Cannabis quality is about more than just THC percentage—true excellence lies in the full spectrum of compounds that define the plant. In this episode of The Scoop, Alec Dixon, co-founder of SC Labs, dives into The Clean Cannabis Manifesto—a call to expand how the industry measures quality, with a particular focus on terpenes, preservation, and consumer education.
A Holistic View of Cannabis Quality
For years, cannabis consumers and even industry professionals have measured quality with THC as the primary benchmark. However, while THC potency plays a role, this narrow focus does not fully capture the intricate complexity of terpenes and other volatile aromatics in defining a strain’s character and effects. Dixon emphasizes that while THC matters, terpene content and the full profile of cannabinoids play an equally important role in determining the aroma, flavor, and overall experience of cannabis.
This episode highlights why terpene-rich cannabis consistently wins awards and captivates consumers—because true quality comes from a combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, and the plant’s full essence.
Our intuitive understanding of cannabis before lab testing relied on terms like Indica and Sativa, but in reality, the way a plant makes you feel has much more to do with the presence of volatile aromatics and terpene content, working together with cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Q&A with Alec Dixon
Question:Why is terpene content so important in defining cannabis quality?
Alec Dixon: Terpenes are the unsung heroes of cannabis quality. They work alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD to shape the entire sensory and experiential profile of a strain. They don’t just influence aroma and flavor—they play a key role in modulating the effects of cannabis.
Our years of testing cannabis for competitions like the Emerald Cup have shown a clear pattern: high terpene content is a strong indicator of quality. When strains have both rich terpene and cannabinoid profiles, they consistently stand out.
In contrast, focusing only on THC percentages doesn’t tell the whole story. Some of the stickiest, most aromatic, resinous strains with deeply memorable effects don’t necessarily have the highest THC, but they always have high terpene content. When you squeeze a fresh, terpene-rich bud and it fills the room with its aroma—that’s the real mark of a top-tier cannabis product.
Question:How does the supply chain impact terpene preservation?
AD: The moment cannabis is harvested, its chemical profile begins to evolve. Without a properly managed cold supply chain, cannabis can lose a significant portion of its terpene content by the time it reaches consumers.
In traditional retail environments, dried flower often sits on dispensary shelves for 30 to 45 days without refrigeration, leading to major terpene degradation. The best cultivators are adapting, using cold storage methods, optimized curing, and proper packaging to maintain the full integrity of their products.
This isn’t about replacing THC as a measure of quality—rather, it’s about enhancing consumer understanding that full-spectrum preservation is key.
Question:What role do farmers and retailers play in setting new industry standards?
AD: Farmers and retailers that prioritize terpene preservation and full-spectrum excellence are shaping the future of cannabis. Groups like Farmer & the Felon, Soma Rosa Farms, Cannabiotix, Fig Farms, and Wood Wide Farms are leading by example, cultivating and handling cannabis in ways that retain its most valuable compounds.
On the retail side, dispensaries like Farma (Portland), Mercy Wellness, and Solful (Sebastopol) are pioneering terpene-forward approaches. These retailers focus on showcasing a variety of terpene and cannabinoid profiles, rather than relying solely on THC numbers. Their efforts help shift consumer perception and expectations toward a more complete view of quality.
Question:What advice do you have for consumers looking for the best cannabis experience?
AD: Consumers should move beyond just looking at THC percentages and start paying attention to full-spectrum profiles. When shopping for cannabis:
- Look for freshness
Stickier, more aromatic buds are often better preserved. - Ask about terpene and cannabinoid profiles
Many top-tier retailers now provide lab results highlighting more than just THC. - Smell before you buy
If your dispensary allows, trust your nose! A rich aroma is a strong indicator of high-quality flower. - Support brands that focus on terpene preservation
Companies that prioritize cold storage, proper curing, and transparent lab testing are helping push the industry forward.
At the end of the day, cannabis quality isn’t about picking one compound over another—it’s about understanding how all of these elements work together to create the best possible experience.
Conclusion:
The cannabis industry is evolving, and The Clean Cannabis Manifesto is a call to action for both producers and consumers to look beyond a single-number THC metric and embrace a more complete view of cannabis quality. By focusing on the entire profile of cannabinoids, terpenes, and preservation techniques, the industry can push forward a better standard for excellence.
As Dixon states:
“The best cannabis isn’t just high in THC. It’s about preserving the soul of the plant—the full terpene profile and all the compounds that make cannabis truly exceptional.”
About SC Labs:
SC Labs is at the forefront of cannabis and hemp testing, dedicated to advancing product safety and quality through cutting-edge analysis and transparent practices. With expertise in microbial, chemical, and potency testing, SC Labs empowers producers to build confidence in their products and their processes.