Exploring Pre-Rolls

A Comprehensive Guide

Pre-rolls have become a major buzzword in the world of cannabis, but they’re much more than just a hot topic. Pre-roll technology is becoming more and more refined and elevated, thanks to cannabis pioneers and dispensaries across the country. Through the push for cannabis accessibility, the number of unique pre-rolls on the market, including coated cones or pre-rolls infused with wax or rosin, has skyrocketed. The technology behind cannabis pre-rolls is getting better and better, so the possibilities with pre-roll types are endless. 


Whether this is your first time reading about cannabis pre-rolls or if you’ve been a long-time user, you’re sure to come away from this guide with a better understanding of pre-roll types, unique pre-rolls, current pre-roll technology and pre-roll accessories.


You’ve probably heard friends talking about pre-rolls from the dispensary, or maybe you’ve even seen them in your own local dispensary trips. Let’s start with the basics.


What Are Cannabis Pre-Rolls?



Cannabis pre-rolls are joints, aka cannabis cigarettes, that are already rolled for you. Cannabis pre-rolls are rolled at dispensaries using machines that are designed to pack cannabis flower into a cone. They have filters, which prevent small cannabis particles from entering your mouth while cooling the smoke and protecting your mouth from burns. 


Pre-rolls come in various strains including sativa, indica and hybrids, which can all be commonly packed as pre-rolls in dispensaries. Sativa pre-rolls produce an energized and uplifting effect, while indica pre-rolls create calming, sedative feelings.


So why are pre-rolls common? What’s all the hype about? Well, if you’re not an experienced joint roller, or you simply don’t have time to roll up, pre-rolls are a great option for grab-and-go cannabis consumption. They’re quick, easy, and always ready to go. Plus, you can often save money buying a pre-roll versus top-shelf flower. This is because they typically aren’t rolled with premium cannabis — instead, pre-rolls usually contain cannabis trim or cannabis shake (the flower that falls off of the nugs naturally over time). 


If you’re looking for a top-tier pre-roll experience, you may want to find more unique pre-rolls. There are many types of pre-rolls, so don’t worry! You’ll find various convenient options at your local dispensary.


Types of Pre-Rolls



There are a few different types of pre-rolls you’ll find at dispensaries, including some unique pre-rolls. 


Infused pre-rolls tend to be top sellers because of their potency. These cannabis pre-rolls are infused with cannabis extracts, or concentrates to create a higher potency product that has more flavour and strength from the presence of additional terpenes and trichomes. 


How do infused pre-rolls work? THC concentrates like oil, kief or hashish are rolled into the joint along with the cannabis flower. You may also find coated pre-rolls, which might be coated in rosin and dipped in kief, for example.


Another type of pre-roll is a cone. Cones refer to the shape of the rolling paper, which is then packed with cannabis. Pre-roll cones achieve perfect shape and form, whereas joints can get crumpled, smooshed or torn. The cone acts as a shaped container, which is then packed with cannabis.


Mini Pre-Rolls

Mini pre-rolls are ideal for those who don’t want to smoke an entire gram of cannabis. Because mini pre-rolls contain less cannabis plant material, these pre-rolls are not only smaller in weight but they’re often shorter and thinner. In other words, mini pre-rolls are simply a smaller version of the average cannabis pre-roll.


THC Pre-Rolls

THC pre-rolls contain THC-rich cannabis flower. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that produces the “high” or euphoric effects commonly associated with cannabis use. THC pre-rolls typically contain ground cannabis flower with varying levels of THC potency, depending on the strain used and the desired effects.


CBD Pre-Rolls

CBD pre-rolls contain CBD-rich cannabis flower. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that is known for its potential therapeutic effects, such as relaxation, stress relief, and pain management, without causing the intoxicating effects typically associated with THC. CBD pre-rolls typically contain ground cannabis flower with higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC compared to THC pre-rolls. They offer a convenient and smokeable option for individuals seeking the potential benefits of CBD without getting high.


Blunt Pre-Rolls

Blunt pre-rolls are made using cigar wraps or blunt wraps instead of traditional rolling papers. Blunt wraps are made from tobacco leaves and are typically larger and thicker than rolling papers. They can add a unique flavour profile to the cannabis and can often contain nicotine, depending on the specific wrap used. These pre-rolls are generally larger and thicker th​an the standard pre-rolled joint.


