If you have ever looked at a cannabis label and wondered what TAC means, you are not alone. TAC stands for Total Active Cannabinoids. It represents the sum of all the measurable cannabinoids in a product. This includes THC, but also CBD, CBG, CBN, and many others that each play a role in how cannabis affects you.
It is important to understand that TAC is not the same as THC. THC is the most well-known cannabinoid, and it is responsible for the psychoactive “high” that many people associate with cannabis. TAC, on the other hand, shows the entire cannabinoid profile of the product. It captures everything that contributes to your overall experience, not just THC.
So why do dispensaries list both? Many shoppers still focus on THC content because it is the most familiar. However, TAC provides a fuller picture of what you are actually consuming.
Not always. A higher TAC number does not necessarily equal a better experience. The real magic of cannabis often comes from how cannabinoids and terpenes work together, which is known as the entourage effect. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its smell and flavor, and they also shape the effects you feel. For example, myrcene can promote relaxation, while limonene may lift your mood.
Think of TAC as one piece of the puzzle. It is a helpful number, but it should not be the only thing you look at. When choosing cannabis, also pay attention to the terpene profile and, most importantly, how the product makes you feel. Ask your budtender for guidance if you are unsure. A product with balanced cannabinoids and the right terpene mix may suit you better than one with simply the highest THC or TAC.
TAC (Total Active Cannabinoids) measures all the cannabinoids in a cannabis product, not just THC. It gives a fuller picture of what you are consuming, but a higher TAC does not always mean a better experience. The effects you feel often come from the interplay of cannabinoids and terpenes, known as the entourage effect. Use TAC as one clue, but also consider terpene profiles and your personal experience when making a choice.
