Edible THC candy bars made with chocolate have been gaining popularity in recent years, offering a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis. Consuming THC chocolates offers the delicious taste of a familiar confection while providing precise servings that make it easy for users to monitor their intake. However, the delayed effects of edibles can sometimes lead to overconsumption, making it essential to understand how they work. Let’s dive into the science behind chocolate THC bars and explore some of the top brands available on the market.
What Is THC and Why Is It Sold in Chocolates?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It is responsible for the "high" that users experience when consuming marijuana. THC interacts with the human body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in supporting your appetite, mood, and muscle comfort, among other functions. When THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain, it produces a range of effects, including bliss, relaxation, and heightened sensory perception.
The decision to infuse THC into chocolates can be attributed to a few factors. First and foremost, chocolate serves as an excellent vehicle for masking the strong, earthy taste of cannabis, making it more palatable for those who may not enjoy the flavor of marijuana in its raw form. Additionally, chocolate's high fat content aids in the absorption of THC, allowing for a more efficient delivery method compared to other types of edibles.
Moreover, chocolates offer a familiar and discreet way to consume THC, especially for those who prefer not to smoke or vape. By incorporating THC into a chocolate bar, users can easily control their serving size by breaking off small pieces according to their desired amount.
How Chocolate Bar Edibles’ THC Absorption Is So Strong
Chocolate plays a significant role in enhancing the absorption of THC in the human body, primarily due to its high fat content. THC is a lipophilic compound, meaning it dissolves well in fats and oils. When THC is infused into chocolate, the cannabinoids bind to the fats present in cocoa butter, creating a more efficient delivery system for the body to absorb the THC.
The process of digestion also contributes to the absorption of THC in chocolate. As the chocolate is broken down in the stomach, the fats are emulsified by bile salts and enzymes, which help release the bound THC.
Once the THC is released from the fats, it can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine. This absorption process allows the THC to reach the liver, where it is metabolized into its more potent form, 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound is known to produce a stronger and longer-lasting effect compared to THC that is inhaled.
Furthermore, the presence of chocolate may have an indirect impact on the absorption of THC by affecting the user's mood and overall experience. Chocolate contains compounds such as theobromine and phenylethylamine, which are known to induce feelings of pleasure and well-being.
These mood-enhancing properties may contribute to a more positive experience when consuming an edible THC chocolate bar, potentially influencing the user's perception of the psychoactive effects.
What Are the Effects of Chocolate THC Bars?
The effects of chocolate THC bars can vary based on factors such as the individual's tolerance, metabolism, and the specific amount consumed. However, some general effects can be expected when consuming these cannabis-infused edibles.
Delayed Onset
Unlike smoking or vaping, which produce almost immediate effects, ingesting chocolate THC bars results in a delayed onset of psychoactive effects. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects to begin, as the THC must first be absorbed through the digestive system and metabolized by the liver.
Longer Duration
The effects of chocolate THC bars tend to last longer compared to other methods of consumption. Users can experience the psychoactive effects for anywhere between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the serving size and individual factors. This extended duration is due to the gradual release of THC into the bloodstream as it is processed by the digestive system.
Potency
As mentioned earlier, ingested THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent and has a longer-lasting effect than inhaled THC. Consequently, the effects of chocolate THC bars can be more intense and longer-lasting, even at lower amounts.
Physical and Mental Effects
The effects of chocolate THC bars can include relaxation, euphoria, heightened sensory perception, and an altered sense of time. Users may also experience dry mouth, munchies, and drowsiness. In some cases, higher servings or individual sensitivities can lead to undesirable effects such as temporary paranoia or dizziness.
It's essential to start with a low amount and be patient when consuming chocolate THC bars, as it can take time for the effects to manifest. Users should wait at least two hours before considering an additional serving to avoid overconsumption and potential negative side effects.
How Are Chocolate THC Bars Made?
THC chocolate bars are an interesting fusion of culinary expertise and cannabis science. These treats involve a precise process that combines the two elements, resulting in a unique and potent experience. Let's explore the steps involved in crafting these THC-infused chocolate bars.
