CannaPiece Corp https://cannapiece.ca Innovative Cannabis Processing in Canada Tue, 05 Apr 2022 15:23:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.10 https://cannapiece.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-Blue_favicon-32x32.png CannaPiece Corp https://cannapiece.ca 32 32 420 Events in Canada https://cannapiece.ca/420-events-in-canada/ Wed, 30 Mar 2022 19:19:06 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=18924 April 20th, also known as 4/20, has become the International Day of Cannabis celebration and recognition. What first started with a group of Californian teenagers, who would meet outside their school every day at 4:20 to smoke weed, quickly become an international phenomenon. Cannabis festivals and rallies have been around since the 1970’s, to celebrate, educate and protest weed laws across the globe. These rallies and festivals would typically pop up on April 20th, because of the cultural significance of that day. 

April 20th, 2022, marks the fourth year of legal 4/20 celebrations in the Great White North. Since cannabis legalization 4 years ago, many Canadian cities have taken initiative to create fun and educational events and festivals to celebrate the newly legalized industry and products. If you want to check out a cannabis event in Canada, we have listed a few below that might spark your interest! Here are some of the hottest cannabis events this year. 

 

1.Niagara Falls 420 Expo

https://www.niagarafalls420expo.com/

Niagara Falls 420 Expo is a celebration of all thing’s cannabis & community. This year’s event will feature more than 30,000 square feet of all thing’s cannabis, including exhibitors, educational seminars, guest speakers, manufacturers, and more. North America’s largest celebration of all thing’s cannabis.
Community. Culture. Cannabis.

 

When: Saturday, April 23rd 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Where: 6815 Stanley Ave Niagara Falls, Canada

 

2. 420 Vancouver Cannabis Festival 

https://420vancouver.com/

420 Vancouver is the largest 4/20 protest and cannabis celebration on the planet. With over 100,000 in attendance and over 500 vendors every year, 420 is a unique, volunteer-run, non-profit event. Your contribution helps make 420 a safe event that is free to the public. It also goes to help us put on a free stage show, get important things like extra port-o-potties, and protect the grass at Sunset Beach!

When: Wednesday, April 20th, 2022

Where: Sunset Beach Park

 

3. 4/20 Screening: REEFER MADNESS 

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/420-screening-reefer-madness-1936-tickets-297349760137

Celebrate 4/20 at The Revue with a screening of REEFER MADNESS! 

When: Wed, April 20th, 2022, 4:20 PM – 5:45 PM ED

Where: The Revue Cinema. 400 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON

4. Cannabis Comedy Festival Presents: The 420 Show

https://www.blogto.com/events/cannabis-comedy-festival-presents-the-420-show-toronto/

Celebrate 420 with the Cannabis Comedy Festival. This 19+ Event is Canna Friendly. So, bring your own bud. Roll UP, Smoke UP, and enjoy a lineup of our best comedians. Featuring All Headliners from our Previous Shows! Prizes and games! 

When: Wed, April 20th, 2022, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Where: 1775 Danforth Ave, Toronto ON

5. 420 Toronto at Nathan Phillips Square

https://seeker.io/best-420-events/

The Toronto 420 Festival is an annual free event with a rad line up of speakers, bands, performers, and comedians. In addition to showing off local talent and entertainment, this fest “puts into action the democratic principles cherished by Torontonians in a show of support of Toronto’s cannabis culture.”

 

When: 2022 TBD

Where: Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto, Canada

Make sure to tune in to your local news station to hear about any local 420 events happening near you! Please note that most of these events are recommended 19+ because of potential cannabis consumption on site. Stay safe and have fun!

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The Role of Flavonoids and Terpenes in Cannabis https://cannapiece.ca/the-role-of-flavonoids-and-terpenes-in-cannabis/ Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:49:15 +0000 https://en.cannapiece.ca/?p=18836 Flavonoids and Terpenes are both highly important components in the cannabis plant in the way that they alter the affects you will receive from the cannabis strain you choose; however, they also play very different roles.

Both flavor, scent and color are possible in cannabis due to the synergistic qualities that terpenes and flavonoids share with one another, but they are also responsible for so much more that cannot be seen physically, but rather how they react with our bodies once consumed.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are the organic compounds that give each cannabis strain it’s unique scent and flavors. However, terpenes are not unique to cannabis. They can be found in almost every herb, flower and fruit. They are more widely known as the “essential oils” of today’s modern world. Scientists have discovered over 120 different terpenes found in the cannabis plant, all thought to alter the therapeutic benefits of each cannabis strain.

What Are Flavonoids?

Flavonoids are a diverse class of phytonutrients rich with antioxidants, found in almost all fruits, vegetables and plants. Scientists have identified thousands of flavonoids throughout nature. They have also discovered 20 flavonoids that are unique only to the cannabis plant. These cannabis-specific flavonoids, also known as cannaflavins, affect the way that we experience cannabis. They influence not only the colour of the strain, but also the aroma and flavor, and they work closely with cannabinoids and terpenes to provide the therapeutic effects many people experience when consuming cannabis.

