Follow These Steps Before Buying Cannabis in Ontario 2021
Ever since Canada legalized cannabis in 2018, online and brick-and-mortar stores have been popping up around every corner. You can buy cannabis-infused edibles, lotions, oil, tinctures, and dry herbs just as easily as a pair of sneakers.
Cannabis Ontario is the best place to find reliable information on online and offline dispensaries and weed delivery services in the province. But before diving into its large directory, check out the following steps that will help you pick your go-to shop for high-quality cannabis in Ontario.
Learn About the Rules and Restrictions for Buying Cannabis in Ontario
Thanks to the Cannabis Act that legalized recreational cannabis in Canada, everyone of legal age can buy cannabis and related products nationwide. However, each province has specific laws and regulations that dispensaries and consumers must follow.
That’s why you should check the rules and restrictions regarding cannabis in Canadian provinces and territories.
In Ontario, the legal age for buying cannabis is 19, which is the case in nearly every province. Only Alberta and Quebec have different rules concerning the legal age, which is 19 and 21, respectfully.
You can purchase cannabis plants only at the Ontario Online Store, which is government-run, and at private licensed brick-and-mortar stores.
There’s also the public possession limit users should keep in mind. A single purchase can’t exceed 30g of dried cannabis or the equivalent.
Here’s what 30g of dried cannabis is equal to:
- 150g of fresh cannabis
- 2.1kg of e-liquid
- 450g of edible products
- 7.5g of concentrates
- 30 cannabis seeds
Choose the Right Cannabis Strain
If you’re new to the cannabis world, it’s vital that you learn more about different cannabis strains. You shouldn’t pick one randomly because it may not provide you with desired effects.
Did you know that there are over 700 different cannabis strains out there? Picking one can be just as overwhelming as it sounds, which is why you should learn more about them.
Do a bit of research to find the most popular strains, which can come from Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis subspecies.
Each comes with unique effects. For instance, some may help you relax, some may boost your energy, while others may be sedating and help you fall asleep. Some strains may make you feel nauseous or otherwise uncomfortable, which is why due diligence is key.
Dig into Online Reviews
Online reviews are your best friends for helping you find reputable vendors who sell high-quality cannabis.
They can provide you with valuable information on top dispensaries in Ontario and their product and service quality. You can also find out more about various strains and their effects.
Checking online reviews is especially important if you plan on buying cannabis online. Sure, the government regulates all cannabis dispensaries in Ontario and other provinces, but you never know. Some unreliable online stores may fall through the cracks, and you wouldn’t want to fall into their trap.
That said, be wary of reviews on dispensaries’ websites. Some may not be genuine, and playing a guessing game isn’t the best way to go about this.
Head to Trustpilot, Yelp, Google Reviews, and other review sites to find authentic reviews from people with verified purchases.
Check for Third-Party Lab Testing
Speaking of being scammed, you should take the time to check for third-party lab test results. If a vendor collaborates with an independent lab and discloses the test results publicly, you’ll know you can trust them.
Is lab testing important for dry herbs? Absolutely!
What if a supplier uses certain chemicals when growing cannabis to accelerate the growth and improve yield? Getting potentially harmful toxins into your system is undoubtedly the last thing you want to do.
With third-party lab testing, government officials, vendors, and consumers can ensure that all products come from proper cultivation methods and are safe for consumption.
Compare the Prices
Cannabis prices are usually good indicators of quality, but nothing’s written in stone. For example, some online dispensaries in Ontario offer favorable discounts year-round, while others offer only seasonal deals.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that dispensaries that set their prices too low may not offer high-quality cannabis. They may be turning to low-quality cultivation methods to cut their costs. If something seems too good to be true, trust that it probably is.
Conclusion
Buying cannabis in Ontario in 2021 is a straightforward process, whether you do it in-person or online. It does take a bit of research, but taking the time to do it is in your best interest, as it will ensure an excellent shopping experience.
The steps above are key to finding a reliable dispensary that sells top-notch cannabis. So, follow them to a T, and have your government-issued ID ready to prove you’re of legal age when placing your order.
