Edibles Chocolate 101: A Comprehensive Overview of the Tastiest Edibles on the Market

Before diving headfirst into edible chocolate, did you know that the edibles industry is predicted to reach an $11.8 billion net worth by the year 2027? If that holds true, it means there would have been a staggering 22.3% increase between the years 2020 and 2027. These numbers may sound crazy on the surface, but going a layer or two under the crust, the reason for this rapid growth is pretty clear. Simply put, between the massive amounts of gummies, drinks, pops, to the iconic cannabis-infused brownies, it is the most delicious way to get a cannabis dose!

But here’s the zinger.

Yes, there are so many quality edibles out there and countless brands that deliver them. Pantry just so happens to be one of them! But the king of all infused combinations (backed by good ol’ science) is none other than cannabis and chocolate. Edibles chocolate , such as our premium cacao bites, sounds as wonderful as it tastes. In a nutshell, edibles chocolate  is a soulmate combo all the way down to the granular level that offers an exceptionally unique set of health and wellness advantages, all while fulfilling those intense chocolate cravings at the same time.

Why Does Cannabis and Chocolate Work  Well Together?

When I said cannabis and chocolate were soulmates, I wasn’t kidding. For starters, chocolate contains caffeine, which on its own stimulates the nervous system/mind, making you feel those uplifted and energized pharmacological effects. The cocoa bean is also a reputable vasodilator, meaning it can increase the blood and nutrient flow throughout the body. Fun fact, this is why so many people tend to love drinking coffee with their cannabis, but we can get into that another day. Lastly, chocolate has two compounds that are called N-oleolethanolamine (OEA) and N-linoleoylethanolamine (18:2 LOEA).

The structure of this contains a lot of chemicals, but bear with me because I promise it all connects.

N-oleolethanolamine (OEA) and N-linoleoylethanolamine (18:2 LOEA) are the two players that allow you to experience more amplified effects of cannabis edibles. You see, because the body is pre-wired to interact with THC and CBD because we naturally produce them, these compounds can influence more anandamide levels in the brain just like cannabinoids do. For the record, anandamide, also known as "the blissful molecule' is a lipid fatty acid that delivers similar effects as THC. In summary, because the anandamide in chocolate and the THC in cannabis have very similar structures and effects, intertwining them together like you see with the cacao bites results in a mind-blowing, euphoric experience that is both enhanced and lasts much, much longer. 

How Much Edibles Chocolate Should You Consume?

Now that the science part is out of the way, let’s talk dosage. The last thing us here at Pantry is for you to have a negative experience because you took too little or too much edibles chocolate.  Though we do provide a dosage guideline of 2.5mg of THC and 2.5 mg of CBD to start and work your way up as you feel necessary, here is a more in-depth overview to leverage, ranging from newbie to full-blown pro. 

• First time consumer or micro-doser: Try aiming between 1 mg and 2.5 mg to start. At this amount, you will feel mild pain relief, less anxiety, and improved focus. After you wait some time, you may find that you need a bit more.

• Those with chronic health/wellness problems: Shoot for 2.5 mg up to 15mg if you fall in this category. The higher you go, the stronger the relief symptoms and euphoria you will feel.

• For the more seasoned consumers: Anywhere from 15 mg to 30 mg. This range is where you will experience strong euphoria and other positive, mindful effects. If you take this much as a beginner, you could face impaired coordination and perception.

• Consumers with lackluster GI cannabinoid absorption: 30 mg to 50 mg. This range works well for those who want the stronger effects but have a harder time absorbing the cannabinoids.

• The experienced consumers: 50 mg to 100 mg. For reference, one of the cacao bites contains 100 mg. Keep in mind that you may still want to start out with a lower dose before deeming you are well equipped to handle the full bite. 

As a final note here, don't forget that it can take around 20-30 minutes before you begin feeling the effects. The reason is because the edible has to pass through your digestive system before it can reach your bloodstream. So, make sure to wait the right amount of time to see where your body is at before popping in another cacao bite. In the end, read the labels, go slow regardless of how specialized you are, and really listen to your body (not your friends) to ensure you have a great, tasteful experience. PS, we also have a handy dandy dosage calculator you can reference as well. 

What Can I Use Edibles Chocolate for Exactly?

Despite contrary belief, eating edibles chocolate like the cacao bites, or consuming cannabis in any form for that matter, offers so much more than just obtaining a high that makes you laugh. Overall, edibles chocolate is a pretty amazing combo that is filled with a strong punch of antioxidants, treating things such as:

• Anxiety and depression;
• Insomnia;
• Restlessness;
• Dysmenorrhea in women;
• Migraines;
• Inflammation and muscle pain;
• Digestive pain/aids in digestion; and
• much more. 

In addition, eating chocolate edibles is a healthier alternative to smoking and gives you the ability to enjoy one of life's guilty pleasures. Plus, it is a whole lot more exciting and memorable to take your dose of cannabis when it tastes incredible with a bite of a chocolate edible. After all, who wouldn't want to have a double benefiting treat to look forward to each day?

Cannabis and Chocolate - The Perfect Chemical Pair  

As you can see (thanks to modern-day research), cannabis and chocolate go hand in hand. Not only do these magical products have complex similarities, but together as edibles weed chocolate truly takes meaningful indulgence to a whole new level. In summary, cannabis and chocolate have both played a vital role in society for thousands of years. Actually, one of the oldest mentions of cannabis being used for medical purposes dates back to 2300 BCE in the Chinese book Shu King. Even so, it wasn't until the last few decades scientists began unraveling the commonalities these two historical crops had. Now, I won't get back into the science of it all here, but understand that cannabis and chocolate are like two connective puzzle pieces that, when placed together, give us consumers a second to none luxury experience that I argue we all deserve to have.

All in all, edibles chocolate is a powerhouse asset to the edible's family and one that is only growing in popularity amongst chocolate lovers such as myself. However, never forget that not all cannabis strains or chocolate are created equal, meaning the brand you choose from also influences the experience you will have. With that being said, Pantry was designed on a foundation of authenticity, integrity, and above all, quality. Our top priority is you, and we demonstrate that by creating our vegan edible products using nothing but real ingredients and without any artificial flavorings, sweeteners, waxes, and other nonsensical junk. So, when/if you decide that this is something you want to try giving a shot, we here at Pantry will be ready to help make that happen.

Have a question, comment, or concern? If so, please don't hesitate to contact us, and we will be more than happy to guide you every step of the way. chef@pantrycannabis.com.