In today’s fast-paced cannabis shopping experience, online menus have become the first stop for many consumers before placing an order. Whether browsing through a dispensary’s website or using a marketplace app, learning how to quickly interpret cannabis menus can save both time and frustration. With more product options than ever—flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, tinctures, concentrates, and beyond—being able to scan and compare effectively is an essential skill.
Understand the Categories
The first step is knowing how menus are organized. Most dispensaries break products into major categories: flower, pre-rolls, concentrates, edibles, topicals, vapes, and tinctures. Recognizing these groupings helps narrow the search immediately. Within each, subcategories often highlight strain type (sativa, indica, hybrid), potency, or special features such as “high-CBD” or “fast-acting.”
Prioritize Strain Information
Cannabis menus nearly always include strain names or genetic lineage. Trusted resources like Leafly and AllBud highlight the importance of recognizing strain categories for predicting effects. For example, a consumer seeking energy might gravitate toward Jack Herer or Green Crack, while someone looking for relaxation might seek Granddaddy Purple or Northern Lights. Looking for familiar strains simplifies the decision-making process.
Compare THC, CBD, and Minor Cannabinoids
Potency is a major factor in product choice. Online menus typically display THC and CBD percentages. THC percentages above 20% are often marketed as “high potency,” while CBD-rich strains are sought for balance. Increasingly, menus also include minor cannabinoids like CBG or THCV. Shoppers benefit from paying attention to these metrics to match their desired experience with the right option.
Don’t Overlook Terpenes
More advanced menus list terpene profiles. Terpenes like limonene, myrcene, and pinene can heavily influence effects and flavor. For instance, myrcene is linked with relaxing properties, while limonene may provide an uplifting boost. Recognizing terpene breakdowns makes decision-making quicker for shoppers who already know what profiles work best for them.
Look at Price Per Gram or Per Unit
Pricing structures can be confusing, but breaking down cost per gram, milligram, or unit can speed up comparisons. For flower, calculate the cost per gram across eighths, quarters, or ounces. For edibles, compare cost per milligram of THC. This avoids misleading “deals” and ensures value is judged consistently.
Scan for Specials and Daily Deals
Many dispensary menus highlight daily specials or bulk discounts. Experienced shoppers often head straight to these sections. Quick-decision makers benefit from filtering by “on sale” or “featured items” when available, especially in competitive markets like Las Vegas or Miami.
Use Sorting and Filtering Tools
Most online menus include features to filter by strain type, potency, price, or brand. Sorting by “best sellers” or “highest rated” can point newcomers to trusted products quickly. Filtering removes distractions and helps focus only on the items that match one’s criteria.
Check Lab Testing and Product Details
Reputable dispensaries provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs) or lab results for potency and safety. Confirming testing details ensures product quality, helping shoppers make confident choices faster.