High-end cannabis products require top-tier purity, terpene preservation, and compliance with health regulations. CO2 supercritical extraction machines and hydrocarbon systems both play a role in premium cannabis extraction, but which method is superior?
CO2 extraction is widely used in medical cannabis, full-spectrum extracts, and high-end vape oils.
100% Solvent-Free: No residual solvents in the final product.
Full-Spectrum Extraction: Retains cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Meets Pharmaceutical Standards: Used in medical and high-end recreational cannabis markets.
Hydrocarbon extraction is popular for live resin, terp sauce, and shatter due to its ability to preserve volatile compounds.
Risk of Residual Solvents: Butane and propane require vacuum purging.
Higher Safety Concerns: Explosion risks make hydrocarbon facilities more hazardous.
More Post-Processing Needed: Hydrocarbon extracts often require dewaxing and filtration.
Factor | CO2 Supercritical Extraction | Hydrocarbon Extraction |
---|---|---|
End-Product Purity | 99%+ (solvent-free) | Requires solvent purging |
Medical-Grade Approval | Yes | Limited |
Flavor & Terpene Retention | Excellent | Very High |
Medical cannabis brands use CO2 supercritical extraction machines to ensure clean, pharmaceutical-grade extracts.
Live resin producers prefer hydrocarbons for terpene-rich extracts, but with additional regulatory hurdles.
For premium, solvent-free cannabis extracts, CO2 supercritical extraction machines are the gold standard in the industry.
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