Reply To: Explain the difference between CBD crude, distillate, and isolate.

[Rafael]

Crude:
First stage of extraction, normally done via ethanol, BHO, or CO2. Produces a dark oil with many terpenes and flavonoids. Prices vary depending on method with ethanol being the cheapest around $1,500/L and CO2 closer to $3,000/L.

Distillate:
Filtration through distillation. Crude oil is refined to remove the flavonoids and terpenes, resulting in a gold/slightly clear oil. There are two types of distillate, oil with minor amounts of THC (1-4% range) and THC-free distillate. The slight THC version goes for roughly $3,500/L and THC-free goes for around $9k/L.

Isolate:
99%+ pure refined CBD. At room temperature and pressure, it looks like crystals or white powder, similar to flour. Costs roughly $5,000/kg.

Kilograms and liters are sometimes used interchangeably when referring to these extracts.

Assuming 10% CBD material and proper extraction methods, it takes roughly:
30 lbs to make 1 kg of crude
40 lbs to make 1 kg of distillate
60 lbs to make 1 kg of isolate