Author: GVB Biopharma

For hundreds of years, people have understood pharmaceuticals as substances that improve health. Cannabinoid nutraceuticals offer the same benefits but come from natural sources like hemp instead of being lab-synthesized.

According to recent surveys, an increasing number of consumers are seeking health help from nutraceuticals, not pharmaceuticals. The nutraceutical industry is now worth tens of billions of dollars, and the popularity of nutraceuticals has synergized with an overall increase of interest in natural approaches to health.

What are nutraceuticals, exactly, and how are they changing the health industry? Find out everything you need to know about this class of natural health aids — including the details regarding their relationship with cannabinoids.

What are nutraceuticals?

Strictly speaking, a nutraceutical is a food that contains substances believed to improve your health. Nutraceuticals don’t have to come in the form of whole meals. It’s important to stipulate that nutraceuticals come from foods because pharmaceuticals usually don’t.

The term “nutraceutical” has generally evolved to encompass all naturally derived supplements believed to have health benefits. The term “bioceutical” sometimes refers to this broader group of substances.

How does the FDA define nutraceuticals?

The FDA generally uses the term “dietary supplement” instead of “nutriceutical.” While academic papers¹ insist that this federal regulatory agency acknowledges the existence of nutraceuticals, the FDA doesn’t have an official definition for them. Instead, nutraceuticals generally fall under the FDA’s definition of dietary supplements, which reads (in part): “[a] product (other than tobacco) in the form of a capsule, powder, softgel or gelcap intended to supplement the diet to enhance health.”

What is the difference between nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals?

Nutraceuticals come from entirely natural sources, while pharmaceuticals can be created using artificial methods. The term “nutraceutical” also generally infers that a substance has nutritional value, but this isn’t always the case.

Since industry leaders started referring to natural supplements as nutraceuticals, our understanding of human health has developed quite a bit. Experts now recognize that hundreds of natural substances may offer health benefits, even without any nutritional value.

What types of nutraceuticals are there?

Nutraceuticals share the trait of being derived from natural, often food-related sources, but their similarities end there. For example, the terpene limonene is directly extracted from citrus fruits commonly used as food. Others, however, come from yeast, mushrooms, or even rocks².

Industry analysis typically divides nutraceuticals into three categories: dietary supplements, functional foods, and functional beverages. Put another way, the three main economic categories of nutraceuticals are products you swallow, products you eat, and products you drink.

Are cannabinoids nutraceuticals?

Cannabinoids are natural compounds derived from Cannabis sativa, a plant whose seeds are often used as food. As a result, cannabinoids loosely fit the definition of nutraceuticals, but the exact regulatory category cannabinoids belong in is currently a subject of considerable debate.

For personal or scientific purposes, it’s perfectly fine to consider cannabinoids nutraceuticals. Be careful how you describe cannabinoid products currently offered for sale, though, since mischaracterizing hemp products could get you in trouble³.

Are nutraceuticals popular?

Nutraceuticals have massively shot into popularity over the last few years. Market research analysis conducted in 2017 found that the US nutraceutical industry had already swelled from $58 billion to $71 billion over the previous three years, and it predicted the industry would be worth over $105 billion in 2022. Analysts believe the nutraceutical industry will reach a value of $133.39 billion by 2025.

With the nutraceutical industry set to more than double in size in just over a decade, it’s safe to say that nutraceuticals are most definitely popular and are only getting more popular with time.

What is the nutraceutical industry worth?

In 2017, analysts estimated the nutraceutical industry to be worth just over $383 billion worldwide. At the time, market analytics firms suggested that it might be worth more than $561 billion by 2023.

Based on just-released research, it appears these predictions were right on the money. In April of 2022, Zion Market Research released a report estimating that the global nutraceutical industry is now worth $449.5 billion⁴ and is expected to grow to $745.5 billion by 2028.

How fast is the nutraceutical industry growing?

It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact rate of growth the nutraceutical industry is currently undergoing, but we know one thing for sure — it’s growing fast. Driven by a rapid increase in interest in alternative medical care in Western countries, analysts project that the global nutraceutical industry will double in value from 2017 to 2028, mirroring the recent growth rates observed in the US.

The nutraceutical market in 2025

By 2025, the American nutraceutical market will be twice the size it was in 2015, and statistics indicate the same will be true for the global market as well. That means brands now emerging into the nutraceutical industry have twice the opportunity as brands that launched a decade ago, but they’re also facing a modernized industry with lots of competition. The best way to prepare for the nutraceutical market of 2025 is to launch an excellent brand today.

Nutraceuticals by product type

For the purposes of industry analysis, nutraceuticals are often broken down into the three subcategories we mentioned earlier: dietary supplements, functional foods, and functional beverages. As we learn about the growth of the nutraceutical industry, it can be useful to examine the growth of each individual subcategory:

What are dietary supplements?

Dietary supplements are generally classified as nutraceuticals that you take in the form of a tablet, capsule, or another concentrated product, not in the form of food or beverages. This is the type of nutraceutical for which the FDA has provided the clearest regulations.

What are functional foods?

Functional foods are edible products that are boosted with nutraceutical substances. Some functional foods, such as turmeric root, naturally contain the substances that make them nutraceuticals — in the case of turmeric, the potent antioxidant compound curcumin. Companies add nutraceutical substances to functional foods, creating infused edible products.

What are functional beverages?

Functional beverages are drinks that contain nutraceutical substances. People commonly consider the popular fermented drink kombucha a nutraceutical because it contains probiotics. In other cases, manufacturers infuse conventional drinks like sparkling water with cannabinoids, adaptogens, or other substances commonly regarded as nutraceuticals.

What is the fastest-growing nutraceutical product type?

In 2014’s United States, functional beverages were worth $11.2 billion, functional foods were worth 17.6 billion, and dietary supplements were worth $29.8 billion. By 2017, these subcategories had swelled to $14.8bn, $21.7bn, and $35.2bn. In 2022, functional drinks, functional foods, and dietary supplements are projected to be worth $21.7bn, $30.8bn, and $52.5bn respectively.

While dietary supplements still make up the lion’s share of the nutraceutical industry, functional drinks are actually the fastest-growing subcategory. The functional nutraceutical drink market is projected to have nearly doubled in size during the eight years between 2014 and 2022, exceeding the growth rates of other subcategories substantially.

Key takeaways

There’s a mounting trend of consumers wanting to get their health supplements from drinks. The overall benefits of staying hydrated are more well-known than ever before, and consumers are both concerned about the dangers of soft drinks and energy drinks while remaining accustomed to their sweetness and energizing benefits.

As a result, drinks designed to make you feel energized using nutraceutical substances are becoming increasingly popular. However, anti-anxiety and anti-insomnia nutraceutical drinks are just as in-demand.

Even though functional drinks represent the fastest-growing nutraceutical subcategory, this category is still the smallest overall. There may be more competition and less growth potential in dietary supplements and functional foods, but that’s still where most of the capital is invested.

The growing importance of nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals aren’t going away. Even the verbiage surrounding this class of substances is archaic, so it’s understandable that regulatory agencies are taking a while to grapple with this facet of the natural health revolution. It’s a fact that hundreds of natural, edible substances have massive health benefits, though, leading to an enhanced focus on nutraceuticals among health-conscious consumers.

So far, projected growth rates for the nutraceutical industry have been right on track. They may, in fact, have been a bit pessimistic. Right now, the idea of a $130 billion-per-year US nutraceutical industry can sound far-fetched, but there’s a lot going for nutraceuticals.

Especially in these pandemic-impacted times, people are looking for new ways to improve their immunity or boost their overall health. The benefits of nutraceuticals speak for themselves, and they’ll start speaking even louder over the coming years.

Nutraceuticals FAQs

1. What are the basics of nutraceuticals?

In a nutshell, nutraceuticals are “natural pharmaceuticals” — they’re substances with near-pharmaceutical potency that are nonetheless found in nature. The name “nutraceutical,” however, etymologically comes from the words “nutritional” and “pharmaceutical,” which is to say that nutraceuticals are medicinal foods.

So, put all together, nutraceuticals are natural pharmaceuticals that you eat. Not all products described or labeled as “nutraceuticals,” however, have nutritional value or are even orally ingested. Therefore, despite the implications inherent to the name, nutraceutical can only truly be said to mean “natural healing substance.”

2. What are the most commonly used nutraceuticals?

Some of the nutraceuticals that average people use most commonly are vitamins, minerals, and plant oil extracts like terpenes and cannabinoids. While some definitions of the term do not include vitamins and minerals, nutraceuticals are widely understood as bridging a wide spectrum of different medicinally beneficial, orally ingested substances.

Vitamins and minerals have been used as supplements for decades. It’s only more recently, though, that plant extracts like essential oils, terpenes, and cannabinoids have also entered the nutraceutical market in full force. Shoppers now understand that many plant extracts have benefits on par with or even exceeding those of vitamins and minerals.

3. Did the FDA approve nutraceuticals?

The FDA has approved certain substances sometimes known as nutraceuticals for certain conditions. This government agency, however, has not approved nutraceuticals as a general category of substances.

The FDA does not even have an official definition of nutraceuticals. On the agency’s official website, the only mention of the word “nutraceutical” is in association with public postings of false claim filings against offending supplement producers.

4. Are nutraceuticals regulated in the US?

As a general category of substances, nutraceuticals are not regulated by any federal government agency in the United States. The same is the case in Europe, wherein the European Union likewise does not define nutraceuticals as a distinct product category for regulatory purposes.

