Since August of 2023 when cannabis was legalized in Minnesota, the market for related products has experienced significant growth, an unmatched boon within the realm of consumer-based food and beverage. It seems everywhere from liquor stores to grocers, convenience stores to bars and restaurants have some type of cannabis-related product to offer. Since the market is still relatively new and expanding at lightning speed, it can be difficult for retailers to gauge where (or if?) to enter, and how to play in such a space. Utilizing a distributor to navigate THC and CBD products can help. To that, here’s a frequently asked questions-based compilation that can assist you further as you explore the surefire revenue-generator that is cannabis products for consumers.
1. What are Cannabinoids? CBN, CBD, CBG, & THC
There are a lot of acronyms in the cannabis industry. Just as in any other consumable product, there are many variables that affect and influence the product. Here’s a quick primer on the integrity within:
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the sativa plant—a strain of cannabis. They interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates functions like mood, pain receptors, appetite, and sleep regulation.
Types of Cannabinoids:
Phytocannabinoids (cannabis derivative)
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): this cannabinoid is likely the most recognizable, it’s the primary psychoactive compound that delivers the “head high" associated with cannabis
- CBD (Cannabidiol): non-psychoactive compound touting various therapeutic benefits, including potential anxiety and pain reduction
- CBG (Cannabigerol): known casually as "mother cannabinoid" in respect to the cannabinoid derivatives it produces, supports anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties
- CBN (Cannabinol): results from the aging of THC; known for potential sedative-like effects
- CBC (Cannabichromene): another non-psychoactive compound, potentially acts as an anti-inflammatory and pain-reliever alike
Endocannabinoids (produced at the human level)
- Anandamide ( aka "Bliss Molecule"): can play a role in mood regulation, pain relief, and appetite
- 2-AG (2-Arachidonoylglycerol): involved in immune system reactivity and inflammation control
2. What Are Terpenes and Why Do They Matter?
As with any consumable product, taste and scent matter greatly. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis as well as other plants and botanicals, creating distinct flavors, aromas, and potential effects. In cannabis, terpenes work alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD to enhance or alter their effects—a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.”
Terpenes give cannabis its signature scents and tastes, ranging from citrusy and fruity to earthy and piney. They also contribute to cannabis' effects on mood and body.
- Limonene—Citrus (lemon, orange) supports an uplifting, mood-enhancement
- Myrcene—Earthy, musky (mango, cloves) creates a sedative effect; think “maple syrup”
- Pinene—Pine, (fresh forest) may improve cognition, focus, and alertness
- Linalool—Floral, (lavender) may promote relaxation and stress relief
- Caryophyllene—Spicy, peppery
3: What About Consumer Tolerance?
Of course, regular cannabis users may develop a THC tolerance, not unlike alcohol, nicotine, or caffeine. Tolerance simply means there’s a need for higher doses in order to achieve the same desired effects achieved with historically lower doses. This occurs when THC interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), specifically CB1 receptors in the brain. With frequent use, these receptors become less responsive, leading to diminished effects from THC.
How can retailers support safe consumption? By incorporating appropriate context into display, marketing, and point-of-sale messaging, including ideas such as:
- Tolerance Break—taking a break (even 48 hours to a few weeks can be sufficient) allows CB1 receptors to recover
- Microdosing—intentionally using smaller amounts of THC can help maintain effectiveness while preventing rapid tolerance buildup
- Product or Strain Variance—different terpene and cannabinoid profiles may produce desired effects, even at lower THC levels
- Incorporating CBD—CBD can balance out THC effects and may help regulate receptor sensitivity
- Consumption Methods—beverages, edibles, tinctures, and snack items deliver THC differently, potentially reducing tolerance buildup
4: What Do THC & CBD Beverages Taste Like?
Ah, the most important question yet. Taste profiles of THC and CBD beverages vary greatly depending on ingredients, infusion methods, and formulation. While some drinks have a natural cannabis flavor, others mask it with fruit, botanicals, or carbonation. The good news with the market is that new products are being added seemingly weekly to shelves. Truly there is something that suits everyone’s palate.
Common Flavor Profiles
- Earthy & Herbal: Some THC & CBD drinks retain the natural, grassy, or piney notes of cannabis. This is more common in minimally processed products like teas and cold brews.
- Citrusy & Fruity: Many beverages, especially seltzers and lemonades, incorporate citrus flavors (lemon, lime, orange) that complement or mask cannabis’ natural taste.
- Sweet & Refreshing: Infused sodas, iced teas, and fruit punches often have a sweeter, more familiar taste, making them approachable for first-time users.
- Botanical & Floral: Drinks infused with lavender, hibiscus, or ginger balance the cannabis notes with herbal complexity.
- Malty & Hoppy: THC & CBD beers and tonics often highlight hops and malt flavors, creating a profile similar to craft beer.
- Neutral & Crisp: Some brands use advanced nano-emulsification to make THC/CBD water-soluble, resulting in a clean, almost flavorless beverage with no lingering cannabis aftertaste.
