TAC, which stands for Total Active Cannabinoids, is the unit of measurement used to calculate the amount of cannabinoids in a cannabis product. There are 80-100 different cannabinoids in most cannabis plants, which means there’s a lot more in each strain than just CBD and THC.

Cannabis consumers can use TAC to determine the effects of different cannabis products on the market before they try them. Here, we explain TAC, how it’s different from other measurements, and why it matters to consumers and the cannabis industry. 

What is TAC in Weed?

TAC measures the “total active cannabinoids” found in a cannabis product, which includes both significant cannabinoids like THC and CBD and minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, CBN, THCV, and more. However, this measurement does not contain terpenes found in cannabis products, which can also alter the effects. 

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) are the two main methods of measuring TAC in cannabis products. These processes separate the cannabinoids in a prepared sample to indicate the numbers found in a product. 

While knowing the amount of THC and CBD in a product is essential for users, getting a proper understanding of all the cannabinoids found in a cannabis product that can also alter the effects by using TAC gives a more well-rounded view of a product. 

Components of TAC

TAC provides a measurement that includes all the cannabinoids found in a cannabis product that has an active contribution to its effects. Here is a list of cannabinoids in TAC: 

• THC
• Delta-9
• Delta-8
• CBD
• CBG
• CBC
• CBN
• THCV
• CBDV
• CBGV
• HHC
• Delta-10

TAC accounts for THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) by measuring the amount of delta-9-THC in a product but excludes the THCA found in a product because this converts to regular THC when burnt. CBD (Cannabidiol) is a product's active form, and CBDA usually doesn't appear in TAC measurements. 

TAC vs. THC and CBD Percentages

TAC indicates to consumers the total amount of cannabinoids in a cannabis product, which can also indicate the potency and effects. THC and CBD percentages may also appear on the packaging. These amounts will tell you what percentage of the product comprises each specific cannabinoid.

Potency testing determines how much of each cannabinoid is in a cannabis product. TAC is becoming the go-to measurement because it gives users a better understanding of the product as a whole. 

Benefits and Effects of TAC in Weed

Understanding TAC can be transformative for a cannabis consumer. Recreational users can choose between products listed with higher TAC levels with more active cannabinoids, which means the effects may be more intense.

In comparison, products with lower TAC levels may be more suitable for people who want a more low-key experience. Another factor of TAC is the Entourage Effect and how certain cannabinoids can work together to improve user experience. For medical users, products with high TAC and high CBD may provide more therapeutic benefits, like pain relief. 

TAC in Lab Testing and Labeling

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) are the two main methods of measuring TAC in cannabis products. These processes separate the cannabinoids in a prepared sample to indicate the numbers found in a product.

While TAC is relatively accurate, it’s important to remember that human error may occur, and accuracy can vary. The regulatory standards for measuring TAC vary by region, but most require accredited laboratories to test and label the product accurately. 

Conclusion

TAC measures the “total active cannabinoids” found in a cannabis product, which includes both significant cannabinoids like THC and CBD and minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, CBN, THCV, and more. This percentage can indicate the potency and effects of each product. Cannabis consumers can benefit from understanding TAC in their search for the best high or therapeutic purposes.  

FAQs

Does TAC make you high?

While TAC doesn’t get you high, the number indicated can indicate how strong a product is. Recreational users can choose between products listed with higher TAC levels with more active cannabinoids, which means the effects may be more intense. In comparison, products with lower TAC levels may be more suitable for people who want a more low-key experience.

What’s the difference between TAC and CBD?

TAC is the total number of cannabinoids in a product, while CBD is one of the most common cannabinoids. 

What does TAC do?

TAC measures the “total active cannabinoids” found in a cannabis product, which includes both significant cannabinoids like THC and CBD and minor cannabinoids.