Creating Opportunities in the Cannabis Industry

Cannabis and CBD are growing in popularity as consumers become more accepting of these substances and as the FDA sorts out their regulatory future.

FREMONT, CA: Baked goods — namely brownies — has long been a preferred delivery method for consuming marijuana, a cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) that contains the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It also contains cannabidiol (CBD), compounds associated with relaxation, pain relief, improved sleep, positive mood, better memory, and stress response. Attitudes toward these substances are changing, with marijuana becoming legalized state by state. Today, 11 states have legalized the substance for recreational use and 33 for medicinal use. CBD, the non-psychoactive compound in hemp, is legal in some capacity in 46 states, and cannabis data and research firm Brightfield Group found CBD sales reached USD 5.3 billion in 2021, a 15 percent increase from 2020—the firm projects CBD sales to reach USD 26 billion by 2026.

Despite this growth and demand, there is still room for ingredient technology to grow to make it safe, consistent, and effective in baked goods.

Toolbox of CBD ingredients: Like all living plants, the C. sativa plant experiences ongoing chemical reactions that alter its composition until the plant is harvested and then physically processed to make it inert. In the early stages of growth of C. sativa, cannabigerol acid (CBGa) develops. As the plant grows, it is transformed into various cannabinoid compounds, with one of the first compounds being cannabidiolic acid (CBDa). Research shows that CBDa is up to 18 times more bioavailable than CBD because it is not in an oil form. The JuiceTiva ingredient contains no THC but does contain vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and cannabinoids, mainly in the form of CBDa.

Quality hemp starts with the seed: Compared to corn and soy, non-CBD hemp breeders are behind in breeding. There is much work to do on the agronomy side of the business, particularly in hemp ingredients that do not contain CBD. Hemp Genetics International helps farmers select the best variety for a specific environment, use, and location to eliminate the bitterness commonly associated with hemp, especially hemp-derived CBD ingredients. Almost a third of hemp seeds contain protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, so hemp is similar to soy and animal protein in that it is a complete protein. Hemp grain products are GRAS and exempt from food additive tolerance requirements. They are also gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-friendly.