Specific substances labeled as nutraceuticals, though, are very likely to be regulated in the United States. When determining the regulatory procedures for a certain nutraceutical substance, research its status individually.

Summary: Nutraceuticals and cannabinoids are converging

Directly calling cannabinoids “nutraceuticals” can be a regulatory risk, but it’s worth noting how seamlessly the hemp industry is being enfolded within the overall nutraceutical market. CBD is now a popular substance in all manner of dietary supplements, and we’re even starting to see the emergence of food and drink products infused with rarer cannabinoids like CBN and CBC.

Whether it’s nutraceuticals or cannabinoids, the infused food and drink market shouldn’t be overlooked. Today’s consumers don’t always want to take health supplements in pills: They want to eat or drink them the same way they would anything else. If there’s one prediction you should take away from this analysis, it’s that nutraceutical and cannabinoid-infused food and drinks will become even more popular than anyone currently expects over the coming years.

Sources

1. 1. Santini, A., Cammarata, S. M., Capone, G., Ianaro, A., Tenore, G. C., Pani, L., & Novellino, E. (2018). Nutraceuticals: opening the debate for a regulatory framework. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 84(4), 659–672. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcp.13496
2. 2. Carrasco-Gallardo, C., Guzmán, L., & Maccioni, R. B. (2012). Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity. International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2012, 1–4. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/674142
3. 3. Office of the Commissioner. (2022, May 6). Warning Letters and Test Results for Cannabidiol-Related Products. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/warning-letters-and-test-results-cannabidiol-related-products
4. 4, Nutraceuticals Market Size, Trends, Growth | Industry Analysis (2022–27). (2022). Mordor Intelligence. https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/global-nutraceuticals-market-industry
5. 5. Research, Z. M. (2022, April 20). Growth Scope of Nutraceuticals Market Size Worth USD 745.5 Billion By 2028 At 8.8% CAGR – Industry Trends & Forecast Report by Zion Market Research. PR Newswire. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/growth-scope-of-nutraceuticals-market-size-worth-usd-745-5-billion-by-2028-at-8-8-cagr—industry-trends–forecast-report-by-zion-market-research-301529003.html

Members of older generations may not be familiar with newer cannabinoid product types like edibles. More and more, however, average consumers are recognizing edibles as an effective and convenient way to take cannabinoids that don’t have to get you high.

Market researcher, Ipsos, recently released a report¹ covering the main reasons cannabinoid users choose edibles. Understanding the factors that are driving the results of this survey will make it easier to cater to a cannabinoid market increasingly drawn towards edibles.

What are edibles?

The term “edibles” once only referred to food items infused with the intoxicating cannabinoid THC. Today, this term has expanded to include any type of cannabinoid-infused product that you chew up or swallow.

What types of edibles are there?

Some of the most common types of cannabinoid edibles include:

1. Brownies

2. Cookies

3. Hard candies

It’s also possible to infuse cannabinoids into orally ingested products like:

1. Gummies

2. Jellies

3. Chocolate

4. Tablets

5. Tinctures

6. Capsules

What are the benefits of edibles?

Edibles make taking cannabinoids easy and delicious. Many consumers are concerned about the potential negative health effects of smoking, and they’re leery of other methods of inhaling cannabinoids like vapes. Topicals are great, but they only offer effects in targeted areas. Edibles are known for offering reliable effects and they taste good to boot.

Why do cannabinoid users use edibles?

According to the Ipsos report, there are five main reasons consumers choose edibles over other types of cannabinoid products. There are quite a few additional reasons as well that we’ll make sure to cover at the end:

#1. Convenience

Out of the cannabinoid consumers Ipsos surveyed, 38% cited the convenience of edibles as the reason they chose this type of product over other ways you can use cannabinoids. It’s true: Especially for novice users, taking an edible is much easier than juggling the complicated paraphernalia involved in smoking or vaping.

Depending on the situation, edibles can definitely be more convenient than inhaling cannabinoids, but they’re generally considered to be just as effective. It’s well-known that edibles take a while to kick in, but once they do, the effects edibles offer last longer and are often stronger than the effects of inhaling cannabinoids.

#2. They think it’s healthier

As the second-most-popular reason for using edibles as opposed to another kind of cannabinoid product, 25% of cannabinoid consumers said they thought edibles were a healthier way to use THC, CBD, or their cannabinoid of choice. 

Given that so many consumers feel edibles are healthier, cannabinoid producers would be wise to focus on natural ingredients and reduced sweeteners in their edible products. Doing so reinforces one of the main benefits users of edibles seems to value quite highly.

#3. Easy to share

Lots of people use cannabinoids socially. Smokeables can be hard to share and therefore can be less desirable amongst larger groups of people. Edibles, on the other hand, are easy to break into smaller pieces, and many cannabinoid edible products contain enough doses to share with friends. The Ipsos survey found that 19% of cannabinoid users preferred edibles for their shareability.

Edibles have evolved significantly in recent years, these days, cannabinoid users are moving towards gummies, tablets, and other bite-sized products.

#4. Easy to buy

When you choose edibles, it’s easy to know the exact potency of each serving of cannabinoids you ingest. This straightforward dosing reduces indecision consumers face when choosing other cannabinoid products. 19% of edible users to prefer taking their cannabinoids this way due to ease of acquisition.

Strains of flower change by each phenotype and small brands dominate the flower and vape space. Topicals and edibles, on the other hand, are often offered by bigger brands with products that are easy to find in many different cities and states.

#5. Accurate dosing

Coming in close behind the previous two reasons, 18% of the respondents to the Ipsos poll said they preferred edibles because they allow easier and more accurate dosing. 

The process of eating cannabinoids is inherently slower than inhaling them, allowing you to take the time necessary to get your dose just right. Good cannabinoid edibles come with clearly labeled dosing information.

Other reasons

The five reasons we just covered were the most commonly chosen among cannabinoid users who prefer edibles, but Ipsos provided a few additional selectable options. Fourteen percent of respondents, for instance, indicated that they only preferred edibles because a friend liked them, and 12% believed edibles offered faster onset of effects.

A further 6% indicated that they believed edibles helped better with the condition they were trying to treat while causing fewer side effects. Ipsos reports that another 11% chose reasons that weren’t provided in the poll.

Key takeaways

Across every cannabis market — recreational, medical, and the online hemp industry — cannabinoid users often prefer edibles first and foremost because they’re more convenient. Most hemp products you can buy online are either edible or topical anyway, and cannabinoid users indicate that they have an easier time finding the edibles they need while other product types can be more elusive.

Sharing is a big priority for many edible users, and cannabinoid consumers appreciate how easy it is to dose accurately with edibles. Given the fact that so many edible users are concerned about their health, using only safe, natural ingredients should be a major priority for edible manufacturers.

Which cannabinoids are available in edibles?

When you hear the word “edible,” the first thing you think of might be THC. That isn’t the cannabinoid at the center of our discussion, though. Edibles now include orally ingestible cannabinoid products containing CBD, CBG, CBN, and other non-intoxicating hemp substances that are now becoming popular worldwide.

CBD

Technically, the term “edible” includes any type of CBD product you ingest orally. In this sense, tinctures, capsules, gummies, and tablets all fall under the same overarching category, composing the largest segment of the online CBD industry.

CBD is no longer something you can just brush off. The CBD industry has expanded massively over recent years, and demand for edible CBD products has skyrocketed along with it.

CBG

Lots of edible hemp products you can buy online now contain CBG. Farmers are producing this cannabinoid at a record pace, and it’s now common to see CBG provided in the form of tinctures, gummies, capsules, and other orally ingested products.

Scientists are very interested in the potential anti-inflammatory properties of CBG — particularly as they might pertain to gut diseases². As a result, demand for CBG products that are processed through the gut is steadily rising.

CBN

CBN isn’t as popular as CBG yet, but that just means this cannabinoid has more room to grow within the online hemp market. Users are convinced that CBN helps with sleep, and scientists are keenly researching³ this cannabinoid’s purported ability to help with sleep conditions.

At present, CBN is usually offered in the form of orally ingested products. This cannabinoid is usually included with CBD since the two hemp substances are believed to interact cohesively.

Summary: Convenient edibles come in many cannabinoids

Since the earliest days of cannabis, edibles have been there for people who either they didn’t like to smoke, or they thought that eating edibles was simply the more convenient option.

Non-intoxicating cannabinoids are now readily available online and the convenience of edibles hasn’t changed. However, according to the latest consumer data, it doesn’t show any signs of going anywhere anytime soon.

Whether it’s CBD tinctures or CBG gummies, people love edibles for their convenience, potency, and easy dosing. They love sharing edibles with friends, and they certainly appreciate edibles that are designed with their health in mind.

Cannabis edible shopper habits FAQs

Learn more about how and why shoppers use edibles below:

1. What feeling do edibles give you?

In contrast to inhaled cannabinoid products, which offer intense effects with rapid onset, edibles provide long-lasting effects that can take a while to kick in. Depending on the dose, edibles might provide effects that are just as potent as smoking, less potent, or even more potent.

In the event that edibles feel more intense than other products, they’ll continue to feel that way for quite a while. For this reason alone, it’s important to exercise caution when choosing an ideal cannabinoid edible dose.

2. Is it healthy to take edibles?

The relative safety or healthiness of taking cannabinoid edibles depends on the ingredients present in the edible. Some cannabinoid edibles only contain high-quality, organic ingredients and contaminant-free hemp extract.

Others, though, could contain dangerous synthetic ingredients or pesticide-contaminated extracts. Assuming you choose the right product and ingredients, the overall dangers posed by cannabinoids appear to be low.

