The lack of research due to prohibition has led to uncertainty about the onset time of cannabis edibles. Brands like Wana Quick have launched fast-acting products, but the norm is still a warning of a 2-hour delay on the package. This lag time is a problem that needs to be solved if the edible market is to reach its full potential.
A January 18 email from Leafly led with the subject line “How long until the edible kicks in?”*
The email didn’t provide an answer. Or at least, nothing more than the “start low and slow” advice the industry dispenses. Not that the cannabis industry should be blamed for the uncertainty.
By now, marketing fast “onset time” isn’t uncommon in edibles although it’s still not the norm. Instead, a warning in tiny print commonly appears on the package of most edibles. Take this example:
Caution: When eaten or swallowed, the intoxicating effects of this drug may be delayed by 2 or more hours
Two hours? That might as well be two years today. If the category is to reach its full potential – edibles are about 12% of the US market according to Headset – the lagtime problem will have to get solved. Solving the lag time issue could also solve the problem of overconsumption.
What about the flip side? Is there an opportunity for edibles deliberately formulated to kick in after a long lag time? Lazy Gummies? Slow Rider Chocolates? The use cases abound be it from a medicinal or enjoyment perspective. It could help with the Big Bird Problem.
