Impossible Flavours and Dangerous Terpenes

New and exotic flavours have emerged in the world of vape flavours and concentrates, offering a wild range of delicious experiences for cannabis enthusiasts. Botanical and cannabis-derived terpenes are a favoured option for formulating new and outstanding flavours, as most plants naturally produce terpenes that are safe for human consumption! From the sweet notes of fruits to the earthy undertones of herbs, flavour and scent scientists can blend different terpenes to create nature-identical profiles. However, even the most expert formulators understand that not all flavours can be recreated! Certain flavour profiles are impossible due to their complexity, and some terpenes are actually dangerous when inhaled! 

Today we're exploring a different side of terpenes, compounds like spicy cinnamaldehyde, that represent the potential dangers of our favourite volatile molecules and complications around creating some of the world's favoured flavours for combustible cannabis products. 

Not all terpenes are safe for consumption!

As we know, terpenes are the scent compounds that contribute to the aromas and flavours of various plants. While some flavours might seem familiar and easy to recreate, there are limitations on what we can put in combustibles like vape pens and cannabis concentrates due to the volatile nature of terpenes and the potential health risks. Not all terpenes are safe for consumption!

Cinnamaldehyde: Spicy and Dangerous

The world loves cinnamon! From baking to seasonal drinks to aromatic candles, cinnamon is a global favourite, used to flavour and scent all kinds of products worldwide. Cinnamon is high in phenols like Eugenol, but its main bioactive component is the flavonoid Cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde is the compound responsible for cinnamon's distinct aroma and deliciously spicy taste. Its warming and energizing profile is peppery, earthy, spicy and woodsy. It is considered stimulating and occasionally used in aromatherapy as a mild aphrodisiac. 

Although cinnamon is an enticing option for creating unique vape flavours, cinnamaldehyde can be dangerous. Undiluted cinnamon essential oil is highly skin-sensitizing and can cause chemical burns if used topically. When vaporized or inhaled, cinnamaldehyde can irritate and inflame the respiratory tract, causing severe discomfort. Long-term use has been associated with lung damage and respiratory distress. Due to these concerns, cinnamaldehyde is never used in vape flavours, as manufacturers prioritize the safety and well-being of their consumers.

Hot Pepper and Capsaicin

The idea of a deliciously spicy vape might sound intriguing. I can definitely imagine a market for hot ramen flavour or piquant sriracha. Unfortunately, recreating the intense heat of capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spiciness in peppers, presents considerable challenges. Most significant are the health concerns surrounding the effect of essentially inhaling pepper spray. 

While capsaicin's ability to deliver an intense sensation is undeniable, the risks cannot be overlooked. When inhaled through vaping, capsaicin can cause a noticeable irritation to the respiratory system, leading to discomfort and even potential damage over prolonged exposure. But capsaicin's potency isn't limited to inhalation; skin contact with this compound can result in an immediate burning sensation, underscoring its potential for danger to delicate lung tissue. 

The sensitivity of our respiratory tracts requires thoughtful evaluation of the impact of capsaicin vapours. So, although the allure of a spicy vape might be tempting, the associated health risks have led most terpene manufacturers to be cautious about introducing capsaicin-based flavours. Safety first!

The Missing Flavors 

While the list of available terpene-based flavour blends is expansive, certain flavours like chocolate and meat are notably absent from many reputable catalogues. This is not due to a lack of interest or market value but the inherent complexities and limitations of terpenes themselves. 

The Complexities of Chocolate

Chocolate is a beloved flavour in various forms, but recreating its rich, nuanced taste for cannabis concentrates and vaping products is extremely difficult. The essence of chocolate is a challenge to capture due to the volatile nature of terpenes. Chocolate contains a myriad of compounds that contribute to its complex flavour, making it difficult to replicate using even the most high-quality terpenes. 

Savoury Meats

Creating a meat-flavoured vape might seem like a curious experiment, but it's a challenge for even the most skilled scientists. The flavours and aromas associated with cooked meats arise from a complex interaction of proteins, fats, and other compounds. These components are far removed from the world of botanical terpenes, making it nearly impossible to authentically recreate meat flavours for vape pens and cannabis products.

Terpenes and Safety

The safety measures and testing protocols undertaken by terpene manufacturers are extensive and comprehensive. Terpene formulation is not only about crafting captivating flavours but also about ensuring the safety of the consumers who enjoy them. Reputable sources for high-quality cannabis terpenes, like CannTerp, take meticulous steps to guarantee that their products meet stringent safety standards before they reach the hands of cannabis enthusiasts. These measures are crucial when navigating the complexities of terpene chemistry. 

Quality Sourcing and Extraction

Terpenes start out as raw materials sourced from trusted suppliers that adhere to strict quality control standards and meet regulatory requirements. This ensures all materials are contaminant-free. Once sourced, advanced extraction techniques guarantee the purity of terpenes. For example, steam distillation or CO2 extraction preserves the desired terpene profiles while eliminating undesirable compounds. 

Testing Protocols and Compliance

Terpenes are subjected to many tests to assess both safety and quality. Purity testing analyzes for the presence of heavy metals, solvents, pesticides, and other contaminants that could pose health risks when inhaled. Microbial Testing detects the presence of harmful bacteria, yeast, and mould, to ensure they are safe for inhalation. Stability Testing determines how terpene blends react to various conditions over time, so they remain safe and consistent throughout their shelf life. 

Flavour chemists, toxicologists, and other experts will also evaluate the safety of products. This collaborative approach helps identify potential risks and compliance to regulations and guidelines set by health authorities. These steps ensure that terpenes are safe for inhalation and offer consumers a range of enjoyable flavours without compromising their health. 

Deliciously Complex 

Navigating the world of terpenes is complex and intricate, filled with possibilities and limitations. While certain flavours might be tempting to develop, considerations for safety and the intricacies of flavour chemistry are of utmost importance. Impossible and dangerous terpenes remind us that not all flavours are suitable for inhalation. As the vaping industry evolves, cannabis enthusiasts can continue to enjoy a wide range of tastes while appreciating the careful considerations that go into crafting each unique terpene experience. Paid for by Cannterp.ca