The Role of Terpenes

Terpenes play a vital role in any cannabis experience. These oils interact with your body’s serotonin and dopamine systems through the endocannabinoid system that every human body contains. This interaction can control your psychoactive experience. Every cannabis strain contains a different combination of terpenes. Two cannabis plants would have the same cannabinoid structure but if the terpene structure differs, this could result in two very different psychoactive experiences. Terpenes are responsible for why you may feel energetic and excited after consuming one strain, and then feel sleepy and relaxed after consuming another.

Some prominent terpenes found in cannabis include:

  • Myrcene: Most cannabis strains that contain myrcene are typically indica-dominant strains. Myrcene has been reported for sedative effects, a preferred strain for nighttime use. It is also being studied to reduce inflammation and pain. You can usually find this terpene in medical strains that are given to patients undergoing cancer treatment.
  • Alpha-pinene: This is one of the many “Pinene” terpenes, which has been reported to help combat respiratory conditions and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
  • Linool: This terpene has been reported to have anxiety-reducing effects, known for its muscle relaxing properties and reducing feelings of nervousness
  • Humulene: If you are looking for a strain that won’t give you the munchies, strains that contain the humulene terpene may be for you. According to research, humulene may help us regulate our appetites.
  • Limonene: This terpene is being studied for its antioxidant effects and boosting the benefits of THC. It is also known for its sedative properties and has been in many popular strains for those struggling with mood disorders.

 

The Role of Flavonoids

Flavonoids are not unique to the cannabis plant, they can be found in all plants throughout nature, however there are flavonoids called “cannaflavins” that are specific to cannabis. They play an important role in determining the smell, colour, and taste of a strain. Every flavonoid contains some degree of antioxidants that are essential to how they affect your high.

Below are some of the most prominent flavonoids in the cannabis plant and the ways they may alter your experience while high:

  • Cannflavin A: Studies show that cannalavin A is pharmacologically active and possesses anti-inflammatory properties that might be stronger than those found in Aspirin!
  • Cannaflavin B and C: Both cannaflavins have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties like Cannaflavin A. They are exclusive to the cannabis plant and are being studied by researchers for their other potential medical benefits.
  • Kaempferol: This flavonoid may have the ability to help with symptoms of depression and reduce the risk of heart disease with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Quercetin: This flavonoid is being researched for its antioxidant, anti-depressant, anti-fungal and antiviral properties.
  • Sylmarin: Sylmarin is a flavonoid with antioxidant properties and is being studied for its potential cancer-fighting properties
  • Orientin: Last but not least, this flavonoid does it all—an antioxidant, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotectant—it’s commonly found in cannabis and tea.

 

Research is showing promise that flavonoids could boost the immune system, fight cancer and reduce the risk of strokes, amongst other things! Well, I guess we’ll see where future studies take us!

Better Together

Both flavonoids and terpenes play a vital role in the way that they alter the affects you will receive from the cannabis strain you choose – including the potential medicinal and therapeutic benefits you could receive. They can work individually to provide these benefits however they work best when the synergistic qualities they share are combined.

This experience is known as the “entourage effect”, a widely used term in the cannabis community that explains the synergistic nature of terpenes, flavonoids and cannabinoids working together to magnify the benefits of each compound. Research shows that human bodies are equipped with endocannabinoid systems – a network of receptors that cover almost every organ inside us.

This system allows cannabinoids to bind to the receptors, producing different effects, which is further influenced by terpenes and flavonoids. With the entourage effect, the different compounds found in cannabis will work together with the endocannabinoid system in your body to essentially distinguish what your high will be and what benefits you will receive.

So, although a single compound can provide benefits, the effects are significantly greater when they work together! The cannabis concentrates category is skyrocketing as more cannabis consumers are realizing that they can reap the benefits of these compounds by using concentrates, which have a larger number of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids when compared to natural flower.

Please note: *None of the statements above are made to influence or promote cannabis usage, they are based on scientific studies and research on the subject matter*

Sources:

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The Journey of the Joint https://cannapiece.ca/the-journey-of-the-joint/ Tue, 05 Oct 2021 19:45:05 +0000 https://en.cannapiece.ca/?p=18833 Jazz Era 

The alcohol prohibition of the 1920’s played a major role in the surging popularity of cannabis usage, in particular hand rolled joints. The introduction of speakeasies around the country, provided an underground hub where jazz music thrived, specifically New Orleans. Jazz musicians would tour around the country to these speakeasies, and bring their renown “jazz cigarettes”, aka rolled joints, with them. Cannabis was preferred by the musicians over alcohol because it allowed for them to get into “the best mood to perform”.

