In a groundbreaking study published by the American Chemical Society, researchers have identified a new class of compounds that challenge the conventional belief that terpenes are solely responsible for the distinct smells of various marijuana strains.
The study suggests that their importance has been overestimated, terpenes are known to contribute to the aroma of cannabis.
Terpenes, which compose a small percentage of the total mass of cured cannabis flower, were previously thought to be the primary drivers of aroma diversity among strains. However, the research conducted by scientists from marijuana extraction and testing companies indicates that terpenes offer minimal information regarding the unique aromatic attributes of many cannabis varieties, even among strains with similar terpene contents.
The study introduces the concept of “flavorants,” a class of chemicals that includes esters, alcohols, and other compounds, as significant contributors to differences in aroma between cannabis strains. These flavors, categorized as volatiles, can create similar savor between marijuana varieties’ and dominant terpenes. In addition, a highly pungent compound called skatole was found to be a key aroma contributor in savory or chemical varieties.
TJ Martin, the vice president of research and development at Abstrax, stated that the study revealed correlations between minor compounds never before observed in cannabis, which produces highly desirable aromas.
The discovery of these compounds is expected to provide a more accurate method for classifying cannabis varieties based on their aroma attributes, enhancing cannabis authenticity and classification for consumers, researchers, brands, cultivators, labs, regulators, and others in the industry.
Terpenes have become a common way to differentiate cannabis strains, but this new research challenges the accuracy of this classification system. Using the newly discovered compound also offers breeders, growers, and processors more control over their products enabling them to engineer unique flavor alternatives, such as the iconic Tangie flavor and aroma. using the newly discovered compounds.
The study holds promising outcomes for medicinal use and has implications for breeders, growers, and packaging experts. It may influence product labeling, marketing, laboratory testing, quality indicators for producers and consumers in the legal cannabis industry.
This research is a significant step toward understanding the complexities of cannabis and its potential applications despite the federal restrictions on marijuana research. Legalization at the state and international levels has ignited curiosity and passion for unraveling the mysteries of this remarkable plant.
