A study published Tuesday in the journal Scientific Reports found just 56.7% of flower products tested within 15% of their labeled THC content, while 96% of concentrate products tested by the researchers contained within 15% of their labeled THC content. 

Researchers from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and MedPharm Holdings LLC, which operates as Bud & Mary’s, sampled 182 flower and 99 concentrate products – including 27 unique concentrate forms – from 52 Colorado dispensaries in 19 counties for the study between November 29, 2022, and October 3, 2023. Four flower products were excluded from the analysis due to misprinted or absent THC potency labeling.        

“Observed THC potency was significantly lower than labeled potency in both flower and concentrate products. Nearly all tested concentrate products met the accuracy threshold for THC content, whereas flower products frequently did not. Both product types had lower observed THC content compared to labeled values.” — “Accuracy of labeled THC potency across flower and concentrate cannabis products,” Scientific Reports, July 1, 2025    

The researchers found, for flower products, the mean labeled THC potency was 22.5% while the observed potency was 20.8%, while for concentrates, the mean labeled THC potency was 73.0% with an observed potency of 70.7%. 

The researchers note that “discrepancies between federal and state cannabis laws have resulted in varied regulation and oversight.” 

Inflated THC levels reported on cannabis product labels have long been an issue in the industry, and lawsuits have been filed against cannabis companies and laboratories in Arkansas, California, and Massachusetts. In 2020, regulators in Washington state suspended the license of Praxis Labs after finding it had falsified over 1,200 results in order to inflate THC levels. A study published last year in the Journal of Cannabis Research that analyzed 107 adult-use flower products collected at random by law enforcement in California, Oregon, and Colorado found over 70% of products fell outside of a 20% accuracy threshold for THC potency – of which all but one of the inaccurately labeled products included inflated THC levels.    

Edibles have become mainstream and this summer a a fresh flavor has burst on the scene!

Edibles have been become mainstream, from Gen Z using them to manage anxiety to boomers using them for pain management, they are now part of a majority of people’s lives.  Gummies make up over 85% of the edible market, but can you guess the new hot flavor for cannabis this summer?  Watermelon, blue raspberry, raspberry and strawberry have been key flavors in the edibles market.  But this summer, there is a most have new taste for your chill.

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Orange is taking center stage in the cannabis world, quickly becoming the must-try flavor of the season. From citrusy sativas to tangy vape cartridges and edibles, consumers are reaching for strains and products with bold orange notes that promise both flavor and effect.

Strains like Orange Creamsicle, Tangie, and Clementine are flying off dispensary shelves, praised for their uplifting, energetic highs and zesty terpene profiles. The dominant terpenes—like limonene and myrcene—not only offer mood-boosting benefits but also deliver that unmistakable sweet-tart aroma reminiscent of fresh oranges and summer sunshine.

“Orange is a popular flavor lately. Customers love a citrus strain, and the trend is shifting from lemons and limes to orange. Watermelon used to be the top flavor across all categories, but blue raspberry has taken its place. Watermelon is still a top 5 flavor though,” said Ryan Torchin, GM & Buyer Planet 13 Orange County.

Cannabis brands are leaning into the trend, launching orange-infused gummies, live resin concentrates, and pre-rolls designed to capture that bright, refreshing essence. With consumer preferences shifting toward flavorful, fruit-forward experiences, orange hits the perfect note between nostalgia and novelty.

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One of the new tasty strains flying off the shelf is Orange Push Pop. It is also known as Emergen-C, and is an exhilarating strain brought to you by the master breeders at Seed Junky Genetics. With its lineage rooted in Orange Push Pop crossed with the classic Sherbet strain, this variety sets the bar high for aromatic and flavorful experiences. Orange Push Pop is as visually appealing as it is flavorful. Orange Push Pop has this sweet, juicy orange smell which is hard to resist and a hint of creaminess.  It is similar to the orange creamsicle. 

Whether you’re a seasoned user or just exploring the scene, this citrus wave offers a delicious way to enjoy cannabis with a seasonal twist. Keep your eye on orange—it’s more than a flavor, it’s the summer’s statement strain.