3. What do 1:1 edibles feel like?

If an edible product contains a 1:1 ratio of one cannabinoid to another cannabinoid, it should provide a balanced fusion of the effects of both compounds. In the case of a 1:1 CBD and CBG edible, for instance, users should expect to feel both relaxed and energized while the shared benefits of the cannabinoids intensify. 

Sources

1. 1. IPSOS Report. (2019). Ipsos. https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/publication/documents/2019-06/wtf_cannabis_us_webinar_jrs-v2-1.pdf
3. 2. Borrelli, F., Fasolino, I., Romano, B., Capasso, R., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., Orlando, P., Battista, G., Pagano, E., di Marzo, V., & Izzo, A. A. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical Pharmacology, 85(9), 1306–1316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2013.01.017
5. 3. Corroon, J. (2021). Cannabinol and Sleep: Separating Fact from Fiction. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0006

A decade ago, hemp farming in the United States remained restricted to a few government-sanctioned facilities sprinkled across the nation. Hemp was still considered largely synonymous with marijuana, and domestic cultivation was tightly controlled.

Then, the 2014 Farm Bill began the process of redefining hemp — a process that reached some degree of conclusion with the bill’s 2018 update. Following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, it became legal to grow hemp anywhere in the United States as long as state and local governments approved.

Almost overnight, hemp cultivation swelled to claim unprecedented tracts of farmland. As a “cash crop,” hemp became farmers’ flavor of the week, and the industry has evolved significantly due to this sudden glut of investment.

At the time the 2018 Farm Bill passed, it was still a relatively new thing to grow hemp containing high concentrations of CBD and low concentrations of THC. By 2020, however, farmers had already mastered CBD production and were starting to branch out into cultivars bearing alternative cannabinoids like CBG and CBN.

Which cannabinoids are American farmers growing, and what does the share of farmland each cannabinoid takes up mean for the future of the hemp industry? Find the answers in this analysis of a recent Hemp Industry Daily farmer survey.

Brief history of American hemp agriculture

Hemp is one of America’s oldest crops¹. It was a major focus of textile production in the New World until the cotton gin was invented, which made cotton cultivation considerably more profitable.

Americans took up hemp production again as they spread across the North American continent, this time just as much for its resins as its fibers. While cannabis tinctures and similar products were popular in drug stores up until the 1930s, campaigns emerged in that era to prohibit cannabis production for ultimately unjust reasons.

Opportunities created by the 2018 Farm Bill

Cannabis and hemp production remained largely at a standstill until the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. While some CBD companies had been in operation for a few years already by this point, this landmark piece of legislation opened up the floodgates of the American CBD industry by legitimizing hemp cultivation on US soil for the first time in nearly a century.

The Hemp boom and market stabilization

Immediately following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, a significant portion of American farmers switched their fields to hemp². Primarily cultivators of conventional crops, these farmers were willing to overlook their stigma against cannabis in light of the lucrative going rate of hemp-per-pound.

As simple economics dictates, this massive surge in hemp production led to market oversaturation that is still sorting itself out. Cultivating hemp can still be lucrative, but it isn’t the cash cow it used to be. Hemp farmers have had to get smarter, and one way they’ve done so is by expanding into cannabinoids other than CBD.

Leading cannabinoids cultivated in 2020

Unsurprisingly, CBD remained the primary cannabinoid cultivated among hemp farmers surveyed for a 2021 Hemp Industry Daily report³. A surprising number of American farmers, however, indicated that they had also started cultivating CBG and CBN. Let’s take a look at the details to get a better grasp of the current status of hemp agriculture in the United States:

1. CBD

How much hemp is grown for CBD?

According to Hemp Industry Daily’s 2021 survey, 80% of hemp farmers in the United States indicated that they had cultivated CBD-rich hemp crops during the 2020 growing season. As we’ll see, many of them also cultivated hemp containing other cannabinoids, but just as many American farmers seem to be sticking solely to CBD for the time being.

Is the share of hemp containing CBD up or down?

As recently as 2019, 96% of American hemp farmers grew CBD-rich cultivars of Cannabis sativa. The following year, however, only four out of five hemp cultivators reported growing CBD-rich hemp exclusively, indicating that 16% of farmers dropped CBD during that period and are now focused solely on other cannabinoids.

Hemp-derived CBD production projections

Even industry experts weren’t prepared for the hemp market’s rapid diversification into other cannabinoids. It seems we have the makings of a truly multi-cannabinoid hemp market in which demand for non-CBD hemp cannabinoids is nearing the current demand for CBD. There are other factors to consider, though.

2. CBG

How much hemp is grown for CBG?

In 2020, nearly half of American hemp farmers indicated that they had grown at least some CBG-rich plants. Forty-three percent of the respondents to Hemp Industry Daily’s survey reported producing cannabigerol (CBG), lending this minor cannabinoid a degree of unprecedented legitimacy and swelling the supply of CBG on the market.

Is the share of hemp containing CBG up or down?

Leaping from 19% to 43% in just a year, the number of American farmers growing CBG-rich hemp more than doubled between 2019 and 2020. It’s fair to say that 2020 marked the year CBG exploded onto the US hemp scene.

Hemp-derived CBG production projections

The massive uptick in domestic CBG production isn’t just due to increased demand for this CBD-alternative cannabinoid. The CBD market has been in a state of oversaturation for years, and some hemp farmers have jumped to CBG simply in the hopes that they’ll be able to sell their crops. As long as CBG production remains at least somewhat tethered to genuine organic demand, the share of hemp farmers producing CBG should continue to grow — albeit considerably more slowly.

3. CBN

How much hemp is grown for CBN?

While nowhere near as popular as CBD or CBG, hemp farmers are starting to pick up on the increased consumer interest in cannabidiol (CBN), a derivative of THC that is much more similar to CBD in terms of effects. According to the Hemp Industry Daily survey, 12% of American hemp farmers now cultivate Cannabis sativa specifically for its CBN content.

Is the share of hemp containing CBN up or down?

The number of US hemp farmers growing CBN increased slightly between 2019 and 2020 from 10% to 12%. While it’s safe to say CBN is certainly catching on, demand for this hemp cannabinoid has not yet erupted in the same way it has for CBD or CBG, although it is expected to in the near future.

Hemp-derived CBN production projections

Vying for space with two already well-established cannabinoids, it’s understandable why CBN hasn’t quite caught the public interest as significantly as of yet. An increasing number of hemp products, however, are starting to include a medley of different cannabinoids, taking the pressure off CBN-only products to provide the demand necessary to stimulate production of CBN-rich hemp.

Summary of key points

• CBD (80%) continues to take up the greatest share of American hemp production by far
• CBG (43%), however, is rapidly catching up as farmers seek to diversify
• CBN (12%) remains a niche cannabinoid that is gradually garnering interest

The future of American hemp production

American hemp production isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The overall trajectory of hemp and cannabis in the United States is on the up and up. While slower to take hold than many would like, cannabis reform is spreading across the nation state by state, putting ever-increasing pressure on the federal government to revise its stance on cannabis regulation.

The FDA has made some progress in its efforts to properly regulate CBD. Convening its scientific advisory board in June of 2022⁴ to discuss the regulation of CBD in food products, this federal agency signaled that efforts to fully legitimize the hemp economy remain underway.

Demand for CBD and other hemp cannabinoids is not expected to slow down anytime soon, all-but ensuring the steady, continued growth of the American hemp cultivation industry. Expect to see US hemp farmers diversify even further into alternative non-CBD cannabinoids.

Which other cannabinoids might come to the fore?

We’ve hardly scratched the surface of cultivating cannabinoids. There are variants of familiar cannabinoids like CBDv and CBGv that have hardly been explored, and other hemp cannabinoids — like cannabichromene (CBC) — still aren’t available in hemp flower in high concentrations even though they certainly will be someday.

By 2025, it wouldn’t be surprising to find a domestic hemp market that produces large quantities of 6-8 different cannabinoids every year. CBD was the foot in the door, but there are so many more cannabinoids to explore.

The bottom line: Which cannabinoids does today’s hemp contain?

Given the massive impact it’s had on so many lives, it can sometimes seem like CBD has been around forever. The reality, though, is that the domestic hemp market was only recently resurrected from its regulatory tomb, and it will need some time to fully regulate.

Even once hemp becomes a fully legitimate part of the American agricultural economy once again, the market will continue to evolve. While hemp is certainly useful for fiber, it’s mostly produced for cannabinoids now, and the number of different cannabinoids derivable from hemp will only continue to grow.

Right now, hemp farmers might be almost exclusively focused on CBD, CBG, and CBN. However, new cannabinoids can break into the market at any time, making it prudent for operators in the hemp economy to always be on the lookout for new opportunities.

Cannabinoid farming FAQs

Learn more about the types of cannabinoids the US hemp farming industry is focusing on:

1. What are the main cannabinoids in industrial hemp?

The three main cannabinoids currently produced in industrial hemp in the United States are cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabinol (CBN). The third, cannabinol, is a derivative of THC and is therefore produced in a slightly different process.

Both CBD and CBG, however, have been bred to be in high concentrations in certain strains of hemp. These cannabinoids are, in almost every case, entirely naturally derived since that is simply the most efficient and inexpensive way to proceed. There is now a considerable market for both CBD and CBG, paving the way for the future popularity of additional hemp cannabinoids.

2. What percentage of cannabinoids are in hemp?

The percentage of cannabinoids present in hemp ranges from around 5-30%. Some strains have been bred that push the 30% limit, but past that point, cannabis flower starts looking more like a crystal than a plant.

