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USE THE CODE WITH EVERY ORDER!

Delta-9 THC: How it's made, and why it's real THC

Let's talk Delta-9..the stuff that brings the good vibes, mellow relaxation, and all-around chill. If you’ve been sipping on Island Chill’s tropical THC beverages, you might be wondering:

  • Where does Delta-9 THC come from?
  • How is it different from marijuana?
  • Is it still the same THC that delivers that classic euphoric buzz?

We’re here to clear the air and break it all down—NO FLUFF JUST FACTS—so you can sip with confidence, knowing exactly what’s in your can of Island Chill.

The Science Behind Delta-9 THC: What Is It, Really?

Cannabinoids are a group of substances found in the cannabis plant, and the main cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and cannabidiol (CBD). Besides THC and CBD, more than 100 other cannabinoids have been identified.

Delta-9 is a form of THC and is naturally occurring in the cannabis sativa plant. 

Delta-9 is one of the main THC compounds in the cannabis plant that produces psychoactive effects—binding to receptors in your brain to bring on that signature lift-off and familiar “high” euphoria. 

Hemp and cannabis (or marijuana) are both the same plant species. Whether it comes from cannabis or hemp, Delta-9 THC is chemically identical. The only difference is how much THC is naturally present in the plant and how it is extracted. 

 

Hemp-Derived Delta-9 vs. Marijuana

The key difference between hemp-derived Delta 9 THC and marijuana is how much THC is naturally present in the plant and how it is extracted. 

Legally, hemp is defined as a cannabis plant that contains 0.3 or less THC at its dry weight, while “marijuana” is a cannabis plant that contains more than 0.3 THC at its dry weight. 

Hemp-derived Delta-9 THC is extracted from hemp plants that contain less than 0.3 Delta-9 THC by dry weight, as mandated by the 2018 Farm Bill which makes it federally legal. 

In other words, when all of the "water" from a hemp plant is removed, the Delta-9 percentage is based on the remaining dry weight. If the number remains below .3, the plant is compliant.

To remain compliant, manufacturers use processes like isomerization or extraction from large amounts of hemp biomass to produce the legal limit of Delta-9 THC in consumable products. This allows it to be sold nationwide, even in states where marijuana remains illegal.

Marijuana, on the other hand, naturally contains higher concentrations of Delta-9 THC, often 15-30 THC or more. Because of this, marijuana-derived Delta-9 remains federally illegal, though individual states have legalized it for medical or recreational use. 

While both sources create the same psychoactive THC, the difference in legal status and sourcing makes hemp-derived Delta-9 a more widely accessible option.

 

Delta-9 THC vs. Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

Feature Marijuana Hemp-Derived Delta-9
THC Content Over 0.3 Delta-9 by dry weight Under 0.3 by dry weight
Legal Status Federally illegal (some states allow it) Federally legal (2018 Farm Bill)
Source Cannabis plants high in THC Hemp plants with low THC
Extraction Naturally high in Delta-9 Often extracted or converted from CBD
Effects The same psychoactive effects The same psychoactive effects

How Delta-9 THC Is Extracted

Not all Delta-9 THC is created equal—at least when it comes to how it’s sourced and extracted. Let's dive into the different methods used to bring this golden cannabinoid from the plant to your drink.

1. CO2 Extraction

CO2 extraction is one of the purest and most eco-friendly ways to pull Delta-9 THC from cannabis or hemp. It works by using pressurized carbon dioxide to separate cannabinoids from the plant without leaving behind any nasty chemicals. There are two versions: supercritical CO2, which uses high pressure and heat for a more thorough extraction, and subcritical CO2, which keeps temperatures lower to preserve delicate compounds like terpenes. This method is a favorite for top-tier THC products because it keeps everything clean and natural.

2. Ethanol Extraction

This method uses food-grade ethanol to wash over the plant material, pulling out THC and other cannabinoids in the process. Once the ethanol is evaporated, what’s left is a concentrated extract ready for use. Ethanol extraction is widely used because it’s fast, effective, and keeps a lot of the plant’s natural compounds intact. It’s a great choice when making full-spectrum THC products that retain all the extra goodies like terpenes and minor cannabinoids.

3. Hydrocarbon Extraction

For those who love super potent cannabis concentrates, hydrocarbon extraction is the go-to. This method uses solvents like butane or propane to strip cannabinoids from the plant, creating ultra-powerful products like wax, shatter, and live resin. While it can produce highly concentrated THC, it also requires careful purging to remove any leftover solvents. It’s mostly used for dabs and vape products rather than beverages or edibles.

4. CBD Conversion

Since hemp naturally has very little Delta-9 THC, some producers use a chemical process called isomerization to convert CBD into Delta-9 THC. This means that even though the THC originally came from hemp, it ends up being identical to the THC found in marijuana. This method allows companies to legally create hemp-derived THC products that deliver the same effects while staying compliant with federal laws.

5. Nanoemulsion

When THC is infused into a drink, it needs to mix smoothly and kick in fast—that’s where nanoemulsion technology comes in. This process breaks THC down into tiny droplets so that it blends perfectly with liquids instead of separating like oil in water. It also helps the THC absorb into your system faster, meaning the effects can be felt in as little as 10-20 minutes, rather than waiting an hour or more like with regular edibles. This method is what makes THC beverages like Island Chill hit just right.

 

Ride the Delta-9 Wave with Confidence

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At the end of the day, Delta-9 THC is Delta-9 THC—whether it comes from hemp or marijuana. Thanks to modern extraction techniques, we can now enjoy legal, high-quality, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC that delivers the same legendary chill.

So next time you’re cracking open an Island Chill THC beverage, you can sip easy knowing:

  • The Delta-9 THC inside is pure, clean, and lab-tested.
  • It’s extracted using safe, high-quality methods.
  • It’s federally legal and delivers real THC effects.

Now, grab your drink, kick back, and ride the wave. Sip. Relax. Repeat.