It also helped that cannabis was considered legal at this time. This meant that any cannabis smoker, or at the time known as a “Viper”, could roll and smoke a joint in public without legal consequences. Popularity for the plant quickly boomed in different genres of music like rock and roll, and the blues.

Eventually, the “Marihuana Tax Act of 1937” was federalized, which outlawed the possession and sale of the cannabis plant. Joints were specifically targeted in the media, with propaganda about “Reefer Madness” and that cannabis would drive you insane.

 

1960-1970 The Hippie Era 

During the 1960’s and 1970’s, the Vietnam War became not only a battle to stop the spread of communism, but also became a time for rebellion amongst the people. Specifically, rebellion against the government for change and freedom.

In the 1960’s, also known as “the Hippie Era”, smoking the cannabis joint turned from an act of madness, to an act of peace and love. It became a non-violent act of protest against the government, and brought people together under a collective revolution for change. In fact, soldiers in the Vietnam War were reported to have smoked cannabis in large quantities, with some reports stating that 70-80% of the troops had tried it.

 

The War on Drugs 

Everything changed in 1971, when former President Nixon declared his war on drugs. This eventually led to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in 1973. These new policies specifically targeted the cannabis smoking communities, and gave rise to mandatory sentencing and no-knock warrants. It also halted scientific research to evaluate the medical safety and efficacy of cannabis, and gave rise to skyrocketing incarceration rates, specifically amongst the black communities. Although cannabis is now legal in most states, there are still people serving time for cannabis-related charges. Protestors have called for justice and reform for these people as their previous charges are no longer considered a crime.

However, even with the federal control and political hysteria of the 70’s and 80’s, the tobacco paper companies and rolling paper industry in general, continued to follow the rise in cannabis consumption. Companies shifted marketing focus to adolescents and began adapting their paper material for cannabis needs to allow for longer smoking times.

 

Pre-Roll Fame 

Thanks to the decriminalization of cannabis over the years, and specifically the legalization of cannabis in the 21st century, today’s market is like nothing we’ve seen before. Consumers have the ability to choose from a wide variety of strains, sizes, cannabinoid ratios, and even the ability to choose pre-rolled joints – packed up and ready to smoke.

The pre-roll market is growing as consumers prefer the convenience and manufacturers recognize the importance of using top-shelf flower.

Pre-roll automation has also contributed to the number of pre-rolls on the market, thanks to the efficiency that cannabis manufacturers now have over the flower process. Semi-automated and automated production has allowed companies to increased amount of product and get it to the shelves quicker, meeting increased consumer demand.

 

The Present Market 

Pre-roll popularity is not slowing down any time soon. The sale of pre-rolls in the Canadian and U.S markets are outpacing the total market. They have become the second-fastest-growing product category as cannabis consumers shop for value products and enjoy the convenience of the pre-packaged good.

A report from the Ontario Cannabis Store, shows almost $97 million of pre-rolls were sold between April 2020 and March 2021, this is an increase of $42.6 million between April 2019 and March 2020.

Figure A from Seattle-based cannabis analytics firm Headset shows that across recreational markets in California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon (medical and adult use) and Washington state, pre-roll sales increased by 47.1% from $640.1 million in 2019 to $941.6 million in 2020.

Figure A

 

The Future 

With educated consumers and an increased roll-out of legal cannabis stores, brands are being pressured to meet demands for higher quality products. We can expect to see full-flower and craft pre-rolls customized based on the consumer and the occasion. We are starting to see pre-rolls specializing in size, twist, flavour, terpene profile, cannabinoid ratio, paper type and more, all making a large difference in consumer buying habits.

Investors and manufacturers are starting to understand not only the importance of getting a foot in the pre-roll market, but also educating themselves on the quickly evolving trends as consumers are placed to benefit from their continued evolution.

 

Sources:

https://www.greenentrepreneur.com/article/320968

https://www.leafly.ca/news/cannabis-101/cannabis-history-journey-joint

http://nintharticle.com/vietnam-drug-usage.htm

https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/cannabis-pre-roll-sales-soar-as-canadians-share-joints-less-during-pandemic-1.1633309

https://mjbizdaily.com/sales-of-cannabis-pre-rolls-up-nearly-50-in-2020-despite-pandemic/]]>
6Pak Creates Strategic Alliance with CannaPiece Corp https://cannapiece.ca/6pak-creates-strategic-alliance-with-cannapiece-corp/ Tue, 15 Dec 2020 20:23:40 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=16889 ATG Pharma’s packing arm joins forces with one of Ontario’s most extensive extraction facility to supplyhigh-demand products currently in shortage

TORONTODec. 14, 2020 /CNW/ – 6PAK Solutions Inc. (“6PAK“), the packing arm of ATG Pharma Inc., today announced a three-year Strategic Alliance with CannaPiece Corp. (“CannaPiece“), one of Ontario’s most sophisticated processors and manufacturers.