The lowest grade of industrial hemp available contains less than 5% cannabinoids, and this type of hemp is only useful for fiber or extraction purposes. The highest-grade and highest-potency hemp flower, on the other hand, is suitable for smoking and is often sold as an artisanal product.

3. Is 30% cannabinoids a lot?

Yes, if hemp or cannabis flower contains 30% cannabinoids, that is definitely a lot. Regardless of the strain cultivated, cannabinoid percentages nearing 30% are simply not achievable without the best indoor cultivation equipment that money can buy.

Cannabis is a simultaneously simple and fickle plant that must be pampered to reach maximum cannabinoid expression. Resultantly, outdoor-grown buds simply cannot reach 30% potency.

4. Which strain has the highest terpenes?

There is no one particular cannabis or hemp strain that will always have higher terpene expression than others. The level of terpene expression achieved in a cannabis strain is mainly dependent, rather, on how it is grown. Terpene expressivity, of course, varies between phenotypes, but not to such a great degree that any specific strain can be singled out as being inherently terpene-rich.

Sources

1. 1. History Of Hemp In The US | Hemp History. (2021, March 25). Ministry of Hemp. https://ministryofhemp.com/hemp/history/
2. 2. The Hemp Boom is Over. What Now? (2021, July 9). The Pew Charitable Trusts. https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2021/07/09/the-hemp-boom-is-over-what-now
3. 3. Staff, H. I. D. (2021, March 3). Despite buzz around delta-8 THC, cannabinoid cultivation dominated by CBD, CBG. Hemp Industry Daily. https://hempindustrydaily.com/chart-despite-buzz-around-delta-8-thc-cannabinoid-cultivation-dominated-by-cbd-cbg/
4. 4. Nichols, K. (2022, June 14). FDA takes another look at CBD, but insiders are skeptical much will change. MJBizDaily. https://mjbizdaily.com/fda-takes-another-look-at-cbd-but-insiders-are-skeptical-much-will-change/

The American CBD industry is in full swing. With more than 14% of Americans using CBD products¹ and the hemp market swelling to $24.5 billion per year², hemp has become a force to be reckoned with.

A disproportionate number of CBD sales occur online, however, with far fewer Americans buying this cannabinoid from brick-and-mortar retailers. What’s the basis behind this trend, and what does it mean for CBD brands that want to succeed in today’s rapidly shifting environment?

In this guide, we’ll use the latest data to explain why US consumers choose to buy CBD online and lay out a path to success for operators in the American hemp space. Discover the factors driving online hemp sales and what they mean for the future of the CBD market.

Current status of the US CBD market

American CBD remains largely in the same strange place that the 2018 Farm Bill left it. This landmark piece of hemp legislation firmly separated CBD from THC and put the cannabinoid in the FDA’s court. Citing long-standing industry precedent and a continuing lack of clinical safety information, though, the FDA has been reluctant to fully legitimize CBD sales in the United States.

In 2017, the FDA approved Epidiolex as a prescription drug. Once the FDA has approved a substance as a prescription drug, it doesn’t generally approve the same substance for over-the-counter use. While Epidiolex generates a genuine conflict for the FDA, it’s also possible the federal agency is dragging its heels in anticipation of the improved clarity that would accompany successful federal cannabis reform legislation.

What do US consumers use CBD for?

American consumers don’t seem to be particularly perturbed by the FDA’s lack of comprehensive CBD guidance. They continue to use this non-intoxicating cannabinoid in record numbers, and they’re increasingly turning to CBD for help with issues aside from pain and inflammation.

A 2019 Quartz survey⁴, for instance, found that 55% of Americans who had used CBD had tried it for general relaxation, and a further 50% had used it for stress or anxiety. Forty-five percent of US CBD consumers had used the cannabinoid for sleep with only 39% relying on it for pain.

This information clearly indicates that CBD is reaching a much wider audience than before. Average Americans — not just those suffering from pain — are discovering the many ways CBD can benefit their lives, driving sales of this cannabinoid ever higher.

Where do American consumers buy CBD?

A 2021 Nielsen survey⁵ shed light on American CBD buying behavior by showing where US consumers are now purchasing their hemp products. Unsurprisingly, the vast majority of American hemp users buy CBD online, an existing trend that the pandemic significantly exacerbated.

Why do so many Americans buy CBD on the internet, and where else do they buy this cannabinoid? Let’s take a look:

1. Online

How many Americans buy CBD online?

According to the Nielsen survey, 66% of Americans now buy CBD online. The internet has always been the primary marketplace for hemp products, but 2/3 of hemp sales being conducted online is an unprecedented portion.

Why do Americans buy CBD online?

As with all other types of products, buying CBD online is easy and convenient. Some states still have laws restricting sales of certain kinds of CBD products, often making the type of CBD consumers want only available online.

During the pandemic, many of the smaller stores that traditionally carried CBD shut down or vastly curtailed their business activities. As a result, many consumers who had previously preferred to buy CBD in person were forced to start purchasing products online. Now, many of them haven’t elected to go back.

The Future of US Online CBD sales

Expect online CBD sales to take up an ever-greater share of the market over the coming years. Buying products online only gets easier as time goes by, and as more consumers enter the hemp market, their overall predisposition towards Ecommerce will skew CBD sales even further toward online channels. Barring some massive disruption of domestic shipping services, CBD sales are highly likely to continue to gravitate toward online ecosystems.

2. Specialty stores

How many Americans buy CBD at specialty stores?

Since the early days of CBD, Americans have relied on specialty stores like natural food stores and vape shops to supply their favorite hemp products. As of 2021, 29-31% of them still did, with shares of brick-and-mortar CBD sales recovering somewhat from 2020’s lows.

Why do Americans buy CBD at specialty stores?

With around a third of American CBD consumers still buying CBD from their favorite local mom-and-pop shops, it’s clear there’s something about the sales model that’s working. Familiarity with store staff and the benefits of one-on-one product selection assistance outweigh the convenience of buying CBD products online for some consumers, and others simply appreciate the convenience of being able to buy CBD during their normal trips to the store.

The future of US specialty store CBD sales

No matter how successful Ecommerce may become, the local economy isn’t simply going to disappear. Natural food stores, vape stores, smoke shops, boutiques, and other CBD-carrying retailers will continue to exist, and their owners will continue to capitalize on CBD’s enduring popularity. The share of US consumers who buy their CBD in-person, however, is almost sure to drop at least somewhat over the coming years.

3. Chain stores

How many Americans buy CBD at chain stores?

Over the last five years or so, major grocery store chains (most notably Kroger⁶) have given the green light to regional buyers who want to onboard CBD products. Despite corporate America’s attempts to mainstream CBD, however, only 3-5% of CBD consumers choose to buy their hemp products from major consumer packaged goods (CPG) stores.

Why do Americans buy CBD at chain stores?

No matter how much you might love CBD, this cannabinoid isn’t what you’re expecting to see on the shelves of your local conventional grocery store. The slow growth of the share of CBD sales occurring in CPG retail environments is due somewhat to the overall newness of the phenomenon but also to a lack of education among both store employees and customers regarding the benefits of CBD.

American CBD consumers often go to specialty stores in search of particular hemp products, and mainstream CPG retailers — which generally only stock a few CBD SKUs — can’t possibly carry every brand consumers seek. Often turned away by the lack of product variety carried in major chains, this hemp sales channel has yet to truly take flight.

Key takeaways

Let’s summarize all this information in a few bullet points:

• 66% of Americans buy CBD online, 29-31% buy it from specialty stores, and 3-5% buy it from major CPG retailers
• Online CBD sales strengthened during the pandemic and show no signs of slowing down
• Many American CBD users also still buy from their local mom-and-pop shops
• Far fewer have migrated to buying CBD from CPG retailers
• Going forward, online sales are likely to increase at a rapid pace
• CPG CBD sales will also probably grow, but more slowly
• Specialty stores may slowly lose their share of the CBD market due to competition from CPG retailers

How to leverage American CBD buying habits

The obvious answer here is to sell CBD online. Two-thirds of American hemp consumers buy their CBD on the internet, giving you access to the largest share of the US market.

The bar-to-entry for online CBD sales can be high, however. With so many brands now jostling for space, CBD operators have to dance between product differentiation and pricing adjustments to stay distinct and attractive to consumers.

If you want to reach the largest segment of American CBD consumers and thereby set yourself with the most opportunities for profit and success, focusing largely on internet sales is the best approach. Leave yourself open to selling CBD in specialty stores, however, and always be on the lookout for opportunities to enter the nation’s slow-growing consumer packaged goods CBD market.

US retail CBD consumption FAQs

Learn more about CBD consumption in retail stores below:

1. Which major retailers sell CBD?

Some of the major retail chains that now sell CBD products include Walgreens, CVS, Kroger, and Wegmans. Not all retail chains have gotten on the bandwagon, however, with big box stores like Target, Walmart, and Costco notably staying clear.

Even if your ideal store doesn’t carry CBD, chances are that a nearby retailer does. In any case, the type of quality you can get with online CBD usually far outstrips anything you’ll find in a retail store.

2. Is there CBD at Walmart?

No, Walmart does not sell CBD products. There are a few listings on walmart.com that, at first glance, appear to be for products containing CBD.

It only takes a cursory look, however, to recognize that these products do not actually contain any CBD at all. If they did, they would immediately be flagged for removal by Walmart.

3. Are CBD products sold at CVS?

Yes, CVS is one of a number of drug store chains that have adopted the CBD revolution wholeheartedly. You can buy CBD products made by major, recognized brands at almost every CVS location.

