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Why tinted glass and ceramic bottles are superior to aluminum cans for preserving THC potency in cannabis drinks
According to Fortune Business Insights, the global cannabis beverages market size was USD 2.04 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 3.09 billion in 2024 to USD 117.05 billion by 2032. North America dominated the cannabis beverages market with a market share of 21.14% in 2023.
As the market for THC-infused beverages continues to grow, so does the need for effective packaging that preserves the potency and quality of these innovative drinks. The right choice of packaging is crucial for both producers and consumers alike. Let's explore why tinted or dark glass bottles, as well as ceramic bottles, are superior to transparent glass bottles or aluminum cans for storing THC drinks and beverages.
The impact of light and heat on THC potency
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and its potency can be significantly affected by environmental factors, especially heat and light exposure. Studies have shown that both visible light and ultraviolet (UV) rays can degrade THC, causing it to lose potency over time.
In a transparent glass bottle, THC is exposed to light and added heat every time the product is displayed or handled. Even in a retail environment where bottles might be showcased under bright lights, the risk of degradation increases. This can lead to a less effective product for consumers who expect a consistent and potent experience. Tinted or dark glass bottles act as a barrier against these harmful light rays, effectively shielding the THC from degradation and ensuring that consumers receive a product that meets their expectations.
The drawbacks of aluminium cans for cannabis drinks
While aluminum cans may be a cheaper and more convenient packaging option for many beverage manufacturers, they come with their own set of problems when it comes to storing THC drinks. One of the major concerns is the presence of liners inside aluminum cans, which are designed to prevent the drink from coming into direct contact with the metal. However, these liners can react with the cannabinoids in cannabis beverages, potentially leading to potency loss.
A loss in potency can significantly impact the consumer's experience, leading to dissatisfaction and a loss of trust in the product.
A recent article from Yahoo Finance highlights the pitfalls of using aluminum cans for THC drinks, stating that they can "suck the THC buzz out" of the beverages, ultimately affecting the consumer experience. As the cannabis market continues to expand, brands that prioritize product integrity will be the ones that succeed. This means choosing packaging that effectively preserves potency and flavor.
Cans have a much lower resistance to heat than glass or ceramic. Since temperature is the main factor that accelerates cannabinoid degradation – by accelerating the oxidation of cannabinoids or decarboxylation of acidic cannabinoids – cans offer the least protection for THC beverages
Quality packaging for THC beverages pays off
In addition to protecting THC from light degradation, tinted glass bottles offer other benefits. Glass is a non-porous material that does not interact with the contents of the bottle, ensuring that the flavor and aroma of the beverage remain intact. In addition to this, the sky’s the limit in terms of bottle design, embossing, debossing, glass color, labels, closures, and size/capacity.
Though aluminum cans and transparent glass bottles are cheaper to produce, they can ultimately compromise the quality of THC beverages. As the global market for THC-infused beverages is projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2025, brands that invest in premium packaging will be better positioned to capture and retain consumer loyalty.
The rising importance of tinted glass for cannabis drinks
As consumers become more educated about THC products and their storage needs, the demand for high-quality packaging is expected to rise. The use of tinted glass bottles for THC drinks is anticipated to grow in the coming years, as more producers realize the benefits of this type of packaging. Tinted glass not only protects THC from degradation but also conveys a premium aesthetic that resonates with consumers seeking high-end cannabis experiences.
At Rockwood Glass, we are committed to helping brands in the THC beverage market make informed decisions about their packaging. Our high-quality, tinted glass bottles are designed to preserve the integrity and potency of your product, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable experience for consumers.
As the THC beverage market evolves, producers must prioritize packaging that protects the integrity of their products. By investing in premium packaging, companies can ensure that their THC beverages meet the highest standards of quality, leading to satisfied customers and a stronger brand reputation.
Where does this leave ceramic bottles for THC beverages?
Ceramic containers offer many of the same benefits as glass when it comes to storing THC and cannabis-infused drinks. They are non-porous and chemically inert, ensuring that they do not react with or alter the flavor, aroma, or potency of the beverage inside. An added advantage of ceramic containers is their opacity, which shields the contents from light exposure—a crucial factor for preserving THC potency over time. As a result, ceramics present an excellent alternative for premium THC products, especially for brands seeking high-quality packaging solutions with endless design possibilities. While ceramics may be costlier and more fragile than other materials, their sustainability and protective qualities make them an appealing option for higher-end cannabis beverages.
Rockwood Glass and Rockwood Ceramics are ready to partner with THC beverage companies to provide premium packaging solutions that protect your product and elevate your brand. Choosing the right packaging now will position your brand for long-term success in the steadily growing market of THC beverages.
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