Live resin, a relatively new addition to the growing list of marijuana concentrates, has gained substantial traction due to its potency, flavor, and aromatic profile.
Live resin (photo credit: Newt Brothers).
Unlike traditional cannabis extracts, live resin is produced by flash-freezing freshly harvested plants and extracting cannabinoids and terpenes while they remain in their original, undried form. This preserves the full spectrum of compounds, resulting in a more flavorful and potent product. While the process is more complex than that of other concentrates, leading to higher prices compared to wax or shatter, many consumers believe the quality justifies the cost.
The origins of live resin trace back to around 2013 when cannabis concentrate pioneer William “Kind Bill” Fenger and Emotek Labs began experimenting with the process. They developed the technique specifically to enhance terpene retention, a key factor that distinguishes live resin from other concentrates. These terpenes contribute significantly to the taste and smell of the final product, offering consumers a richer experience that closely mimics the flavor of the raw plant material.
Live resin tends to have a more malleable, sauce-like consistency compared to many other concentrates, which is easier to handle and often preferred by users, although it sometimes comes in the form of small, hard crystals. Its higher terpene content also makes it stand out, especially for consumers who prioritize flavor and aroma in their cannabis experience. While shatter and wax can sometimes lose these nuanced profiles during processing, live resin’s method of production ensures that they remain intact.
Live resin has seen a surge in popularity in states where recreational marijuana is legal, with dispensaries across California, Colorado, and Oregon reporting increased sales in recent months. In California, for example, live resin products accounted for nearly 15% of all concentrate sales in 2023, according to data from the research firm BDSA. Its growing demand can be attributed to consumers seeking a more flavorful and potent alternative to traditional concentrates.
As live resin continues to grow in popularity, its reputation as a top-tier concentrate only strengthens, driven by its unique production process and superior flavor profile. It has become a go-to product for both seasoned cannabis users and newcomers looking to experience the plant in its most flavorful form.
