The Coronavirus has changed a lot of things about the way we live in this country. How we shop, what we buy, how close we stand to other people, and many other strange things. One of the of the many industries that have been declared essential is cannabis, but cannabis is changing too. Here’s our top 7 list of how the global pandemic is changing the way we consume cannabis. Enjoy, and wash your hands.
1. Delivery, Drive-Thrus and Curbside Service –
Dispensaries are now allowed in many states to provide curbside service for patients and customers who order online or on the phone. They’re also allowing more drive thrus in a lot of cities and delivery has never been more popular.
2. Browsing and Buying Online –
Hanging out and sniffing buds in person is probably over. Buyers will need to rely on product photos and descriptions and online store menus. Hopefully this will include easily using credit/debit cards soon and stop with all the dirty cash.
3. No More Sharing Joints, Blunts, Bongs, etc. –
This classic and treasured tradition is done. The amount of saliva swapped when sharing cannabis seems highly irresponsible in retrospect, but hey, we were high. Sharing will only happen with intimate significant others from now on.
4. Masked Budtenders –
Masks and gloves have been standard issue gear in cannabis processing operations since back in the day, but now they’re being worn by the front-of-house staff like receptionists and budtenders too. Branded masks with featured logos are coming next.
5. Events are Cancelled –
Cannabis events have been a big and important part of the industry since it started. Canna cups, awards shows, education panels and expos have attracted big audiences for years and that’s the problem. No more ganja gatherings in large groups.
6. Virtual Smoke Seshes –
Social media, webcams, wifi and smartphones have made keeping in contact with others during isolation a lot easier than in the old days. Smoking on camera while friends do the same sharing music and videos is all the rage while social distancing.
7. Edibles are Considered Safest –
A national spokesperson for the American Lung Association stated, “Smoking marijuana could also make a person’s COVID-19 symptoms worse compared to a non-smoker.” Even if you believe that, edibles or tinctures are still totally safe.
By Patrick Ian Moore
