Everything You Need to Know About Infused Prerolls

The cannabis and hemp markets are evolving rapidly. As consumer tolerance levels shift, the demand for higher potency products has led to the rise of the infused preroll. These products offer a significantly different experience compared to traditional flower options.

Understanding the mechanics of an infused preroll is essential for any consumer looking to upgrade their experience. This guide breaks down exactly what constitutes an infused preroll, how manufacturers produce them, and the specific differences between these enhanced products and standard joints.

What Is an Infused Preroll?

An infused preroll is a pre-rolled joint that contains both ground cannabis flower and a cannabis concentrate. While a standard preroll consists strictly of plant material (flower), the infused variation incorporates extracts such as wax, shatter, oil, or kief.

The primary purpose of adding concentrate is to increase the total cannabinoid content. Where standard flower might test between 15% and 25% potency, the addition of concentrates can push those numbers significantly higher, often exceeding 40% or 50%. This creates a product capable of delivering a much stronger psychoactive effect in a familiar format.

How Infused Prerolls Are Made

The manufacturing process for infused prerolls varies depending on the producer and the type of concentrate used. There are three primary methods for infusion:

Internal Infusion

This method involves mixing the concentrate directly with the ground flower before the joint is rolled. Manufacturers might blend kief or crumble into the plant material to ensure an even distribution. This technique is often preferred for ensuring a consistent burn, as the concentrate is protected inside the paper.

External Coating

In this process, the finished joint is painted, dipped, or sprayed with cannabis oil or distillate. Once the exterior is sticky, it is often rolled in kief (loose trichomes) to seal the oil and add another layer of potency. While visually striking, these can sometimes burn unevenly if the oil is not applied consistently.

Core Injection

Some manufacturers use specialized machinery to inject a rod of oil or distillate directly into the center of the pre-roll. This creates a "hash hole" or "donut" effect when smoked, where the center burns slowly alongside the flower.

Infused vs. Traditional: Key Differences

While the form factor looks the same, the user experience differs in three main areas:

1. Potency: This is the defining characteristic. Infused prerolls deliver a higher concentration of THCa or Delta-9 THC per puff. For example, the NOVA Hemp 1.3 Gram King Size Pre-Roll w/ Concentrate combines high-quality flower with concentrate to maximize the effect.
2. Burn Time: Concentrates generally burn slower than dry flower. Consequently, an infused preroll often lasts longer than a standard joint of the same size.
3. Flavor Profile: The addition of terpenes found in concentrates can alter the taste. Depending on the extract used, the flavor may be more robust or distinct than flower alone.

Safety and Consumption

Due to the high concentration of THCa, which converts to Delta-9 THC when heated, infused prerolls produce strong psychoactive effects. These include euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception.

Novice consumers should approach these products with caution. The jump in potency from a standard joint to an infused one is substantial. Responsible use is mandatory; do not operate heavy machinery or drive after consumption.