What Is TAC in Weed?
Cannabis consumers are likely to have come across the abbreviation “TAC” on cannabis product labels. So, what is TAC in weed and why does it matter? TAC refers to the "total active cannabinoids" found in a cannabis product. Consumers can use this information to work out which effects they can expect from a given cannabis strain.
The TAC figure is important because there are many more active compounds found in the cannabis plant than just THC and CBD. The TAC figure allows consumers to make an informed decision at the point of purchase.
What Is TAC on Cannabis Product Labels?
TAC or “total active cannabinoids” on cannabis product labels is a measure of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids found within any given cannabis flower. While CBD and THC percentages matter, they're not the only things to look out for when choosing a product. There are more than 110 cannabinoids that occur in cannabis plants—all of which have distinct benefits and effects.
Cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabichromene (CBC) are some of the most well-known “minor” cannabinoids, but you might see other cannabinoids listed as well. TAC labels can differ in how they deliver the information. Some give a cumulative figure while others list the individual cannabinoids present. Some product labels even list the terpenes and flavonoids in the strain. This provides more information about the strain’s smell, flavor, and potential therapeutic benefits.
THC vs TAC
These two acronyms denote different concepts. TAC specifies the chemical composition of cannabis products by listing all its active cannabinoids. This figure shows the product's total cannabinoid levels, taking THC and CBD content into account. This is in contrast to “THC” (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is only one compound found in cannabis. The THC percentage of a given product is usually displayed separately on the label.
What Is and Isn't Included in the TAC Figure?
The TAC measures the concentration of active cannabinoids. These include:
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC is the most abundant cannabinoid in marijuana and is the chemical that produces the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis use.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is known for its potential health benefits including its role in relieving stress and insomnia. CBD isn't a psychoactive cannabinoid and therefore won't cause a consumer to feel high.
Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, may offer some therapeutic effects like an improvement in ADHD symptoms.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
CBG appears to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nausea properties and can reduce intraocular pressure.
Acidic Cannabinoids
Acidic cannabinoids become active when exposed to heat (a process known as decarboxylation) and are also included in the TAC figure. THCA, CBDA, and CBGA are some of the most well-known acidic cannabinoids. We explore the differences between the “raw” and decarboxylated versions of THC in our article about THCA vs Delta 9.
Why Is TAC Important?
The TAC figure on cannabis product labels is important because it allows consumers to make informed decisions about the product they’re buying. TAC information could be especially useful to facilitate understanding of how much to consume, especially for novice consumers.
Whether you're searching for recreational or medical marijuana, having a good idea of the compounds in your product before consuming it is wise. Many people check food labels to get an idea of what to expect from a product and how it fits into their diet. Weed consumers should also be able to make an informed decision about the cannabinoids they want to consume.
TAC and the Entourage Effect
The total cannabinoid percentage gives the consumer a detailed idea of the whole product rather than its THC or CBD content alone. The cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in weed could work together synergistically in a phenomenon called the entourage effect. This theory suggests that the interactions between a strain’s terpenes and cannabinoids contribute to the strain’s overall effects. TAC labeling acknowledges the importance of these interactions by providing the “bigger picture” of the product’s chemical composition.
Where Can You Find the TAC on Cannabis Product Packaging?
You can generally find the TAC information on the product’s label as a single number or as a complex breakdown of cannabis compounds. The TAC is sometimes located next to information about where or when the product was tested. Labeling on weed products hasn't yet been standardized because cannabis labeling is regulated at a state level rather than a federal level.
Other Things TAC Stands for in Cannabis
TAC on cannabis product labels refers to the product's total active cannabinoid content. However, the acronym can also mean "total aerobic count" when used on a product’s certificate of analysis. This is one of the tests performed on cannabis products in a laboratory.
Total aerobic count measures the number of microbes found on a product. This is useful to determine if the product has been grown in sanitary conditions. Reputable dispensaries—including our chain of dispensaries in Seattle, WA—only stock cannabis products that come with all of the lab tests that are required by law.
Make an Informed Choice with TAC Information
Familiarizing yourself with TAC labeling can help you select new products that match the effects you’re looking for. Understanding a product's TAC can also be invaluable when working out the right starting dosage.
Detailed product labeling in general makes it easier for you to tailor your marijuana consumption to your preferences and needs. Ask a staff member in your local dispensary for assistance if you're not sure how to interpret a product's TAC or want more information about the effects you’re likely to experience with a product you haven’t tried before.