Alongside CBD products made by brands that originally started on the internet are anonymous, generic products made by the drug store brand’s existing distributors. If shopping for CBD products at CVS, always go with brands that are also sold online and have a considerable national following.

4. Does Walgreens sell CBD?

Yes, CBD products are widely available at most Walgreens stores nationwide. Almost all the CBD products sold at Walgreens, however, are produced by the drug store company’s in-house manufacturers.

As another option, visit a natural food store for better CBD product quality. Whole Foods is an example of a national food co-op chain that sells CBD, and many local co-ops do as well.

Summary: US CBD sales channels are evolving

The pandemic changed many things — not the least consumer buying behavior. According to the United States Census Bureau⁷, online sales shot up 43% in 2020, exploding from $571.2 billion in 2019 to $815.4 billion in a single year.

And, like many pandemic-inspired changes, this unprecedented shift toward online sales doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. Consumers are already buying more products online, so it simply makes sense to buy CBD online now too.

There will never come a point, however, when 100% of CBD sales occur online. As you pivot toward today’s internet-driven CBD economy, never forget to explore potentially lucrative opportunities for diversification offered by brick-and-mortar retail environments.

Sources

1. 1. Brenan, B. M. (2021, November 20). 14% of Americans Say They Use CBD Products. Gallup.Com. https://news.gallup.com/poll/263147/americans-say-cbd-products.aspx
2. 2. Gelsi, S. (2022, May 4). Legal cannabis sales exceed Starbucks N. America sales in 2021: Report. MarketWatch. https://www.marketwatch.com/story/legal-cannabis-sales-exceed-starbucks-n-america-sales-in-2021-report-2022-05-04
3. 3. Drotleff, L. (2022, June 2). Federal cannabis legalization may affect FDA’s approach to CBD regulation, experts say. Hemp Industry Daily. https://hempindustrydaily.com/federal-cannabis-legalization-may-affect-fdas-approach-to-cbd-regulation-experts-say/
4. 4. Kopf, D., & Avins, J. (2020, February 23). Survey shows Americans use CBD to treat anxiety and stress. Quartz. https://qz.com/1590765/survey-shows-americans-use-cbd-to-treat-anxiety-and-stress/
5. 5. Staff, H. I. D. (2021, March 15). Chart: Top CBD sales channels in 2020. Hemp Industry Daily. https://hempindustrydaily.com/chart-top-cbd-sales-channels/
6. 6. LaVito, A., & Hirsch, L. (2019, June 12). Kroger to sell CBD products in nearly 1,000 stores. CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2019/06/11/kroger-to-sell-cbd-products-in-nearly-1000-stores.html
7. 7. U.S. Census Bureau. (2022, April 26). Annual Retail Trade Survey Shows Impact of Online Shopping on Retail Sales During COVID-19 Pandemic. Census.Gov. https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2022/04/ecommerce-sales-surged-during-pandemic.html

With the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) recently releasing a finalized list of CBD products currently in the approval process¹, the people of Great Britain are well on their way toward access to safe, government-regulated, CBD products. Brits have been enjoying CBD for quite a few years now, however, and their usage habits can tell us a lot about how to successfully market CBD and other hemp cannabinoids to British audiences.

How many citizens of Great Britain use CBD, and for what reasons? Find the answers in this guide, backed by results from a recent YouGov survey conducted in Great Britain.

What is CBD used for?

Around the world, CBD is used for relaxation, anxiety, sleep, epilepsy, and plenty of other purposes. People often rely on CBD for help with inflammation, which shows itself in a myriad of different medical conditions. 

What are the benefits of CBD?

Most people who use CBD report that this cannabinoid provides them with a light feeling of relaxation that may help them manage pain and anxiety more effectively. Research into the usefulness of CBD for various conditions is ongoing, and both scientists and consumers appreciate this cannabinoid’s negligible side effect profile².

In the UK, CBD is easy to buy online or in various brick-and-mortar shops. Since it doesn’t get you high, CBD won’t interfere with daily activities, and it doesn’t appear to have any addictive potential. In short, CBD seems to help, and it doesn’t appear to hurt.

Is CBD legal in the UK?

In the UK, CBD products are generally not considered to be the illegal drug marijuana as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC³ and have gone through the UK government’s stringent hemp production or import procedures. The FSA has recently taken measures to bring a list of CBD products further into the mainstream, indicating the UK’s eventual intent to fully legitimize the production and sale of CBD products.

How many people use CBD in Great Britain?

In 2019, the British market research company YouGov conducted a survey to determine how many people use CBD in Great Britain and what they use it for. At this time, only 9% of Brits polled recalled using CBD while 6% weren’t sure if they had or had not. The overwhelming majority (85%) had not used CBD yet, but some indicated they might use it in the future.

How many Brits would consider trying CBD?

Out of the YouGov survey participants who had not yet used CBD, 28% indicated that they were open to trying the cannabinoid. 53% of Brits surveyed would try hemp either immediately or with a little bit of time. 47% of those surveyed indicated that they had no interest in trying it while 25% weren’t sure. 

What types of CBD products do Brits use?

Unsurprisingly, 58% of Brits who had used CBD had tried tinctures, the most popular type of CBD product worldwide. Twenty-one percent had tried CBD vapes while 11% had used the cannabinoid topically. A further 10% had tried tablets or capsules with both CBD edibles and drinks also sitting at 10%. British men (28%) were twice as likely to have tried CBD vapes than women (14%), and CBD oils were most popular among the oldest Brits (74%) while vapes were the most popular among the youngest (51%).

Why do people in Great Britain use CBD?

Brits primarily use CBD for medicinal reasons. Out of the 1,650 respondents polled, 61% indicated that they had used CBD as an aid for some type of disease or condition while only 37% said they hadn’t used the cannabinoid for medical purposes. A further 1% didn’t know exactly why they had used CBD. Somewhat surprisingly, use of CBD for medical reasons was lowest among the oldest respondents (54%) and highest among the youngest (68%).

For which medical reasons do Brits use CBD?

It’s established that more residents of Great Britain use CBD for medical reasons than those who don’t, but what specific medicinal purposes do they use CBD for? This is the most important question as we unravel why Brits use CBD — let’s explore each major medical application for which British citizens have started relying on hemp:

1. Do British people use CBD for pain?

Yes, residents of Great Britain primarily use CBD for pain when they’re using this cannabinoid for medical purposes. Using CBD for pain is slightly more common among British women (75%) than it is for British men (68%), but at 71% overall, far more people in Britain use CBD for pain than use this cannabinoid for anything else. 

2. Do British people use CBD for anxiety and depression?

The next most popular medical purposes for CBD in Britain are anxiety and depression. Thirty-eight percent of Brits who turned to CBD for medical purposes sought help for these conditions with use of CBD for depression much more common among younger (50%) than older (15%) British citizens.

3. Do British people use CBD for sleep?

Using CBD for sleep is a practice shared by Brits of all ages (24%), but it’s most common in citizens of Great Britain between 25 and 49 years of age (30%). Both among younger (18-24) and older (50-64) adults, using CBD for sleep stands steady at 19%.

4. Do British people use CBD for arthritis?

It seems using CBD for arthritis hasn’t quite caught on yet in the UK — only 10% of Brits who use CBD rely on it for this painful inflammatory condition. The oldest British people (65+: 8%) remain unaware of the potential benefits of CBD for arthritis as the youngest (18-24 & 25-49: 7%). However, adults (50-64) are both most at risk of arthritis and most informed about hemp use it considerably more for this condition, 22% say they use CBD for arthritis.

5. Do British people use CBD for other reasons?

None of the Brits surveyed reported using CBD for chemotherapy-related purposes. Eight percent, though, did indicate that they had used CBD for a purpose other than those listed above. Using CBD for unconventional purposes was most common among the oldest respondents (17%), and it was least common among the youngest (6%).

How to market CBD to a British audience

Just learning why British people use CBD isn’t enough to know how to effectively market CBD products in Great Britain. While this country is historically pro-hemp, there are certain prevailing factors that make it distinct from the North American hemp markets. Let’s explore:

Understand market conditions

The UK allows CBD to be sold, but it doesn’t do so lightly. If you’re based in the UK, you have to grow and process your hemp exactly how the UK government dictates. If you want to import CBD from another country, it has to go through an extensive customs process. That’s why it’s usually better to work with an established producer that has already opened up access to the UK market.

Assess regional interest

It should come as no surprise that Brits living in London are more likely than average to have tried CBD (10%) or be willing to try it (30%). Citizens in more rural areas aren’t as willing to give hemp a shot yet, but don’t count Scotsmen out of the running. While only 7% of Scottish respondents had used CBD in 2019, 30% were willing to try it — the same as Londoners. Focus your efforts on Brits and Scots living in major cities.

Leverage consumer sentiment

People in Great Britain like CBD, but they still aren’t quite sure about it. While we speak the same language, people in the UK have different traditions and sentiments than their American counterparts. City denizens are more than happy to try new things, but the same can’t be said for residents of the English countryside. Using CBD for pain is very popular in the UK, though, creating a potential opening for reaching older audiences.

Prepare for the future

Traditionally, the UK has looked to the US when determining its hemp and cannabis policy. With recent efforts by the FSA to expand its catalog of approved CBD products and tamp down on the nation’s gray market, however, it’s becoming clear that Britain is no longer waiting for America to clarify matters regarding CBD.

Expect the British government to continue mainstreaming CBD over the next few years. Brands will still need to operate within the UK’s strict regulatory framework, but with CBD becoming an accepted substance in Great Britain, expect hemp sales to soar.

