A cannabis package is covered in numbers, symbols and fine print, and most of it matters. The percentage on a jar of flower and the milligrams on a gummy mean different things, and a few other details on the label tell you whether a product is fresh and tested. This guide walks through what to look for, in plain English. It is for adults 21+. Layouts vary by brand and product type, so treat this as a checklist, not a template.
The Quick Answer
- Flower: THC is shown as a percentage. Check the date, too.
- Edibles and drinks: THC is shown in milligrams, per serving and per package.
- Vapes and concentrates: potency is usually a percentage of the oil or extract.
- Always look for: the product name, the batch or lot number, a date, the net weight and any lab information.
THC Percentage on Flower
On flower, THC is listed as a percentage of the weight. A jar labeled 24% THC means about 24% of the flower’s weight is THC. A few things to keep in mind:
- Higher is not always better. It shows potency, not quality, flavor or freshness.
- Numbers vary by batch. The same strain from two harvests can test differently.
- Percentages are not doses. You decide how much to use. A strong flower used in a smaller amount can equal a milder one used in a larger amount.
If you are shopping on value, see our guide to small buds and mixed buds.
Milligrams on Edibles and Drinks
Edibles show two numbers: milligrams per serving, and total milligrams in the package. Divide the total by the number of servings to get the dose per piece. In New Jersey, a single serving of an adult-use product is capped at 10 mg of active THC, and a single-serving beverage at 5 mg, according to the state’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission. Our dosing guide and drinks guide cover the math.
Vapes and Concentrates
Vape oils and concentrates are usually labeled with total THC as a percentage, often much higher than flower. That does not mean they are better, only that they are concentrated. Check the type of product too: distillate, live resin and others differ in how they are made. Our live resin vs distillate guide explains the difference, and the vapes guide covers cartridges and disposables.
THC vs Total THC
You may see “THC” and “total THC.” In raw flower, much of the potential THC is in an acid form called THCA, which converts to THC when heated. “Total THC” is a calculation that accounts for that. If you see both numbers on a flower label, total THC is usually the one that tells you the most about what you will get when you smoke or vape it.
CBD and Other Cannabinoids
Some labels list CBD, CBG, CBN and others. A product with equal THC and CBD is sometimes called a 1:1. If the ratio matters to you, check the number for each. See our CBD guide for the basics.
Terpenes
Terpenes are the aroma compounds in cannabis, and some labels or product pages list them. They tell you more about how a product smells and tastes than the strain name does. See our guide to terpenes for an overview.
Dates
Look for a harvest date, a package date or a best-by date. Fresher flower smells like the strain, while old flower smells like hay. Edibles and drinks usually carry a best-by date. Don’t use anything that tastes or smells off.
Batch or Lot Number
The batch or lot number ties a package to a specific batch and its test results. If you ever have a concern about a product, the batch number is what the store and the producer will ask for. Keep it, or keep the package, until you have used the product.
Lab Results
Licensed products in New Jersey are lab tested, and many labels or product pages provide access to the results, sometimes through a code or a link. Look at the potency numbers, and if listed, the results for contaminants. If you can’t find the lab information, ask the budtender.
Warnings and Symbols
Packaging includes required warnings, such as keeping it away from children and not driving after use, and a symbol marking it as a cannabis product. Read them. They are there for a reason, and they apply to you.
A Label Checklist
- What is the product, and what type is it?
- How much THC, as a percentage or in milligrams?
- For edibles, how many servings are in the package?
- What is the date: harvest, package or best-by?
- What is the net weight or count?
- Is there a batch number and lab information?
- Are there other cannabinoids or terpenes listed?
Common Mistakes
- Treating the percentage as the whole story. Freshness and smell matter too.
- Confusing total mg with mg per serving. A 100 mg package is not a 100 mg dose.
- Ignoring the date. Old flower is a poor value, even at a low price.
- Skipping the lab information. It is there so you can use it.
When in Doubt, Ask
If a label is unclear, ask the team. They can read it with you and point out what matters. Our beginner’s guide lists good questions.
Responsible Use
Start low, go slow and never drive after using cannabis. Store everything sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
FAQ
What does the THC percentage mean?
The share of the product’s weight that is THC. It shows potency, not quality.
What is the difference between THC and total THC?
Total THC includes the potential THC in THCA, which converts when heated.
How do I know an edible’s dose?
Divide the total milligrams by the number of servings.
Where do I find lab results?
On the label or product page, sometimes by code or link. Ask a budtender if you can’t find them.
Shop CREAM
Browse the menu, where each product page shows its details, or call (848) 500-9333. Adult-use only — 21+ with valid ID. Please consume responsibly.