Through the formation of this alliance, CannaPiece Corp will be equipped to increase capacity, expertise and co-packing abilities – allowing the company to manufacture high demand Cannabis 2.0 and 3.0 products on behalf of their contract clients.

“This alliance with CannaPiece is a pivotal moment for 6Pak as we can now have the ability to take on co-packing contracts for our clients under a Health Canada License,” said Chris Shar, Co-Founder of 6Pak Solutions. “With Cannabis 3.0 on the rise, we want to continue to be a trusted partner to our clients by helping them bring new and innovative products to market faster and more efficiently. Through CannaPiece, we will be able to do so.”

Equipment supplied by 6Pak will operate out of CannaPiece’s 50,000 square foot, state-of-the-art Health Canada licensed facility in Pickering, Ontario. The facility currently offers a variety of services such as large-scale extraction, third party processing and production of edibles, topicals and concentrates. Alongside filling and packaging equipment, 6Pak will also bring their industry expertise in staffing and continuous enhancement and maintenance.

“Leveraging off ATG’s years of industry experience, 6Pak has had a front-row seat to the market evolution. Their trusted expertise and cutting-edge equipment make them the most suitable partner for CannaPiece as we seek to meet growing volumes and timelines,” said Eric Akbar, Vice President Operations, CannaPiece Corp. “The true beneficiaries of this alliance will be consumers as we position ourselves to get new innovative products to market faster, and free up company cash flow for the rapidly expanding market.”

CannaPiece’s trusted extraction services, custom formulations and delivery systems paired with 6Pak’s ready on time filling packaging solutions offers companies a unique, full turn-key solution to expand current product lines or develop new ones – creating the opportunity to gain market share in the rapidly growing space.

About 6Pak Solutions

6Pak Solutions is a contract packing arm of ATG Pharma Inc., a leader in regulatory compliant filling and packaging equipment for the Cannabis Industry. With a front-row seat to the market evolution, they have been experts in the cannabis space for over five years, working with the majority of Licensed Oil Producers in Canada. 6Pak Solutions offers more flexible contract packaging solutions, strategically partnering and operating out of Licensed Facilities.

About CannaPiece Corp.

Located in Pickering, Ontario, CannaPiece Corp is the processing and manufacturing arm of CannaPiece Group. With one of the most extensive extraction facilities in Ontario and state-of-the-art processing and manufacturing. The Pickering facility provides complete solutions for licensed producers seeking top of the line services such as research and product development, processing, large-scale extraction, tolling, and packaging services.

Source: Newswire

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A Guide to Cannabis Vape Pens https://cannapiece.ca/cannabis-vape-pens-guide/ Thu, 17 Sep 2020 13:50:27 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=16619 Cannabis vape pens are at the forefront of dominating the Cannabis 2.0 market in Canada. Although cannabis vaping is a relatively new trend, it’s roots come from ages ago in Ancient Egypt, where people would use hot stones to vaporize herbs. It was in the 15th century that the first hookah was introduced in India. After this, there were various attempts throughout the 1900’s to create a modern vaping device, including the first ever patent for an electronic vaporizer filed by Joseph Robinson for medicinal use. It wasn’t until 2004 when the first e-cigarettes were introduced in the Chinese market, followed by Asia, Europe, and the United States. It is because of these ancient inventions that vape technology has come to the forefront of its time today.

Source: The History of Vaping, The Kind Pen 2019

 

Coincidentally, it was also around this time that medical cannabis started to become legal in many states. Many people were using tabletop vaporizing devices to consume the cannabis flower. Handheld vaporizers were hard to find and had a variety of issues attached to them. Eventually, with the growth in research, cannabis vape technology improved, fixing major problems such as leaking and harmful chemicals that were used in early vaporizers. Metals and additives have been phased out and consumer awareness in product purchasing has also increased.

In the cannabis market now, we mostly see vapes that have pre-filled oil cartridges or pods with distillate or solvent-less oils.

What is Vaporizing?

Now that we’ve covered a brief global history of vaporizers, it’s important to discuss what vaping really means and how individuals experience cannabis vapor. Both cannabis flower and concentrates can be vaporized in a wide range of devices including pens, portable vaporizers and desktop vaporizers. For the purposes of this blog we are going to discuss the cannabis oil pen, one of the newest and most popular products on the market. There are three types of dominant vape pens in Canada; 510 threaded cartridges, disposable single-use pens, and closed-loop systems. However, the basic components remain the same across them all.

Let’s explore the important parts of the vape pen that create the magic:

Cannabis Vape Pen

1. Battery

Vape pen batteries are small but strong, in that they can make power a tiny heater to reach temperatures of up to 400 degrees in just a few seconds. These batteries are usually made from reusable lithium ion, providing them with high energy density and very low chance of ever exploding if charged wrong.

