Walk into any cannabis store in Ontario and one of the first things you’ll see on product labels is THC percentage. It’s often the number consumers focus on most — but does it really matter as much as people think?
At Pepe Cannabis Store in Burlington, we talk to enthusiasts every day about what makes cannabis “good.” While THC percentage plays a role, it’s not the whole story. Here’s what you should know.
What Does THC Percentage Mean?
THC percentage tells you how much tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the main psychoactive compound in cannabis — is present in a product.
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Flower: The number is expressed as a percentage by weight. For example, a strain testing at 25% THC means about a quarter of its weight comes from THC.
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Edibles and drinks: These are measured in milligrams (mg), with Health Canada capping edibles at 10mg THC per package.
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Vapes and concentrates: These can test much higher, often above 70–90% THC.
In simple terms: the higher the THC number, the more potent the product might feel. But potency isn’t the only factor in your experience.
Why THC Percentage Isn’t the Whole Picture
A product’s THC percentage doesn’t always translate into how “strong” it feels. Two strains with the same THC content can produce very different effects. That’s because cannabis quality is influenced by more than just one cannabinoid.
Other Key Quality Factors
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Terpenes: These aromatic compounds shape flavour, aroma, and the entourage effect. A strain rich in terpenes like limonene or myrcene can feel more powerful than a higher-THC strain with low terpene content.
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Cannabinoid balance: Minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and CBC all influence how THC interacts with your body.
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Lineage and genetics: The heritage of the strain determines how it grows, tastes, and performs.
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Appearance: Frosty trichomes, healthy structure, and vibrant colours reflect good cultivation.
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Burn quality: Smooth smoke and clean ash are signs of well-cured, properly flushed flower.
In other words, a 20% THC flower with strong terpene expression may deliver a fuller, more enjoyable high than a 30% flower with little aroma or flavour.
How Consumers Can Think Beyond THC
When choosing cannabis, don’t just chase numbers. Instead, consider:
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What experience do I want? Relaxing, energizing, creative, social, or sleep-focused?
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What flavour/aroma do I enjoy? Citrus, earthy, fruity, diesel, herbal?
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How do I plan to consume? Quick hits with a vape, longer sessions with flower, or all-day balance with edibles?
Our budtenders often recommend focusing on terpene profiles and strain families alongside THC percentage. That’s where the true character of cannabis comes through.
When THC Percentage Does Matter
That said, THC percentage isn’t meaningless. It can be helpful for:
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Dosing: Beginners may want to start with lower-THC products (10–18% flower, 2–5mg edibles).
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Concentrates: With potency often above 70%, THC content is a key safety factor.
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Comparing formats: A 10mg edible vs. a 25% flower vs. a 90% vape will all hit differently.
The number is one indicator — but it’s not the final word.
Pepe Cannabis Store: Quality Over Numbers
At Pepe Cannabis Store, we carefully curate cannabis based on overall quality, not just THC percentage. From terpene-rich live resin vapes to flavour-packed flower and perfectly balanced edibles, our selection is chosen to give you the best possible experience.
Visit us at 892 Brant Street, near Burlington GO Station, and let our knowledgeable team help you find products that fit your taste, lifestyle, and desired effects.
FAQ: THC Percentage
Is higher THC always better?
Not necessarily. High THC doesn’t guarantee stronger or more enjoyable effects — terpenes and quality matter just as much.
What’s a good THC percentage for beginners?
10–18% flower or edibles with 2–5mg THC are great starting points.
What’s the highest THC percentage available in Ontario?
Flower can reach over 30%, while concentrates like diamonds and distillate can hit 90% or higher.
Can a lower-THC strain still feel strong?
Yes — a terpene-rich 18% strain can feel more potent than a bland 28% strain.
