Nano vs. Non-Nano/Traditional Cannabis Products: What’s the Difference?

At Smokeless, we strive to provide you with the best products and the most accurate information to enhance your cannabis experience. When shopping for THC edibles, you may have noticed the term “Nano-emulsified" or the product may refer to this feature as "Water-soluble". But what does it mean, and how does it differ from non-nano-emulsified, traditional THC products? Understanding these differences can help you choose the right product for your needs, whether you're a novice or a cannabis connoisseur. 

(Note: For the purpose of this article, we will refer to non-nano THC as traditional THC. In the context of Minnesota, we use hemp-derived THC in compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill. Traditional marijuana and hemp are legally distinct variations of the cannabis plant, differing primarily in their THC concentration. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp must contain less than 0.3% of delta-9 THC by dry weight. In Minnesota, THC used in edibles is extracted from hemp-derived sources. Molecularly speaking, THC is consistent across both hemp and marijuana.)

Comparing Nano and Non-Nano/Traditional THC

Speed vs. Duration:

• Nano: Water-soluble. Quick effects, shorter duration.
• Traditional/Non-Nano: Fat-soluble (Traditional). Slower onset, longer duration.

Potency and Dosing:

• Nano: Higher bioavailability means potentially more potent effects with lower doses.
• Traditional/Non-Nano: Requires careful dosing to avoid overconsumption, especially for beginners.

What is Nano-Emulsified THC?

Nano-emulsification is a process that breaks down THC particles into tiny, nano-sized particles using high-speed homogenization technology. This increases the surface area for absorption, allowing for faster and more efficient uptake by the body.

Key Benefits of Nano-Emulsified THC:

• Rapid Onset: Nano-emulsified THC bypasses the first-pass metabolism in the liver, meaning you’ll feel the effects faster—for some people, within 10-20 minutes.
• Increased Bioavailability: More THC is absorbed into the bloodstream, potentially offering stronger effects with lower doses.

What is Traditional/Non-Nano-Emulsified THC?

Non-nano-emulsified THC consists of larger THC particles that take longer for the body to absorb. These products pass through the digestive system, where they are broken down and metabolized before entering the bloodstream. Because non-nano THC is fat-soluble, it can enhance the experience and absorption to take these products with food.

Key Benefits of Traditional/Non-Nano-Emulsified THC:

• Longer Lasting: Because they are absorbed more slowly, non-nano THC products can provide a longer-lasting effect, often extending several hours.
• Traditional Experience: Many users prefer the more gradual onset and sustained experience provided by non-nano products.

Choosing the Right Product for You

Here are a few questions to guide your decision:

• How quickly do you want to feel the effects? If you’re looking for immediate relief or a quicker high, nano-emulsified products may be the way to go.
• How long do you want the effects to last? If you prefer a more extended experience, non-nano products might be better suited for you.
• What is your tolerance level? No matter what, if you're new to cannabis, we recommend to always start low and slow, to see how your body responds and do so in a safe and familiar environment. 

Popular Nano and Traditional/Non-Nano Edibles

At Smokeless, we offer a variety of both nano and traditional/non-nano THC edibles to suit all preferences. Here are some of our popular products:

Nano Edibles: 

• Botany Farms 10mg Nano THC Shot
• Taro 5mg Nano Gummies (Try Before You Buy At All Smokeless Locations!)

Non-Nano Edibles:

• Retro Bakery Milk Chocolate THC Cookies

• Botany Farms 5mg THC Gummies

Understanding the differences between nano-emulsified and non-nano-emulsified THC can enhance your overall cannabis experience. Every body is different, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. After learning and understanding the differences between nano and non-nano THC products, the ultimate way to know which is right for you is to try both and see how your body responds. Only you know what feels best for you.

Let Us Help!

At Smokeless, we're here to support you in finding the perfect match for your needs and preferences. Visit our super friendly staff in stores or browse our website to explore our full selection of high-quality edibles and find the perfect fit for your preferences. We even have several select products available in our stores to taste (THC-free) before you buy!