2. Atomizer

The atomizer in the vape pen is the tiny heater, one of the most important components because it allows for the cannabinoids, like psychoactive THC, to heat up and create small air droplets, resulting in the vapour that is inhaled.

3. Cartridge

Cannabis oil vape pens such as 510 threaded cartridges and disposables use single-use cartridges that are pre-filled with a distillate oil or concentrate to create an easy user experience with no mess. Some cannabis pens that use closed-loop systems have rechargeable batteries. The cartridges are sometimes combined with the atomizer to create one unit.

4. Inhaler

The inhaler is the small piece attached to the top of the vaporizer. Sometimes it is removable for cleaning and replacement purposes. The inhaler can come in various shapes and sizes and its usage is quite clear: to allow the vapour to flow through a clear pathway from the heating element directly to the mouthpiece for the user.

With that being said, the oil that fills that cannabis cartridge, to create a cannabinoid-rich puff of vapor, is quite arguably the most important part of any vaporizer. The difference between a high and a low-quality concentrate will ultimately decide the effects the user will feel and the experience they will have. It’s important for consumers to know the difference of quality in what is on the legal and black markets. The quality of cannabis oil will determine the taste, smell, feeling, mood, price of the pen, and more.

Different types of cannabis oils have different viscosity, flavours and effects which will be determined based on the strain type, cannabinoid levels, and the type of processing that was used to create the oil. Choosing the correct extraction method for the desired oil is key for a satisfying vape product. At CannaPiece Corp, we offer a variety of extraction methods including CO2 subcritical and CO2 supercritical extraction, ethanol-based extraction and hydrocarbon extraction. This allows for our team to refine the process for the desired oil, whether it be full spectrum or distillate, based on our customers specific needs.

The Future of Vape Pens

Recent data shows that the OCS (Ontario Cannabis Store) generated approximately $4.3 million in sales from cannabis 2.0 products in January 2020. Most of this revenue came from the newest cannabis 2.0 trend, vape pens (approximately $3.7 million). Other cannabis 2.0 products such as edibles couldn’t compare to this number. This means that for the total $33 million in cannabis sales that same month, vape pens accounted for 10% of all purchases in the province.

Demographics:

Recent demographical studies also reveal that younger demographics, specifically Generation Z and Millennials are the main purchasers of vape pens, at 20 and 21 percent of total sales. This is most likely due to reasons such as familiarity with vape products such as Juul, enticing flavours and discreteness. However, other demographics are becoming increasingly open to vape pens as well. For example, new categories of consumers that are starting to emerge include parents, health and wellness consumers, and business professionals who are looking for a discreet and odourless alternative to smoking.

Market Opportunity:

Cannabis vape pens are continuing to evolve steadily with the growing market. With more Canadians widening their spectrum of product purchasing and more high-quality concentrates coming to the market, researchers expect a steady growth over the next few years. According to Research and Markets, the global market for vaporizers is expected to cross $43 million by 2023.

Source: Vape Products Outdistance Other ‘Cannabis 2.0’ Products in Canada, Marijuana Business Daily 2020

CannaPiece Expertise

At CannaPiece Corp, we focus on maximum purity and high-quality oils for our customers. This means avoiding the use of any toxic additives or dilutants and testing to the highest standards in all areas of production. Our mission with every new relationship will always be customer satisfaction and maintaining high-quality standards. This starts from material intake, to processing the product, to final packaging. Everything we do, we do it with purpose.

Lift & Co has identified a variety of vape innovations to look out for this year, including childproof hardware, dosage control, and recyclable devices. We focus on the best hardware for the specific needs of our clients. We use innovation to provide the best vape formulations, extraction techniques, and cartridge technologies to create an outstanding vape experience.   

To stay up to date on new product offerings, please see our sign-up page to join our monthly mailing list.

References:
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Supercritical CO2 Extraction for High-Quality Oil https://cannapiece.ca/supercritical-co2-extraction/ Fri, 31 Jul 2020 20:39:00 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=16232

As the Cannabis market continues to grow, the desire for high-quality oils used in vaporizers, tinctures, capsules and edibles is also growing. One increasingly popular way to ensure a pure CBD or THC extract is by using supercritical CO2 extraction, and having the tools and expertise to operate the machine properly. 

What is Supercritical CO2 Extraction?

Supercritical CO2 extraction, also known as carbon dioxide extraction, has been around for many years and is highly recognized and utilized in the both the food and pharmaceutical industries. The CO2 method is a commonly used method to separate components of various plants, due to its ability to produce a pure and safe product. With the boom of the cannabis oil industry this year, it is becoming one of the most preferred ways to extract large quantities of high-quality cannabis desirables such as cannabinoids like CBD and THC.  

