In the world of cannabis concentrates, live sugar dabs have gained significant popularity for their potent effects and flavorful profiles. This blog will take you through the fascinating journey of how live sugar dabs are made, from the initial harvest to the final product. By the end, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and science behind these sought-after concentrates.
What Are Live Sugar Dabs?
Live sugar dabs are a type of cannabis concentrate known for their unique texture and rich terpene profile. They get their name from their appearance, which resembles wet sugar crystals, and the "live" aspect refers to the fresh, flash-frozen cannabis used in their production. This process helps preserve the plant’s aromatic compounds, resulting in a more flavorful and potent concentrate.
The Process of Making Live Sugar Dabs
Harvesting Fresh Cannabis: The journey begins with the harvest of fresh cannabis plants. Unlike traditional methods where the plant is dried and cured, live sugar dabs are made using fresh, undried cannabis. This is because the goal is to retain as much of the plant’s natural terpene profile as possible.
Flash Freezing: Immediately after harvest, the fresh cannabis is flash-frozen. This step is crucial as it locks in the plant’s natural flavors and aromas, which can degrade if the plant is dried and cured. The freezing process typically occurs within hours of harvesting to ensure maximum terpene retention.
Extraction: The frozen cannabis is then subjected to a hydrocarbon extraction process, commonly using butane or propane. During this step, the cannabinoids and terpenes are separated from the plant material. The cold temperatures help preserve the delicate terpenes, resulting in a more flavorful extract.
Purging: After extraction, the solvent needs to be purged from the extract. This is done using a vacuum oven, which removes any residual solvents, leaving behind a pure and potent concentrate. The temperature and duration of the purging process are carefully controlled to ensure that the terpenes are not degraded.
Crystallization: The extract is then placed in jars to undergo the crystallization process. Over time, the THCA in the extract begins to form crystalline structures, resulting in the characteristic sugar-like appearance. The process can take several days to weeks, depending on the desired consistency and texture.
Packaging: Once the live sugar has reached the desired consistency, it is ready for packaging. Each batch is carefully inspected for quality, ensuring that only the best product reaches consumers. The final product is then packaged in airtight containers to preserve its flavor and potency.
Conclusion
Making live sugar dabs is a meticulous process that combines the art of cannabis cultivation with the science of extraction. The result is a potent and flavorful concentrate that captures the essence of the fresh cannabis plant. Whether you're a seasoned dabber or new to concentrates, live sugar dabs offer a unique and enjoyable experience that highlights the best that cannabis has to offer.