To make THC chocolate bars, this compound must be extracted and converted into a form that can be easily infused into the chocolate. The extraction starts with decarboxylating the cannabis plant material. This process involves heating the plant at a specific temperature for a certain duration, activating the THC, and making it more bioavailable.
Once the cannabis is decarboxylated, THC is extracted using a solvent like coconut oil or butter. The plant material is combined with the chosen solvent and heated gently, allowing the THC to bind with the fats in the oil or butter. Remember, THC likes fat! After several hours, the mixture is strained, leaving the THC-infused solvent behind.
With the THC-infused oil or butter ready, it's time to work with the chocolate. High-quality chocolate is melted gently in a double boiler, ensuring consistent temperature and avoiding scorching. When the chocolate reaches a smooth consistency, the THC-infused oil or butter is blended in. Thorough mixing is crucial to ensure an even distribution of THC throughout the chocolate.
Optional ingredients such as nuts, dried fruits, or cookie bits can be added to the mixture to create a customized taste. Once the desired ingredients are incorporated, the chocolate is carefully poured into molds and left to cool and solidify.
Popular Chocolate THC Bar Brands
Not sure which edible THC candy bars are right for you? We’ve picked five popular and widely available options that have captured the hearts of cannabis enthusiasts across the nation. Not only do they offer a unique experience, but these brands also prioritize safety and quality by undergoing third-party testing for purity. Check out these highly sought-after THC chocolate bars that are raising the bar in the edibles market.
Blue Planet Chocolate
Blue Planet Chocolate is a brand that has made a name for itself in the world of THC-infused edibles. Founded by chocolatier and cannabis enthusiast Jane Smith in the picturesque city of Boulder, Colorado, the brand has grown rapidly since its inception in 2010. Blue Planet Chocolate's mission is to create high-quality, ethically sourced, and sustainably produced THC chocolate bars while maintaining a strong commitment to their customers' well-being. The company's values are deeply rooted in promoting responsible consumption, supporting local farmers, and ensuring that each batch of chocolate meets its exacting standards.
With a diverse range of THC chocolate bars, Blue Planet Chocolate caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Their innovative recipes feature unique combinations of flavors, textures, and potencies, making them a popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts.
Among their many offerings, the best-selling Blue Planet Chocolate bar is their Delta 9 CBD 1:1 Bar. These chocolate THC bars have equal parts CBD to THC, which can make for a clear-headed high that supports focus and a good mood.
This crowd-pleaser combines milk chocolate with hazelnuts and a balanced THC content. As Blue Planet Chocolate continues to grow and expand, they remain dedicated to its founding principles, delivering exceptional products that its customers can use with confidence.
3Chi
3Chi is a renowned brand in the THC edibles industry, known for its innovation and commitment to quality. Founded by biochemist Sam Campbell in 2019, the company is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. 3Chi's mission is to provide consumers with safe, effective, and enjoyable THC products backed by scientific research. The brand places a strong emphasis on transparency, customer education, and continuous improvement, ensuring that its customers have access to the best possible THC-infused chocolate bars.
3Chi offers an impressive array of THC edibles, each thoughtfully crafted to cater to different tastes and potency preferences. Utilizing premium ingredients and advanced extraction techniques, the brand has quickly become a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
Their best-selling THC chocolate is the Delta 9 THC Milk Chocolate Bar. Like Blue Chocolate Plant’s top-seller, these chocolate THC bars have a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio. If you want a more potent punch, consider the 25mg Delta 9 Brownie!
Delta Extrax
Delta Extrax is a trailblazer in the THC edibles market, with a reputation for producing high-quality and potent products. Founded by entrepreneur and cannabis enthusiast John Miller in 2014, the company is based in Los Angeles, California.
Among Delta Extrax's impressive lineup of products, the top-selling Delta 9 Live Resin Dark Chocolate Bar stands out as a fan favorite. Live resin is a highly concentrated form of cannabis extract obtained by flash-freezing freshly harvested plants and processing them at extremely low temperatures. This method preserves the plant's full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, resulting in a more potent and flavorful product.