CO2 extraction machines can operate in two states: supercritical and subcritical. When CO2 is in a “supercritical” state, the parameters are set at high temperatures and high pressures, resulting in properties of both a liquid and a gas. Carbon dioxide is an excellent solvent as a supercritical fluid because it can have a near liquid density, low viscosity and diffuses quickly like a gas. This proves to be extremely useful for extracting the desirable cannabinoids from the plant because it can reach into small spaces to pull more out of the plant, while ultimately leaving no solvent residue behind. 

Typical extraction methods include the use of commercial solvents such as propane or butane, however CO2 has allowed for a safer, cleaner, and more selective method for cannabis extraction. 

 

So, why is Supercritical CO2 becoming one of the most sought after extraction methods to create high-quality oils? 

1. CO2 is Tuneable

The unique thing about CO2 extraction is that it is a tuneable solvent. This makes it extremely useful for creating a variety of versatile end products for the consumer. Depending on the machine parameters that are set- the temperature, pressure and the flow rate- the crude cannabis oil can be used in a variety of different products.

Since the physical properties of the supercritical CO2 fluid results in both a liquid and a gas, the molecule can be easily manipulated. This allows for it to bond to any molecule of the cannabis plant and reach into those small spaces to pull out even more oil from the plant. The molecules can move through a porous solid, while also dissolving a material within the solid. This enables targeting maximum outputs of cannabidiol, with the ability to keep the undesirable compounds such as chlorophyll out. 

2. CO2 is Safe

Unlike many organic solvents such as propane and ethanol, supercritical CO2 fluid is non-flammable, posing much less of a risk for the operators using it. Most importantly, CO2 is a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) solvent. GRAS means that the substance is exempt from the usual FFDCA food additive requirements. As opposed to the other hydrocarbon solvents such as propane and butane, supercritical CO2 will not pose a risk to the safety of the operation. 

3. CO2 is Clean

CO2 is preferred by many cannabis producers for its purity and cleanliness. Conventional solvents used in cannabis and hemp extraction such as propane, butane, and ethanol, can leave a minor amount of residue in the product. However, with CO2 if there is any residue left on the product, it will evaporate as CO2 becomes a gas at room temperature. This is appealing to many because of the guarantee of a pure product, with no residuals present. 

An added feature of CO2 is that it also acts as a cleaning agent during the process, killing out microbial bacterias, molds and mildews while extracting the plant. Many industries kill off bacteria with pesticides and chemicals, but CO2 extraction avoids the needs for using these dangerous substances, resulting in a CBD oil that is healthier to consume. 

At the end of the day, CO2 extraction gives consumers an excellent opportunity to experience a satisfying, broad-spectrum oil that can be added into a variety of cannabis 2.0 and 3.0 products.

Supercritical CO2 Extraction is one of our many methods of extraction at CannaPiece Corp. Find out more about how you can get the most out of your plant with our innovative technologies and superior operating techniques. 

Get in touch with us today to chat about your specific extraction needs. 

 


References:

http://www.herbceo.com/article/thc-extraction-methods-compared/

http://www.vitaliset.com/understanding-supercritical-co2-extraction-for-the-industry/

https://hempgazette.com/cannabidiol-cbd/co2-extraction-cannabis/

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5 Things You Should Know About Terpene Extraction https://cannapiece.ca/5-things-about-terpene-extraction/ Wed, 17 Jun 2020 22:24:22 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=15389 Terpene extraction is becoming more mainstream in the cannabis world. If you aren’t sure what Terpene extraction consists of, let’s start with the basics.

What is a Terpene?

Terpenes are the aromatic oils that provide taste and smell in cannabis and a variety of other plants as well. They are found in the same trichome glands as cannabinoids (THC and CBD) and can influence the effects of those strains by interacting with these cannabinoids. Distinctive terpene flavours in the cannabis community include pine, citrus, mint, lavender, and berry. Over 100 terpenes have been discovered in the cannabis plant, with many of those terpenes being studied for potential mental health benefits and mood-enhancement. In order to fully enjoy the benefits of the cannabis strain, terpene extraction plays a key role.

Terpene Oil

What is a Plant Extract?

Plant extraction is the process that aims to remove certain compounds from the tissue of a plant, usually using a solvent such as CO2 or Ethanol. This process is simply to isolate desirable properties of the plant into oils for uses in cooking, baking, smoking, vaping, topicals, wellness products, cosmetics, and more.

There are over 100 terpenoid compounds in cannabis, many with bioactive properties that are yet to be researched. Terpene extracts are gaining popularity in the cannabis community for their potential medicinal benefits and unique ability to alter the smell, taste, and effects of each specific cannabis strain.

For these reasons, it is becoming important for processors to know how to properly create terpene extracts and “terp” products. This means retaining the complexity of the terpene compounds and ensuring that the natural aromatic flavors are preserved throughout the process, in order to create a highly pure oil concentrate.

