combined amount of measured cannabinoids in a product, which may include THC, CBD, and other naturally occurring cannabinoids.

Understanding this number can help you compare product compositions beyond THC alone.

3. Understanding Serving Sizes

Serving sizes are particularly important when purchasing cannabis-infused edibles and beverages.

Unlike flower products, edibles often contain clearly defined servings and total cannabinoid amounts.

For example:

THC per serving: 5 mg
Number of servings: 10
Total THC per package: 50 mg

This means the entire package contains 50 mg of THC, divided into ten servings of 5 mg each.

Always check the serving information carefully. Effects from edibles can take longer to appear and may last longer than expected.

4. Reading Labels on Different Cannabis Products

Product labels can look different depending on the type of cannabis product you’re purchasing.

Flower:

THC and CBD percentages
Strain or cultivar name
Net weight
Harvest or packaging date
Batch number
Laboratory testing information

Edibles:

Total THC and CBD per package
THC and CBD per serving
Number of servings
Ingredients and allergens
Expiration or best-before date
Storage instructions

Vape Products:

THC and CBD concentration
Extract or oil type
Net contents
Ingredients
Manufacturer information
Batch and testing details

Concentrates:

Total cannabinoid content
THC and CBD percentages
Product weight
Extraction or product type
Batch number
Laboratory testing information

5. What Are Batch Numbers and Lab Testing?

Every regulated cannabis product should have identifying information that helps trace its production and testing history.

Batch Number: A unique code that identifies a specific production batch. It can help connect a product to its manufacturing and testing records.

Lab Testing: Independent laboratory testing may provide information about cannabinoid potency, contaminants, pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial safety.

Certificate of Analysis (COA): A laboratory report containing detailed testing results for a particular product or batch.

Checking available testing information helps you understand what has been measured and reported about the product.

6. Ingredients, Allergens & Warnings

Don’t overlook the smaller details on cannabis packaging.

For infused products, especially edibles, ingredient lists can reveal important information about what you’re consuming.

Look for:

Full ingredient lists
Common allergens such as milk, soy, nuts, or gluten
Artificial colors and flavorings
Storage and handling instructions
Required health and safety warnings
Age restrictions and legal compliance information

Always read the entire label, particularly if you have food allergies or sensitivities.

7. Important Safety Information

Cannabis packaging includes warnings designed to help consumers make informed decisions and use products responsibly.

Keep these reminders in mind:

Only purchase cannabis if you meet the legal age requirements in your location.
Keep all cannabis products away from children and pets.
Store products securely in their original packaging.
Never drive or operate machinery while impaired.
Avoid combining cannabis with alcohol or other intoxicating substances.
Follow product-specific instructions and serving information.
Consult a healthcare professional if you have questions about cannabis and medication interactions.

Make Every Label Easier to Understand

Reading cannabis labels doesn’t have to be confusing. Once you understand THC and CBD percentages, serving sizes, ingredients, and testing information, you’ll be better equipped to compare products and make informed decisions.

If something on a label isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask a knowledgeable team member for help.

Read the label. Understand the details. Make informed choices.