Why Brits use CBD: The bottom line

In some ways, the current British CBD market looks a lot like the American CBD market of five years ago. There are two key similarities — consumers in both markets are largely ignorant regarding the full benefits of CBD, and they almost always use CBD for pain.

In Great Britain, CBD hasn’t yet caught on as the general relaxation aid it has become in the United States. With record numbers of Brits showing openness toward CBD, however, the time has come to expand awareness of the width and depth of this non-intoxicating cannabinoid’s potential.

The UK is unlikely to make any major moves regarding overall cannabis regulation before the US, but the recent massive expansion of the FSA’s list of CBD products under approval indicates that the British government might be getting tired of waiting. Start offering your CBD products in the UK now to secure your spot within the fastest-growing hemp market on the Eastern side of the Atlantic.

*Please note that CBD is currently not an FDA-approved over-the-counter treatment for any medical conditions.*

Great Britain CBD FAQs

1. What are the rules for CBD in the UK?

For consumers, CBD rules in the UK are very similar to laws in other countries where CBD is legal. Producers, however, must abide by the UK’s strict import laws, and they must also ensure that their products contain less than 0.2% THC — not 0.3%. Follow these simple rules, though, and selling CBD in the UK shouldn’t pose many inherent challenges.

2. Is CBD a controlled substance in the UK?

No, CBD itself is not a controlled substance in the UK, but CBD may be considered a controlled substance when it is present in cannabis flower or other products containing more than 0.2% THC. Like the USA, the UK maintains the position that THC is an illegal drug. Contact the UK Home Office with any further inquiries.

3. Is smoking CBD illegal in the UK?

The legal status of smoking CBD flower is not clear in the UK, making it important to exercise an overabundance of caution. We would directly recommend that no one smoke CBD flower in the UK until the government has issued further clarification.

4. How many people take CBD in the UK?

According to the UK-based Centre for Medicinal Cannabis, over 6 million residents of the United Kingdom have now used CBD, marking an unprecedented level of popularity. CBD is only expected to get more popular in the UK and elsewhere around the world over the coming decades, making now the ideal time to start spreading access to CBD throughout the United Kingdom’s diverse population.

Sources

1. 1. CBD products linked to novel food applications. (2022). FSA. https://data.food.gov.uk/cbd-products/products-list
2. 2. Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139–154. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0034
3. 3. Consumer cannabidiol (CBD) products report (accessible version). (2021, December 17). GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/acmd-advice-on-consumer-cannabidiol-cbd-products/consumer-cannabidiol-cbd-products-report-accessible-version
4. 4. Office of the Commissioner. (2020, July 31). FDA Approves New Indication for Drug Containing an Active Ingredient Derived from Cannabis to Treat Seizures in Rare Genetic Disease. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-indication-drug-containing-active-ingredient-derived-cannabis-treat-seizures-rare

It might be off to a slightly slower start than its US equivalent, but the UK CBD industry is growing rapidly due to massive consumer interest. CBD appears to resonate better with certain age groups than it does with others, therefore hemp brands should identify clear messaging objectives to reach UK audiences. 

Comprising more than 67 million people, the UK hemp market is massive and still relatively untapped. In this guide, learn everything you need to know about demographic trends within the UK CBD industry, powered by results from a recent YouGov survey.

CBD in the UK: an overview

In the UK, CBD products are not considered marijuana as long as they contain less than 0.2% delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC)¹. The UK government is relatively strict, however, regarding which types of CBD products may be produced, how they may be produced, and the types of hemp that can be used.

As a result, making CBD products in the UK or importing them into the country has traditionally been a hassle. Due to widespread public pushback², UK lawmakers have considered loosening the nation’s stance on hemp production, but no changes are expected in the near future.

UK residents generally do not have any issue acquiring or possessing CBD products. For entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on the growing UK CBD market, however, making your way through all the red tape can be a hassle.

History of UK cannabis and hemp law

The UK has generally followed the United States’ lead with its stance toward cannabis. The UK’s 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act came hot on the heels of the 1970 Controlled Substances Act in the US, and both pieces of legislation placed cannabis in the worst-possible legal category.

There has been some time now, however, to reflect on these half-century-old facets of Western law, and in the United States at least, a much more permissive perspective toward cannabis has gradually taken hold nationwide. The UK, on the other hand, continues to make cannabis illegal for all but a select few.

CBD’s current status in the UK

With major names in UK law enforcement³ coming out in favor of outright cannabis decriminalization, it’s only a matter of time until significant changes come to the UK’s stance on CBD and other cannabinoids. Right now, however, CBD brands that want to offer products in the UK must abide by the nation’s strict hemp import and production policies. Failure to do so could result in your product being classified as cannabis, not hemp.

What does the data indicate?

A 2019 YouGov survey took a snapshot of current sentiment toward CBD in the UK. Altogether, 1,650 UK residents responded across all genders, age groups, and political affiliations. Positions toward cannabis may have changed in the interim, but this is the most recent information we have on how UK consumers feel about the effectiveness and safety of CBD.

Unsurprisingly, older UK residents are the most skeptical of CBD with younger adults being more willing to give hemp a shot. Traditional CBD oil tinctures remain the most popular products with most other product types only rarely used. The majority of UK residents who reported using CBD indicate that they used this cannabinoid for medical reasons. Let’s break down all this information in greater detail:

Which UK generation uses the most CBD?

Out of all UK adults surveyed, the age group that featured the greatest number of consumers who had used CBD was 25-49 at 11% closely followed by 18-24 at 10%. Only 8% of UK adults aged 50-64 had tried CBD in 2019, and this percentage dropped to 5% for adults aged 65+. In total, 9% of UK adults indicated that they had tried at least one kind of CBD product.

Which UK generation uses the least CBD?

In the UK, CBD is least-used among the oldest adults, coming in at 5% among individuals aged over 65. These results roughly reflect statistics from other countries. In the United States⁴, for instance, 8% of adults aged over 65 had used CBD compared to 11% of adults aged 50-64.

How does gender affect CBD consumption in the UK?

Women in the UK are slightly more likely (29%) to consider trying CBD than men (27%). Male UK CBD consumers are considerably more likely to have tried CBD vapes (28% v. 14%) while women are bigger fans of CBD tablets (14% v. 5%). Both are equally likely to use CBD for medical purposes, but women are more likely to use CBD for pain (75% v. 68%), and men are more likely to rely on this cannabinoid for anxiety or depression (41% v. 35%).

How does political affiliation affect CBD consumption in the UK?

Members of the Labor Party (14%) are far more likely to have used CBD than UK Conservatives (6%). Unsurprisingly, Labor supporters (32%) are more likely to express willingness to use CBD in the future compared to their Conservative counterparts (23%). Members of the Labor Party (77%) are more likely than Conservative UK residents (54%) to have used CBD for medicinal purposes.

Which CBD products are the most popular in the UK?

By far, CBD tinctures (also known as CBD oils) are the most popular type of CBD product used in the UK with more than 58% of survey respondents who had used CBD indicating that at least one of the hemp products they’d tried had been a tincture. Next up was CBD vape products at 21%, CBD topicals at 11%, and CBD capsules and tablets at 10%. Eight percent of survey respondents indicated that they had used CBD edibles, and 4% said they’d tried CBD cosmetics.

Do UK residents use CBD for medical reasons?

In the UK, CBD is more commonly used for medical reasons than it is not. Out of survey respondents who had used CBD, 61% indicated that they had tried this cannabinoid in the hopes that it would improve their medical status compared to 37% who said they’d used CBD for other reasons. Interestingly, using CBD for medicinal reasons was least common among the oldest respondents who’d tried the cannabinoid (54%), and it was the greatest among the youngest (68%).

Which medical reasons do UK residents use CBD for?

Seventy-one percent of UK residents who had used CBD for medical reasons indicated that they had turned to this cannabinoid specifically for help with the pain. Thirty-eight percent reported that they’d tried CBD for depression or anxiety, and 24% said they’d used CBD for sleep. Arthritis was the trigger for trying CBD for 10% of respondents, and 3% had given the cannabinoid a shot for epilepsy.

What it all means

How do we make sense of the current status of CBD receptivity and use in the UK, and how can one use all this information for marketing purposes? Let’s take a closer look at the UK CBD market before moving on to the present situation and how to market products that match the times.

UK CBD receptivity dynamics

Even though we share a common language and a common stance toward many social issues, there are still major points of disagreement between UK and US culture, and cannabis use is one of them. Typified by the culture of London and other major cities, rural parts of the UK remain dominated by conservative ideologies that are slow to accept changes that can appear threatening like cannabis use.

Even though it’s widely understood that CBD doesn’t get you high, it’s still associated with marijuana, leading to a reticence to try CBD among older UK residents. As population dynamics continue to favor city dwellers from diverse backgrounds, the UK will become more receptive to CBD and cannabis in general.

Current status of the UK hemp market

Interest in CBD and cannabis, in general, has only swelled since the 2019 YouGov survey was conducted. As time goes by, older UK residents who are either misinformed or uninformed regarding CBD will stop making buying decisions, and they’ll be replaced with a younger generation swelling with curiosity about hemp.

While it sometimes struggles to do so on time, the UK does its best to keep up with the USA’s mercurial changes to cannabis policy. UK lawmakers are likely waiting on the US to federally legalize cannabis before they make any major moves on the CBD front, meaning the somewhat stifling status quo will likely be maintained for the foreseeable future.