Here are 5 things you should know about quality terpene extractions:

    1. Terpene extractions are best achieved during a short, light run, preferably set at subcritical C02 parameters. This means using high pressure and low temperature in your extraction machine. This is said by many processors to be the best method of terpene extraction because the low temperatures greatly reduce the risk of altering or destroying the terpenes and protect delicate plant compounds. This process pulls the higher-molecular weight materials from the plant such as the paraffins, resins, and lipids. Tunable CO2 Extraction is our craft at CannaPiece Corp.

    2. It doesn’t end there! For a truly pure terpene extract, post-processing with specialized equipment is required to refine the oil using two processes. The first process, called Winterization, uses freezing temperatures to remove the leftover unwanted fats, waxes, lipids and chlorophyll from the cannabinoids and terpenes. 
    3. The next process, called Distillation or Short-Path Distillation, uses high heat to further refine the oil and isolate the cannabinoids and any remaining solvents out of the extract. You will be left with an authentic fragrant and flavorful terpene extract. 
    4. The terpene extract should appear as pure, and light with a golden hue. This is because the fatty substances and chlorophyll should be removed, leaving just the pure aromatic oils as the extract. You know you have done a good run based on the color of your extract! 
    5. The higher-end “Cannaisseur” Market is starting to look for a vast spectrum of products including terpene extractions, and terpene-based products such as “terp” sauce. Cannabis 2.0 products including concentrates, edibles, and topicals are already increasing in demand across Canada, but it takes a properly trained technician and high-quality operating techniques to create the pure aromatic extract that these consumers desire, and only a few companies are starting to provide these services.

There you have it! Terpene extracts can have a variety of aromas and tastes, depending on the specific terpenes that are extracted and collected from the strain of cannabis used. These can then be used in vape cartridges, tinctures, edibles, and many more versatile products.

If you are a licensed producer looking to expand your reach in the cannabis market and offer a highly desirable product to consumers through terpene extracts, connect with CannaPiece Corp today.

References

Booth, J. K., Page, J. E., & Bohlmann, J. (2017). Terpene Synthases from Cannabis sativa. PloS one, 12(3), e0173911.

Sexton, M., Shelton, K., Haley, P., & West, M. (2018). Evaluation of cannabinoid and terpenoid content: Cannabis flower compared to supercritical CO2 concentrate. Planta Medica, 84(04), 234-241.

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CannaPiece Statement On COVID-19 https://cannapiece.ca/cannapiece-statement-on-covid-19/ Mon, 30 Mar 2020 20:02:10 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=13563
CannaPiece Statement on COVID-19.
A message to our customers, suppliers, employees, and partners:

Nothing is more important to us at CannaPiece than the health and safety of our employees, customers, partners and their families.  Since it began, we have been closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 (novel Coronavirus) and early on made major changes geared towards protecting all of those who work and interact with our company and within our facilities.  We are following the guidance and directives of our government and health experts along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

In all cases possible, our staff is working from home and maintaining social distancing, leaving only for essentials (groceries, medication, etc.).  As a manufacturer that has been deemed an essential service, we do have employees that are required to continue to work from our facilities.  Within our offices and facilities we have enhanced our already comprehensive cleaning and sanitization procedures with instructions to increase the frequency of cleaning commonly touched surfaces, including bathrooms, touchscreens, door handles, equipment and security pin pads.  We have also implemented high-level screening (including mandatory detailed travel and health questions and the taking of temperature each day) of any person entering our premises.  Additionally, we have coordinated split shift schedules for staff to further protect their health and ensure the continuity of our business and services.

At CannaPiece, we understand the vital role that our people play and will continue to take the necessary precautions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  We look forward to coming out of these difficult times together, as a team. 

Thank you, 

The CannaPiece Corp family. 

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CannaPiece Corp. Receives Processing And Sales Licence From Health Canada https://cannapiece.ca/cannapiece-corp-licence/ Wed, 04 Mar 2020 20:04:02 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=13566 The licence authorizes CannaPiece Corp. to immediately begin the processing and manufacturing of cannabis and hemp products at their state-of-the-art, 50,000 sq. ft. facility located in Pickering, Ontario.

MARKHAM, ON , March 3, 2020 /CNW/ – CannaPiece Corp. (“CannaPiece” or the “company“) is pleased to announce it has been granted its Standard Processing and Sale for Medical Purposes Licence (the “licence“) from Health Canada on February 28, 2020 .

“We have been waiting anxiously for our licence and are ready to play a significant role in the newly established legal cannabis 2.0 market,” said Ray Ahmad Rasouli , CEO of CannaPiece Corp. “The licence marks only the beginning for our company, and we are excited by the opportunity to work with licensed producers whose visions align with ours — to deliver high calibre cannabis products to consumers.”

The Pickering facility will provide complete solutions for licensed producers seeking top of the line services such as R&D, product development, third-party processing, flower packaging, large-scale extraction, production of edibles, topicals and concentrates as well as white-labeled products to both domestic and international markets.

