The rising popularity of delta 8 THC has filled the hemp market with myriad cartridge options claiming to offer quality and potency. However, with little regulation of these products, it is hard for consumers to distinguish high-quality delta 8 cartridges from poor or even dangerous imposters. By learning the key signs of an exceptional Delta 8 cart, you shop confidently and enjoy the experience these innovative products provide.
- Extensive lab testing
The number one factor of a legitimate Delta 8 cart is up-to-date, comprehensive lab testing. Any decent company will post certificates of analysis (COAs) for every product they sell, with results from independent testing labs. COAs should confirm the delta-8 potency matches the advertised strength, and show the oil is free from residual solvents, heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants. Testing for purity and potency verifies the safety and quality of a cart’s contents.
- Full disclosure of ingredients
Aside from delta 8 distillate, cartridges contain other ingredients that dilute and liquefy the thick cannabis oil, so it vaporizes efficiently. Quality carts use mostly cannabis-derived terpenes as thinners and natural flavorings. But, some companies cut corners with artificial flavors or cheap fillers like VG/PG or MCT oil. Always research the full list of ingredients before purchasing a Delta 8 cartridge. Transparency equals trust.
- Cannabis-derived terpenes
As mentioned, the best delta 8 carts use terpene extracts sourced from cannabis plants to provide pleasant flavors and aromas. Terpenes also influence the entourage effect with delta 8 thanks to their complementary therapeutic properties. Some brands merely use “botanical terpenes” which could come from non-cannabis plants. Seek out carts with cannabis-derived terpene profiles for maximum synergy.
- Quality hardware components
The cartridge hardware plays a big role in performance. Higher quality carts feature ceramic heating cores and quartz, glass, or stainless steel mouthpieces. These inert materials provide pure flavor and consistent heating. Lower-end carts may use exposed cotton wicks or plastic parts that leach into the oil when heated. Carefully check all hardware components that contact the Delta 8 oil.
- Extraction methods
High-end brands extract it directly from hemp using complex processes like fractional distillation, molecular isolation, or chromatography to filter out delta 9 THC and purify the delta 8. Lower-grade options may rely on the artificial conversion of CBD into delta 8, which leaves potentially toxic solvents behind. Seek out brands using the careful, controlled extraction methods for clean delta 8 distillate.
- Professional appearance
A company that cares about putting out a high-quality product will also present itself professionally with well-designed packaging and an easy-to-navigate website. Look for details like:
- Child-proof packaging
- Informative labeling with warnings
- Coordinated branding and marketing
- Responsive customer service
A polished image complements the product quality.
Signs of low-quality delta 8 carts
- No lab testing or unclear/incomplete COAs
- Artificial flavors or fillers instead of cannabis terpenes
- Cheap hardware materials like plastic or exposed wicks
- Imports hemp crudely from overseas
- Uses artificial conversion or unexplained extraction methods
- No company website or online information
- Pricing seems either highly inflated or suspiciously cheap
With so many new Delta 8 cart brands hitting the market, relying on these quality benchmarks helps consumers find the gems and avoid unhealthy, low-grade products.
