Cannabis edibles have surged in popularity as a tasty, smoke-free alternative to traditional smoking. These are cannabis-infused foods or drinks that deliver the effects of marijuana without any inhaling. In Canada, legal edibles are limited to 10 mg of THC per package by law, so serving sizes are usually small and clearly labeled. Edibles are now widely available to adults, providing a fun and discreet way to enjoy cannabis.

Types of Cannabis Edibles

One of the fun aspects of edibles is the sheer variety of forms they come in. Here are some of the most popular types of cannabis edibles you might encounter:

• Gummies and Candies: Chewy flavoured gummies are among the most popular edibles. They usually come in bite-sized pieces with a set amount of THC (such as 5–10 mg) per gummy. They’re sweet, portable, and make it easy to control your dose by eating one piece at a time. (Hard candies and mints are also common THC-infused treats.)

• Baked Goods & Chocolate: Many classic edibles come in the form of baked treats (like brownies and cookies) or chocolate bars. These sweet treats are delicious but can be strong, so be mindful of the THC per serving and don’t overindulge.

Each kind of edible may kick in slightly differently. For instance, candies that dissolve in your mouth might take effect a bit faster than a cookie that needs to be digested. It’s a good idea to start with one type and see how it affects you before trying a large assortment all at once.

How Cannabis Edibles Affect You

Edibles can surprise first-timers because they don’t work the same way as smoking cannabis. When you eat cannabis, the THC is processed by your digestive system and liver before entering your bloodstream. Slower Onset: Unlike smoking, you won’t feel effects right away. It often takes 30 to 90 minutes (or even up to 2 hours for some people) to start feeling an edible’s effects. Longer-Lasting High: Once the effects kick in, they can last 4 to 8 hours (or even more), depending on your dose and metabolism. Many people also find an edible high feels more intense or “heavier” than a similar amount of THC smoked, due to the way THC is metabolized in the liver into a potent compound.

The combination of slow onset and strong, long-lasting effects means you have to approach edibles with patience and caution. Many people have eaten a brownie, felt nothing after 30–60 minutes and then eaten more… only to end up far higher than intended when it all kicks in at once. Don’t fall into that trap – always wait at least 2 hours before taking more. Remember, factors like whether you’ve eaten recently, your metabolism, and your tolerance will also influence how an edible affects you.

Edibles vs. Smoking: Pros and Cons

Smoking cannabis delivers effects within minutes and the high lasts a shorter time, whereas edibles take much longer to kick in but their effects last far longer. Edibles are easier on the lungs (no smoke inhalation) and very discreet since there’s no telltale odor. On the other hand, smoking allows more immediate control of your dose, while with edibles you have to be patient and careful. Neither method is “better” universally – it depends on whether you value speed and control (smoking) or a smoke-free, long-lasting experience (edibles).

4 Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Cannabis Edible Consumption

Because edibles are a unique beast, follow these tips to ensure you have a positive experience:

1. Start Low & Go Slow: The golden rule of edibles is to start with a low dose and be patient. If you’re new to edibles, consider beginning with around 5 mg of THC (or even 2.5 mg for a very low dose) and wait at least 2 hours to gauge the effects before taking more. Edibles take time to kick in, so don’t get impatient and stack doses.

2. Stay in a Comfortable Environment: Just as with smoking, it’s best to consume edibles in a safe, familiar place – especially if you’re not sure how high you’ll get. Plan to relax at home or another place where you can lounge comfortably. Maybe have a favourite movie or some music ready to enjoy. Avoid doing edibles in a setting where you might need to “act sober” or handle important tasks in the next few hours.

3. Keep Them Secure: Cannabis edibles often look and taste like regular snacks, which can be very tempting to others. Always store your edibles out of reach of children and pets, and preferably in clearly marked containers. This prevents any accidental munching by someone who doesn’t realize those gummies or brownies are infused with THC.

4. Never Mix with Driving: Just as you wouldn’t drink and drive, don’t drive after consuming edibles. The impairment can be significant and long-lasting. Plan to stay put until you’re completely sober – that might even mean waiting until the next day. If you’re out and about, arrange a sober ride home or use transit. Safety is paramount.

By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for an enjoyable edible experience. The key is respect for the potency of edibles: they may come in the form of a tasty treat, but they can pack a punch. Start small, be patient, and you can avoid the classic edible mistakes while savouring a fun, relaxed high.

Enjoying Cannabis Edibles: Final Thoughts

Cannabis edibles open up a world of possibilities for enjoying marijuana in delicious forms. They’re perfect for those who want long-lasting effects or who prefer not to inhale at all. As the Canadian market evolves, the quality and variety of edibles keep getting better – meaning consumers have more choice than ever in finding their favourite way to indulge.

At BulkBuddy, we offer a wide array of cannabis edibles to suit every preference – from potent THC gummies to decadent chocolates and beyond. By starting with small doses and being mindful of your experience, you can discover the joy of edibles while staying safe and responsible. Remember, the goal is to have fun and feel good. With the right approach, you can savour the flavours and mellow vibes that edibles provide, all while enjoying a safe experience. Bon appétit and happy elevating!