How to Evaluate a THC Deal
A low price per gram does not mean a good deal. Compare price per milligram of THC. Divide total price by total THC milligrams. Example: a $40 eighth with 20% THC has 560 mg THC. That is $0.07 per mg. A $30 eighth with 12% THC has 336 mg THC. That is $0.09 per mg. The $40 product costs less per mg.
Check the package date. THC degrades over time. Products older than 6 months lose potency. Ask for the harvest date. Dispensaries must label package dates in most states.
Look for a certificate of analysis (COA). A COA lists THC percentage, terpenes, pesticides, mold, and heavy metals. A deal without a COA is a risk.
Parameters to Compare
- Price per mg THC
- Total THC (THCA + THC after decarboxylation)
- Package date and harvest date
- Lab test results (COA)
- Delivery fees and minimum order
- State and local taxes
- Loyalty program terms
- Return policy
Pitfalls
- Expired product sold at a discount
- Potency inflation: lab results higher than actual
- Delivery minimums that force extra purchases
- First-time customer deals that require a large purchase
- No returns or exchanges on sale items
- Convenience fees for curbside pickup or delivery
Convenience and the Deal
Delivery and curbside pickup save time. They also reduce price comparison. A delivery fee of $5 on a $40 order adds 12.5%. Check the total cost after fees and taxes. Convenience can decide where you buy. It should not decide what you pay.