Best CBD products to sell in the UK

Based on all available data, CBD tinctures remain the best product type to rely on when marketing hemp to UK audiences. While satisfying UK regulations for CBD cosmetics and food products can sometimes be arduous, CBD tinctures are simple and accepted products that usually don’t have to overcome many hurdles on their way to the hands of UK consumers.

CBD vapes are quite popular among younger hemp consumers in the UK, but the country’s government has made no effort to hide its overall disdain for vaping with e-cigarette regulations seeming to tighten by the day⁵. Aside from tinctures, hemp brands seeking to reach UK markets may also want to invest in topicals, capsules, or drinks.

UK CBD consumption demographics FAQs

1. How popular is CBD in the UK?

CBD is catching on in the UK at a rapid pace. The UK has long been one of the world’s main primary exporters of cannabis for medical and research purposes, and the average citizen of Britain is now able to access nearly any CBD product with less than 0.2% THC they could imagine.

There’s still lots of room for expansion within the UK CBD industry, though. Per capita, CBD has not yet reached the same level of popularity as is observed in the US. Now’s the time to help the UK CBD industry expand with well-differentiated and high-quality products.

2. How many people use CBD products in the UK?

Estimates have it that 3-6 million UK citizens use CBD regularly, though many more have likely tried it at some point. That’s only 5-10% of the population, far below the percentage of Americans who are estimated to now be regular CBD users. We only make comparisons to the States to demonstrate the ample room for growth within the UK CBD market.

3. Is the CBD market saturated in the UK?

It is very difficult to determine how saturated the CBD market is anywhere in the world since CBD is a very new industry. If other, more mature CBD markets are taken into consideration, however, it’s very likely that the CBD market in the UK is nowhere near its saturation point.

There is still plenty of opportunity for operators in the UK to expand the domestic CBD industry. Keep in mind that the overall CBD market has evolved to be more skeptical and sophisticated, though, punishing companies that push low-quality products in the hope of making a quick profit.

4. What is the projected growth of CBD in the UK?

Some estimates have it that the UK CBD market will swell at a rate of approximately 30% per year between now and 2025, resulting in a £1bn market by the end of that period. Estimates like these, however, can only become a reality with the help of intrepid brands willing to win hearts and minds with genuinely high-quality and reliable product options.

Summary: The evolving state of UK CBD

Many parts of the world are still hostile to CBD and hemp, so it’s comforting to come across another bastion of free-minded cannabis policy like the UK. 

In the US, the early growth of the CBD industry was spurred by a “Wild West” attitude in which anyone could make a website and start selling CBD — sometimes without even a business license. There’s a very different environment in the UK. To sell your CBD products to UK citizens, you must either grow your hemp in the UK while following a remarkably strict set of rules or subject your imported products to an even stricter set of testing procedures.

The UK government clearly doesn’t want to make any mistakes as it allows the sale of CBD within its borders. 

The best way to counter the prevailing headwinds within the UK CBD industry is to work with a trusted hemp white labeler that has already set up operations within the European regulatory sphere. Having received approval from the UK government, a Europe-based hemp supplier can make products in-region and get them onto UK shelves with a fraction of the headache and considerably higher margins.

*Please note that CBD is currently not an FDA-approved over-the-counter treatment for any medical conditions.*

Sources

1. 1. Consumer cannabidiol (CBD) products report (accessible version). (2021, December 17). GOV.UK https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/acmd-advice-on-consumer-cannabidiol-cbd-products/consumer-cannabidiol-cbd-products-report-accessible-version
2. 2. Herrington, A. J. (2022, May 30). UK Hemp Activists Launch Civil Disobedience Campaign. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajherrington/2022/05/27/uk-hemp-activists-launch-civil-disobedience-campaign/?sh=675dac206b25
3. 3. Arnold, M. (2022, June 21). British Chief Constable Supports Cannabis Decriminalization. High Times. https://hightimes.com/news/british-chief-constable-supports-cannabis-decriminalization/
4. 4. Brenan, B. M. (2021, November 20). 14% of Americans Say They Use CBD Products. Gallup.Com. https://news.gallup.com/poll/263147/americans-say-cbd-products.aspx
5. 5. E-cigarettes: regulations for consumer products. (2022, February 7). GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e-cigarettes-regulations-for-consumer-products
6. 6. YouGov Survey Results (2019, August 30)

The US has served as the birthplace and remains the epicenter of the modern-day cannabis industry. Despite its northern neighbor, Canada, legalizing cannabis¹ outright, America still outsold the competition in 2021, selling $24.5 billion² in overall cannabis products compared to Canada’s $3.9 billion.

CBD has always composed an important component of the wider American cannabis market, and it will continue to do so despite ongoing regulatory stagnation. Some reports peg CBD as bringing in more than $5.3 billion in 2021³, contributing more than a fifth of the country’s overall cannabis revenue.

Why is CBD so popular? What is it about this simple, non-intoxicating compound that keeps driving up demand year after year? In this guide, learn what surveys can tell us about the top uses of CBD in the United States.

Benefits of CBD: an overview

As an essentially unregulated substance, producers and retailers cannot make any claims about the medicinal uses of CBD. Doing so would essentially assert that CBD is an approved drug, which is prohibited by the FDA.

By necessity, therefore, we have to learn about the most popular uses of CBD from consumer buying behavior instead of relying on scientifically proven benefits. While the research into CBD doesn’t prove anything yet, though, it can be insightful when exploring the benefits of CBD that drive consumer behavior.

Research into CBD

CBD has primarily been researched for its potential usefulness for neurological disorders and pain⁴. In the brain, CBD acts on the two primary neuroreceptors involved in pain⁵, and one of these receptors (5-HT1A) is also critically involved in depression and anxiety⁶.

The benefits of CBD have also been investigated as they pertain to sleep⁷. Of course, CBD remains in widespread use among individuals who rely on this cannabinoid for epilepsy.

The stories of American children with intractable, debilitating epilepsy experiencing relief after using CBD originally thrust this cannabinoid into the international spotlight. Nearly 10 years later, many US families continue to use CBD.

The FDA’s stance on CBD

In 2018, the new Farm Bill from Congress removed hemp-derived products including CBD from the DEA’s definition of marijuana thus giving regulatory oversight for this cannabinoid to the FDA. Despite initial expectations of fast movement, however, the FDA hasn’t done much to nudge the status quo of CBD forward.

Occasional warning letters continue to be sent out to CBD companies that blatantly disregard already-established rules. Otherwise, the FDA hasn’t said much about what CBD products are right now and what they will be in the future from a regulatory perspective.

What do surveys indicate?

In America, citizens aren’t waiting on official government notice to use and sell CBD products. Information from a recent survey commissioned by Quartz⁸ indicates that not only are Americans using CBD, but they’re also using it for a wide variety of different conditions and in perhaps unlikely settings.

Let’s unpack some of the key revelations this Harris poll of 2,000 participants delivered regarding the reasons people use CBD in the US:

1. Do Americans use CBD for relaxation?

According to the Quartz survey, 56% of women and 53% of men who had used CBD indicated they had used this cannabinoid to relax. At around 55% overall, it seems to be that the majority of CBD-consuming Americans consider this cannabinoid to be relaxing, and seeking relaxation is (by a slight margin) the most common reason people in the United States use CBD.

2. Do Americans use CBD for stress and anxiety?

The second most common reason Americans use CBD is to cope with stress and anxiety. As of 2019, 50% of overall individuals (47% of women, 53% of men) who had used CBD indicated they had tried this substance specifically for anxiety or stress relief. With use of CBD for stress rising dramatically during the pandemic⁹, it’s likely that the percentage of Americans who continue to use CBD for relief from stress or anxiety has stabilized somewhat higher than 50%.

3. Do Americans use CBD for sleep?

There’s a widespread belief that CBD helps you get to sleep at night. Research into the benefits of CBD for sleep remains relatively limited, but the anecdotal evidence on the subject is quite convincing. The 2019 Quartz survey found that 45% of Americans had used CBD for help with sleep, a figure borne out by a more recent 2021 academically conducted survey¹⁰ (albeit primarily of UK adults).

4. Do Americans use CBD for pain?

Using CBD for pain took a larger slice of the pie back when we knew less about this cannabinoid. Already by 2019, the Quartz survey reveals that only 39% of CBD users in the United States relied on this cannabinoid for pain. CBD definitely remains popular as a natural pain remedy, but its potential benefits for other purposes have gained traction as well.

5. Do Americans use CBD with friends?

The Quartz survey found that a remarkable disparity of 28% of men and only 15% of women had used CBD in a social setting, representing the widest gender gap in the survey’s results. American men, it seems, are far more predisposed than American women to try CBD at a friend’s house or during a backyard barbecue. This is definitely worth taking into consideration when developing CBD products targeted toward men.

What are some other reasons Americans use CBD?

According to the Quartz survey, around 21% of 2019’s American CBD users had tried this cannabinoid for migraines while 17% had used it for nausea. Intriguingly, around 13% of respondents reported trying CBD for “spiritual use” with this response coming considerably more commonly from men. For Americans, it seems taking CBD isn’t always just a practical concern.

What the data mean for American CBD brands

This can be a lot to take in for CBD brands seeking to make the right product for the moment and target it toward the most ideal subset of consumers. To fully wrap our heads around the situation, we’ll need to take a look at how Americans are starting to view cannabis in general and how CBD will likely fit into the nation’s future stance on the plant and its derivatives:

The evolving story of US cannabis

Enduring stagnation on the federal level, cannabis legislation continues to advance state-by-state. Recreational cannabis is now legal in 19 American states, and many more states have medical marijuana programs of varying scope.

