// Definition
A semi-synthetic chemical process that converts cannabidiol (CBD) into delta-9 THC or other psychoactive cannabinoids using acid catalysis. Widely used in the hemp-derived cannabinoid market because CBD is available at commodity prices (~$250/kg).
// From the Episode
Dr. Mark broke down the economics: CBD at $250/kilo plus less than 50 cents/gram conversion cost yields THC at roughly $75/kilo, versus the massive expense of licensed cultivation (greenhouse, staff, cameras, background checks, extraction, isolation). He called it 'a commodity play' for big beverage companies. Chimera noted that all Delta-8 and hemp-derived THC products are the result of 'chemistry or semi-synthesis' with 'unknown' safety profiles, contrasting natural cannabis's 'thousands of years of known safety profile.'