The combination of live resin and dark chocolate provides an enhanced THC experience. Dark chocolate is known to contain healthy fats that can help with the absorption of THC, ensuring a more effective experience for consumers.
Xite
Xite is a dynamic and forward-thinking brand in the THC edibles industry, focused on creating high-quality, innovative, and accessible products. Founded by Sarah Johnson in 2016, the company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.
What sets Xite apart is their popular line of mini THC chocolate bars. Available in dark and milk chocolate, these are individually wrapped squares with precise THC servings that are perfect for on-the-go cannabis consumption.
Each bar is carefully crafted to deliver a consistent serving of THC that appeals to both seasoned cannabis users and newcomers alike. As the brand continues to grow and evolve, they remain dedicated to providing its customers with exceptional THC-infused chocolate bars that set a new standard for excellence in the industry.
Kiva Confections
Kiva Confections is a leading brand in the THC edibles market, renowned for its dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Established in 2010 by Scott Palmer and Kristi Knoblich in San Francisco, California, the company has since expanded its reach across several states. Kiva Confections' mission is to provide consumers with safe, consistent, and delicious THC-infused products that elevate the cannabis experience. The brand's core values center around using premium ingredients, maintaining strict quality control, and championing environmental stewardship to ensure that their customers enjoy the very best THC edibles.
Kiva Confections' top-selling product, Midnight Mint Dark Chocolate CBN, is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation. This unique chocolate bar combines the benefits of both THC and CBN (cannabinol), a lesser-known cannabinoid with promising potential sleep benefits.
By incorporating CBN into their chocolate bars, Kiva Confections offers a distinct experience tailored to consumers seeking specific benefits from their cannabis consumption. As the brand continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of THC edibles, Kiva Confections remains dedicated to delivering exceptional products that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of their loyal customer base.
Are Edible THC Chocolate Bars Legal?
The legality of THC chocolate bars varies greatly depending on the location and jurisdiction in which they are being sold or consumed. In the United States, for instance, the sale and use of THC-infused products, including chocolate bars, are subject to a complex patchwork of federal, state, and local laws. While some states have fully legalized the recreational use of cannabis and its derivatives, others only permit medical use or continue to maintain strict prohibition.
In order to be 2018 Farm Bill compliant, chocolate bars may contain up to 0.3% THC per dry weight if the product is made from hemp. However, you should read the product’s lab reports to confirm the THC content is within legal limits before purchasing.
Navigating this legal landscape can be challenging for consumers and businesses alike. It is essential to familiarize oneself with the specific regulations governing THC products in one's area of residence or travel. This may include understanding restrictions on possession limits, purchase age, and approved distribution channels.
As the legal status of THC-infused edibles continues to evolve across different jurisdictions, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed and ensure that they consume these products responsibly and in compliance with all applicable laws. Additionally, businesses operating in the THC edibles market must also adhere to the necessary regulations around production, marketing, and distribution to avoid any legal repercussions.
Are Chocolate THC Bars Right for Me?
The rising popularity of THC chocolate bars can be attributed to their potential benefits and the growing interest in alternative methods of cannabis consumption. These discreet edibles offer a convenient means for users to consume precise servings of THC.
As a result, chocolate bar edibles with THC may be beneficial for supporting relaxation, muscle comfort, and improved mood. As research into the potential benefits of cannabinoids continues to advance, THC-infused chocolate bars are likely to remain a sought-after option for those seeking a controlled and effective way to incorporate cannabis into their wellness routines.
Hannah Smith is Joy Organics Director of Communications. She is driven by her passion for providing clear and accessible wellness and CBD education. In 2015, she received her BA in Media, Culture and the Arts from The King’s College in New York City and before Joy Organics, worked as writer and photographer in the Middle East and North Africa. Her work has been featured on Forbes, Vice, Vox, Denver Post, and the Coloradoan.