Consumers are becoming more educated and selective, seeking out cannabis products not just by THC and CBD content, but by their flavor and aromatic profiles to tailor their experience. Retailers should conduct due diligence to ensure product education is inclusive of taste-forward insight. For example, wellness-focused consumers might look for calming terpenes (like linalool) for stress relief or energizing terpenes (like limonene) for daytime use. Those who skew in more of a flavor-driven experience choose strains based on aroma and taste, much like wine or craft beer enthusiasts.
5: Do Retailers Need a License to Sell THC?
The cannabis industry is pretty heavily regulated, and since the market itself is less than two years old in Minnesota, and Wisconsin is still in the process of legalizing manufacturing, selling, and use of many cannabis-based products, it seems like there are constant updates affecting retailers. At time of publication, Governor Evers is lobbying to reinstate a bill to legalize cannabis in Wisconsin after it failed to advance through legislative channels in 2023. For higher-potency cannabis sales, Minnesota is currently developing a licensing infrastructure as part of its legal adult-use cannabis program, expected to launch in 2025; dispensaries will require a separate license from the state’s Office of Cannabis Management. So much changes, so often, that partnering with a distributor can help retailers stay within regulation and apprised of all changes to the products.
Regarding Minnesota, retailers need a license to sell THC products. The state has specific regulations for selling hemp-derived THC products, including edibles and beverages containing up to 5mg of THC per serving and 50mg per package. Again, the regulations are very tight.
- Food & Beverage License: businesses selling THC-infused edibles or beverages must obtain the appropriate food license from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) or local health authorities.
- Retail Registration: as of 2023, Minnesota law requires retailers selling hemp-derived THC products to register with the state.
- Age Restrictions: retailers must enforce a 21+ age requirement for THC product sales.
- Product Compliance: All THC products must meet state regulations for labeling, testing, and potency limits.
6. What’s the Difference Between THC and CBD from Hemp vs Marijuana?
Legal and chemical differences between hemp-derived THC and marijuana-derived THC. What retailers need to know about federal legality and product labeling. Consumer perceptions of hemp THC vs marijuana THC.
While hemp and marijuana come from the cannabis sativa plant, they differ in THC properties including content, legal status, and effects. Hemp-derived THC & CBD contains 0.3% THC or less (per U.S. federal law) and its higher CBD content makes it popular for health and wellness products. Hemp derivatives were legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill, again, as long as THC levels remain below 0.3%.
Marijuana-derived THC & CBD can contain higher levels of THC (5%-30%+), producing psychoactive effects (head high) and also might include CBD, but usually in lower amounts compared to hemp-derived products. The key difference here is that marijuana-derived products are only legal in states where medical or recreational marijuana is permitted—like Minnesota.
Effects & Usage
- THC from Hemp:
- Only allowed in small amounts (like hemp-derived Delta-9, Delta-8, and Delta-10 THC)
- Can produce mild psychoactive effects but is often less potent than marijuana THC
- THC from Marijuana:
- Produces stronger psychoactive effects
- Used both medically and recreationally for pain relief, relaxation, and more
- CBD from Hemp & Marijuana:
- Hemp-derived CBD is non-intoxicating and widely used in oils, edibles, and wellness products.
- Marijuana-derived CBD may contain more THC, which could enhance certain effects through the entourage effect
7. Edibles vs. Beverages—is One Stronger Than the Other?
Both THC edibles and THC beverages can undoubtedly deliver potent effects, but they differ in onset time, absorption, and overall user experience. Whether one feels "stronger" depends on how the body processes THC in each form. Edibles such as popular gummies, candy, chocolates, packaged baked goods, and salty snacks are processed through the digestive system and metabolized by the liver. In turn, the liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting compound. Can you feel anything yet? Effects take longer to kick in (30-90 minutes) but can last 4-8 hours. Edibles typically produce a stronger, full-body high compared to beverages.
Beverages like THC-infused drinks, seltzers, teas, and coffee often use nano-emulsification, making THC water-soluble and faster-absorbing. This essentially bypasses some of the liver metabolism and enters the bloodstream quicker. Effects set in quicker (10-30 minutes) but usually wear off within 2-4 hours. Beverages produce a lighter, more controllable high compared to food-based edibles.
In summary, edibles feel stronger overall due to 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more psychoactive than regular THC, while beverages feel milder and shorter-lasting, but their faster onset makes them more predictable and easier to dose gradually. Consumers may choose edibles if seeking a deep, long-lasting high and don’t mind waiting for effects to kick in and choose beverages if preferences are for a quicker, more manageable high with less commitment to long-lasting or unpredictable effects.
Partnering with Bernick’s
The market for THC and CBD products is experiencing explosive growth, driven by shifting legal landscapes, increasing consumer demand for wellness alternatives, and ongoing research into cannabis-derived benefits. Partnering with Bernick’s for THC distribution can help retailers streamline operations, ensure product quality, and stay competitive in the growing cannabis market. From legal expertise, staying up to date on state and local cannabis laws, helping retailers remain compliant, established distributors work with reputable THC brands, ensuring safe and high-quality products find the consumers looking for the best.