Hybrid Pre-Rolls

Hybrid pre-rolls are created with a hybrid variety of cannabis. Most typically, hybrid strains are a mix of both sativa and indica lineage, bringing consumers the best of both worlds. Most strains on the market today are hybrids, as there are not many true landrace indica or sativa genetics circulating.


Hemp Pre-Rolls

Hemp pre-rolls are similar to CBD pre-rolls in that they typically contain CBD-rich flower. However, hemp pre-rolls contain little to no THC, unlike the standard CBD pre-roll. Hemp is qualified as having less than 0.3% THC concentration.


Organic Pre-Rolls

Organic pre-rolls are pre-rolled cannabis joints made from organically grown cannabis flower. “Organic” refers to the cultivation method used to grow the cannabis plants, which involves avoiding synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals. Instead, organic farming relies on natural methods to nourish and protect the plants, such as composting, crop rotation, and the use of natural pest control methods.


Flavoured Pre-Rolls

Flavoured pre-rolls have been infused or coated with various flavours to enhance the smoking experience.


There are several methods for flavouring pre-rolls:
  • Infusion: Some flavoured pre-rolls have the cannabis flower infused with flavouring agents during the curing or drying process. This way, the flavour permeates the flower itself, providing a consistent taste throughout the joint.
  • Coating: Others may have the exterior of the joint coated with flavouring agents, such as terpene-infused oils or extracts, before or after rolling.
  • Flavoured Papers: Some pre-rolls use rolling papers that are already flavoured.


Premium Pre-Rolls

Premium pre-rolls typically offer higher quality cannabis flower, meticulous craftsmanship, and sometimes unique features or enhancements compared to standard pre-rolls:

  • Infusion: An infused pre-roll is made using dried cannabis flower along with cannabis extract/concentrate. Most commonly, THC distillate is added to the inside of the pre-roll’s paper as it is being rolled or packed with flower. This gives the pre-roll higher potency and more flavour than it would have with flower alone. Some infused pre-rolls are also dipped in kief for exceptionally strong effects.
  • Hand-crafted: Many premium pre-rolls are hand-crafted by professional rollers, who ensure consistency and quality throughout the joint. Some professional rollers are also skilled at rolling different shapes, too, which can enhance the smoking experience.
  • Top-shelf Strains: Some premium pre-rolls include high-quality organic and/or lab-tested cannabis. These top-shelf strains are generally fresher and typically carry stronger potency, and flavour profiles.


Innovations in Pre-Roll Technology



The technology involved in the production of pre-rolls is fresh and innovative, creating the perfectly packed pre-roll every time. How? 


Specially designed machines use a powerful combination of robotics, gravity and vibration patterns to shift the ground cannabis flower into the cones. Some machines do both the grinding of the flower and the packing of the joints, all in one, while maintaining the direction, pressure, and speed of the pack. Machines must separate and seal the cones at the end of the process. It’s crucial to avoid poking any holes in the paper, and an over-packed joint won’t burn correctly. The machines involved in making pre-rolls avoid these while creating consistent pre-rolls.


Pre-Roll Accessories for Consumers



There are many pre-roll accessories on the market that can heighten your experience with cannabis pre-rolls. For example, special lighters, ashtrays, joint holders and storage containers are now on the market to elevate your cannabis consumption experience.


Final Notes on Cannabis Pre-Rolls

Overall, if you’re looking for the most convenient way to enjoy cannabis flower, pre-rolls are your way to go. Next time you go into your local dispensary, ask about the various types of pre-rolls they offer. 


If you’re curious to try infused pre-rolls or pre-roll cones, request information about the dispensary’s options for unique pre-rolls. While most typical pre-rolls contain shake or trim, if you’re interested in a more premium experience, you can request top-shelf or infused pre-rolls to satisfy your desire. With the latest pre-roll technologies and innovations, more and more options are available. And time will only tell where the future of pre-roll technology will take us!


Source: CannaCon.org, Veriheal.com


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What is HHC
Hexahydrocannabinol