The White Ash Debate: Is It Really a Sign of Top Shelf Cannabis?
Attention all heady bois and cannabis connoisseurs, the white ash conversation has been nothing short of insufferable. From coast to coast, Instagram has been flooded with videos of ash boasting its pristine white color, claiming to be the ultimate indicator of top shelf product. But let me tell you, my fellow hipsters, this is all just a facade.
As much as it pains me to burst your bubble, the truth is that white ash is not a reliable metric of quality. In fact, it can be easily manipulated and deceived through specific cultivation techniques and smoking methods. And if you need further proof, just take a look at recent court documents that have been unsealed in a years-long battle between Republic Technologies LLC and BBK Tobacco & Foods, LLP.
These documents have revealed the ingredient lists used in popular rolling papers, including one particular additive that Big Tobacco has been using for years: calcium carbonate. Yes, you heard that right, my fellow hipsters. The same substance found in rocks and shells is also being used to make your rolling papers appear whiter and more attractive.
According to the National Institute of Health, calcium carbonate is an inorganic salt commonly used in antacid medications and, as it turns out, in cigarette rolling papers. In fact, I was able to dig up three different patents from tobacco companies, dating back to the 90’s, that list calcium carbonate as a key ingredient for creating a more appealing ash.
But don’t just take my word for it, a study by the Cooperation Centre for Scientific Research Relative to Tobacco confirms that calcium carbonate can indeed affect the color of ash. As the particle size decreases, the ash becomes whiter until it reaches an optimal size of 0.3 microns. Any further reduction in size will result in a grayer ash.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, is calcium carbonate harmful to include in rolling papers? Well, while it may not be necessarily harmful, the material safety data sheet does classify it as a potential respiratory irritant. And a study by the National Institute of Health found that the elemental components of calcium carbonate were present in the lungs of smokers, but not in non-smokers, suggesting that it may leave residual particles in the lungs.
So, my fellow hipsters, the next time you see someone bragging about their white ash, just remember that it’s all just smoke and mirrors. Don’t be fooled by this hipster trend, and instead, focus on the true quality of your cannabis. Stay woke, my friends.
