The North American legal cannabis market reportedly reached $12 billion in 2018, with the US market representing over $10 billion. By 2025, the global market is predicted to grow to a staggering $146.4 billion.

Cannabis processing facilities represent a vital part of this massive market, and as the sector grows, it is critical to have the right equipment in place. Using the best technology can make all the difference when it comes to taking advantage of new opportunities in this growing industry, standing out in an increasingly competitive market, and building a successful and profitable business.

Rosin technology is increasingly becoming a popular choice for cannabis producers. Allowing the extraction of cannabis concentrate without the use of solvents or chemicals, rosin technology is often described as “solventless” extraction. Instead, extraction is achieved through a combination of heat and pressure on a rosin press. Rosin technology represents several benefits for cannabis processing facilities, from ease of use and improved safety to cost efficiency.

1. Rosin Technology Has a Low Learning Curve

One of the key benefits of rosin extraction technology is its simplicity. There are now a number of professional rosin presses which perform the rosin extraction process, using a combination of heat and pressure to extract oil from cannabis materials. Manual presses are small and portable and are powered by a straight-forward crank handle or twist knob. For higher output, businesses could also consider pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric presses which are automated, and use these various forms of power for greater efficiency.

Even when using industrial-grade rosin extraction technology, the system remains straightforward, and learning to use a rosin press is a relatively simple process.

Staff can be quickly trained in using this technology and businesses can start processing soon after acquiring a rosin press.

2. Improved Efficiency and Safety

Solvent-based extracts can be dangerous to produce, with potentially deadly explosions. Rosin extraction, on the other hand, does not involve volatile materials, making it much safer. This not only means rosin extraction technology offers greater protection to workers from possible injury and even death, but there is also less red tape. Because of the risks of explosions, solvent-based extraction requires a volatile substance permit in many states, and procuring this can be lengthy and complicated. Processing facilities do not need this permit for rosin extraction, meaning fewer holdups to get started.

3. There Is Incredible Demand for Rosin Products

Recent years have seen a rapid rise in the popularity of rosin products. Consumers have welcomed solventless cannabis extracts, with commentators attributing this to the quality of the resin it produces, which also allows a more accurate dosage. This has been vital to the industry, as this accuracy has helped to inspire more confidence in the use of medical marijuana. This has led to the demand for rosin products skyrocketing. In Canada, for example, the sale of cannabis oil to health patients rose by 870% between 2016 and 2017. This trend has been reflected in the USA and elsewhere as more consumers seek out solventless extracts.

4. Rosin Technology is Extremely Versatile

There is an incredible range of products that can be made on a rosin press — depending on how it is produced; hash oil can vary from a “sappy” consistency to the stable and glass-like solventless shatter. It is not just the consistency of the oil that varies, but also the color and flavor profile. These differences are due to factors such as the degree of heat and pressure applied during extraction, as well as the materials used in production.

Playing with and exploring these options in the production process will allow businesses to produce unique products and truly carve their niche. Essentially, any type of cannabis concentrate can be produced through solventless extraction by using a rosin press, including crumble, shatter, budder, and more. Additionally, rosin can be added to other materials, for example, to create edible cannabis products and topical ointments.

5. It is Also Very Adaptable

As well as being extremely versatile in terms of the products it makes, rosin technology also offers a wide variety of choices when it comes to the materials it uses. Rosin can be made from virtually any type of cannabis, from flowers and sift to hash and kief. This opens up an exciting range of possibilities because the original material used in the extraction process dramatically influences the color, consistency, and flavor of the final product.

6. Rosin Technology = More Profit Potential

In addition to the benefits covered above, rosin extraction technology is much better for a business’s bottom line. Solvent-based extraction processes require highly specialized equipment costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Processing facilities can acquire a quality rosin press and associated supplies, on the other hand, for around $10,000.

Furthermore, once the initial investment has been made, running costs and overhead are also much lower. As the name suggests, solvent-based processing requires constant use of solvents, which are expensive ongoing costs, while rosin extraction relies only on heat and pressure, with minimal overhead. Combine these low costs with booming demand for solventless cannabis products and the result is a winning combination for any cannabis processing facility.