CannaPiece Corp. is motivated to deliver and preserve the quality and consistency of its cannabis processing for the clients who entrust in their services. The processing and manufacturing facility is equipped with the highest level of security and exceptional operating practices that allows the facility to become a fully EU-GMP certified facility in Canada .

About CannaPiece Corp.

Headquartered in Pickering, Ontario , CannaPiece Corp is a wholly owned subsidiary of CannaPiece Group; a Canadian based, vertically integrated cannabis company. CannaPiece Corp is a contract manufacturer in cannabis and hemp seeking to establish new standards in providing the industry with services and products to cover the gaps in the supply chain. They will offer a complete selection of high-quality services ranging from R&D, product development, third-party processing, packaging, large-scale extraction, production of edibles, topicals and concentrates as well as white-labeled products to both domestic and international markets.

For more information, please visit www.cannapiece.ca.

This Release may contain forward-looking statements which reflect management’s expectations regarding the Company’s objectives, plans, goals, strategies, future growth, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, performance, business prospects and opportunities. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this website, including statements regarding the Company’s objectives, plans, goals, strategies, future growth, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, performance, business prospects and opportunities, may constitute forward-looking information. Expressions such as “anticipates”, “expects”, “believes”, “estimates”, “could”, “intends”, “may”, “plans”, “predicts”, “projects”, “will”, “would” and other similar expressions, or the negative of these terms, are generally indicative of forward-looking statements.

These statements are based on CannaPiece Group management’s reasonable assumptions and beliefs considering the information available to them at the time such statements are made. The forward-looking information contained in this Release is presented for the purpose of assisting the Company’s security holders in understanding its financial position and results of operation as at and for the periods ended on the dates presented and the Company’s strategic priorities and objectives, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its very nature, the information requires the Company to make assumptions and is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties which give rise to the possibility that the Company’s predictions, forecasts, expectations or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that the Company’s assumptions may not be correct and that the Company’s objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. Although the Company believes that the predictions, forecasts, expectations or conclusions reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such matters will prove to have been correct. Such forward-looking information is not fact but only reflects management’s estimates and expectations. These forward-looking statements are subject to uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements.  These factors include but are not limited to: changes in general industry, market and economic conditions, competition from existing and new competitors, energy prices, supply issues, inventory management, changes in demand due to seasonality of the business, interest rates, changes in laws and regulations, operating efficiencies and cost saving initiatives.

Source: Yahoo Finance

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Global Responses to the Cannabis Trade https://cannapiece.ca/global-responses-to-the-cannabis-trade/ Wed, 09 Oct 2019 10:11:31 +0000 https://cannapiece.ca/?p=14934 Global Responses to the Cannabis Trade after the recent legalization in Canada.

Cannabis is on a roll, there is no doubt about that. With the recent legalization here in Canada, many other countries are starting to jump on board the cannabis train. This leaves many of us wondering, how will this affect the global cannabis market in the foreseeable future? To start, the Canadian cannabis market alone is projected to be worth more than $4.9 billion by 2020!

Historically, cannabis trade(the transport and sale of cannabis) across borders has always existed, but it has mostly only existed through the Black Market, or the illegal drug market. Now that cannabis is legal in Canada, this may change. We may soon be able to trade cannabis goods and products across national lines legally, or at least it looks like it could be on the horizon.

Around the world, attitudes surrounding cannabis culture are beginning to shift. One country after another is starting to see cannabis in a different light, one that no longer considers cannabis a drug but as a something that could one day be as normalized as alcohol. Mexico’s new government plans to legalize cannabis use, as well as parts of the United States. Many nations have not entirely legalized cannabis use, but have enacted varying degrees of legal cannabis use including both medical and recreational use. To satisfy the needs of the quickly growing legal cannabis market, many countries have begun importing and exporting cannabis in large quantities.

For example, Germany has already gained around 750,000 registered medical cannabis patients since the legalization of cannabis a few years ago, and have been importing cannabis products from Canada to satisfy the demand. With these countries beginning to move towards some form of legalization, many are also stuck trying to catch up.

As government opinions begin to change about cannabis trade and the potential money-making abilities that it could bring, public opinion is also changing. A big influence is because of how the media is portraying marijuana use. Support for legalization of marijuana is continuing to increase as many popular news media outlets are highlighting the potential benefits that cannabis can provide individuals suffering from various illnesses and conditions. The idea that cannabis can substantially improve the quality of life for so many individuals has many people turning away from the idea of cannabis as a drug and more as a medicine.

Despite the growing popularity of cannabis around the world, The UN World Health Organization is still ambivalent towards legalization of recreational cannabis. The UN has been notoriously known for adopting an anti-cannabis stance, and promoting it’s views through mainstream media by talking about the harmfulness of cannabis and why it is bad, ignoring the potential benefits it has. However with push from the public, the UN is beginning to adopt more modern views on cannabis, and conversations about changing the way cannabis is regarded, are being had.

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