Despite being a major platform of the Democrat Party entering the 2020 elections, Congress has not enacted any significant changes on this front. Attempts to push the issue along¹¹ have so far been met with a lack of widespread support and seeming acceptance of the obviously less-than-ideal status quo.

It’s a status quo that’s getting things done, though. You can’t argue with the success of a nearly $25 billion-per-year industry, and states that have legalized cannabis aren’t going back. Even without federal support, there is now widespread acceptance of cannabis in America that is bringing along with it awareness of and demand for CBD.

What’s happening with CBD right now?

In June of 2022, hopes briefly surged that the stagnant situation surrounding CBD might be alleviated when the FDA’s Science Board indicated that it would be discussing the challenges surrounding regulating cannabinoids¹² as “dietary supplement and food ingredients.”

The 2018 Farm Bill preserved the FDA’s authority over hemp products like CBD. However, citing the lack of definitive safety information and the existence of the CBD-based pharmaceutical drug Epidiolex¹³, the FDA has delayed making any decisions regarding the non-intoxicating cannabinoid’s regulatory status.

Due to long-standing precedent, the FDA has a hard time regulating substances that are also prescription drugs as over-the-counter supplements. While it continues to send warning letters to non-compliant CBD companies, the FDA has rejected multiple recent applications to market CBD as a dietary ingredient¹⁴.

Which conditions do Americans use CBD for the most?

Ongoing regulatory ambivalence doesn’t seem to be considerably affecting consumer sentiment toward CBD. As early as 2019, a Gallup survey found that 1 in 7 Americans commonly used CBD products, and the continued growth of the CBD industry¹⁵ indicates that an even greater share of US residents now use this non-intoxicating cannabinoid.

The top uses of CBD in the United States have remained largely the same since this hemp extract first rose to popularity. Over the years, however, a subtle trend has emerged involving the evolution of consumer perception of CBD from a strictly medical substance to a product with lifestyle benefits as well.

When CBD first became available online, it was almost universally used for pain. As of 2019, however, only 39% of American CBD users reported using this cannabinoid for pain while 55% reported using it for relaxation. With 50% of American hemp users relying on CBD for stress, it’s clear that awareness of CBD’s potential to improve your overall quality of life has spread considerably.

As such, brands should be cautious of marketing CBD as a substance solely designed to help with sleep, pain, or medical conditions. Many Americans now use CBD “just because,” rewarding a more generalized approach to conveying the benefits of CBD products.

Summary: Top uses of CBD in the USA

At this point, the American CBD industry might be more disrupted if the FDA were to actually take action on hemp than it is harmed by the current state of affairs. While the 2018 Farm Bill didn’t accomplish everything necessary to make CBD a legitimately mainstream product, time has shown that it legitimized the CBD industry enough to assuage consumer skepticism and allow hemp to firmly take root in the United States economy once more.

With the pressure to address an unregulated and rapidly growing market relieved, the US federal government doesn’t seem particularly incentivized to overcome the obstacles between CBD and official regulation as a dietary supplement. What’s important, though, is that the FDA also hasn’t made any moves to make CBD harder to get.

At this point, it’s practically an inevitability that massive federal cannabis reform will be enacted in the United States within our generation. The only remaining question is how and when this reform will occur, and American hemp brands can receive assurance from the fact that consumers have lost their ability to be spooked by cannabinoids as new, unknown substances.

CBD is a household name now, and it’s popularizing a whole host of other cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and CBC. The reasons people in the United States use cannabinoids might shift over time, but American consumers will continue to use CBD while also exploring new approaches toward experiencing hemp.

American CBD use habits FAQ

Learn more about how and why Americans use CBD below:

1. Who buys CBD products?

CBD shopper demographics have recently changed to embrace a much wider cohort of lifestyles and generations. Up until quite recently, CBD had primarily been used by the very ill or those who suffer from chronic pain on a daily basis. Over the last few years, though, social media and other sources of information have helped shoppers recognize that CBD is a low side effect substance that seems to help people relax.

2. How many CBD products are there?

It is very difficult to accurately estimate the total number of CBD products that are now available on the market. It used to be the case that CBD was only competently produced by a handful of brands, but nowadays, high-quality and effective CBD products are abundant and reasonably priced, causing the cannabinoid to take on ever greater popularity in the United States. The number of unique CBD products now available online and in retail stores surely numbers in the thousands and may even reach the tens or hundreds of thousands.

3. Is relaxation the most popular use of CBD?

Yes, relaxation is now unequivocally the most popular reason people use CBD. That’s not to say people have stopped using CBD for other purposes. It’s just that so many shoppers have started using CBD specifically for relaxation that the market has skewed in their direction. Given the fact that CBD appears to offer all the relaxing properties of marijuana with none of the intoxication, it’s unsurprising that this cannabinoid has accumulated such widespread appeal.

4. Is pain the most popular use of CBD?

No, pain is no longer the most popular use of CBD in terms of sheer numbers. It’s unlikely that the number of people who use CBD for pain has gone down, but such a vast number of people have recently started using CBD for other purposes that the relative portion of shoppers who use CBD for pain has shrunk. If further uses of CBD are uncovered in the future, it’s possible that both of these popular reasons to use cannabidiol will, in their turn, be displaced as well.

Sources

1. 1. Lange, T. (2022, February 24). Canada Eclipses CA$3.9 Billion in Cannabis Sales for 2021. Cannabis Business Times. https://www.cannabisbusinesstimes.com/article/canada-eclipses-3-point-9-billion-in-2021-sales/
2. 2. Gelsi, S. (2022, May 4). Legal cannabis sales exceed Starbucks N. America sales in 2021: Report. MarketWatch. https://www.marketwatch.com/story/legal-cannabis-sales-exceed-starbucks-n-america-sales-in-2021-report-2022-05-04
3. 3. FinancialNewsMedia.com. (2022, February 2). Consumer Interest Continues to Rise as CBD Sales Expected to Reach $16 Billion By 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/consumer-interest-continues-to-rise-as-cbd-sales-expected-to-reach-16-billion-by-2026-301473433.html
4. 4. Argueta, D. A., Ventura, C. M., Kiven, S., Sagi, V., & Gupta, K. (2020). A Balanced Approach for Cannabidiol Use in Chronic Pain. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.00561
5. 5. Muller, C., Morales, P., & Reggio, P. H. (2019). Cannabinoid Ligands Targeting TRP Channels. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnmol.2018.00487
6. 6. Linge, R., Jiménez-Sánchez, L., Campa, L., Pilar-Cuéllar, F., Vidal, R., Pazos, A., Adell, A., & Díaz, L. (2016). Cannabidiol induces rapid-acting antidepressant-like effects and enhances cortical 5-HT/glutamate neurotransmission: role of 5-HT1A receptors. Neuropharmacology, 103, 16–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.12.017
7. 7. Shannon, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. The Permanente Journal, 23. https://doi.org/10.7812/tpp/18-041
8. 8. Kopf, D., & Avins, J. (2020, February 23). Survey shows Americans use CBD to treat anxiety and stress. Quartz. https://qz.com/1590765/survey-shows-americans-use-cbd-to-treat-anxiety-and-stress/
9. 9. Khalsa, J. H., Bunt, G., Maggirwar, S. B., & Kottilil, S. (2020). COVID-19 and Cannabidiol (CBD). Journal of Addiction Medicine, 15(5), 355–356. https://doi.org/10.1097/adm.0000000000000771
10. 10. Moltke, J., & Hindocha, C. (2021). Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. Journal of Cannabis Research, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00061-5
11. 11. Sibbald, K. (2022, May 23). US House of Representatives Again Passes Marijuana Reform Bill. Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/05/23/us-house-representatives-again-passes-marijuana-reform-bill
12. 12. Nichols, K. (2022, June 14). FDA takes another look at CBD, but insiders are skeptical much will change. MJBizDaily. https://mjbizdaily.com/fda-takes-another-look-at-cbd-but-insiders-are-skeptical-much-will-change/
13. 13. Drotleff, L. (2022, June 2). Federal cannabis legalization may affect FDA’s approach to CBD regulation, experts say. Hemp Industry Daily. https://hempindustrydaily.com/federal-cannabis-legalization-may-affect-fdas-approach-to-cbd-regulation-experts-say/
14. 14. Hemp Industry Daily. (2021, August 12). FDA rebuffs full-spectrum CBD as a dietary supplement. https://hempindustrydaily.com/fda-rebuffs-full-spectrum-cbd-as-a-dietary-supplement/
15. 15. Conway, J. (2022, February 22). CBD retail in the United States – Statistics and Facts. Statista. https://www.statista.com/topics/6262/cbd-retail-in-the-united-states/#dossierContents__outerWrapper

Massachusetts’ hemp and cannabis market is soaring. In 2022, Massachusetts cannabis is expected to generate more than $1.4 billion, and with recent measures streamlining the state’s hemp industry into its recreational and medical cannabis programs, industrial hemp is set to compose an increasingly significant portion of this annual revenue.

Compared to the $475 million per year Massachusetts adds to its economy from the sale of farm products, hemp and cannabis production eclipses all other agricultural operations in the state by a wide margin. Increased revenue means increased competition, however, leaving many Massachusetts do-it-yourself hemp producers high and dry.

Is it worth it to grow and extract your own hemp in Massachusetts, or is it better to work with a major extractor? If you decide to work with an extractor, how do you choose the right company? Read on to learn everything you need to know about extracting hemp in Massachusetts in 2022 and beyond.

Is hemp legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC are considered by the federal government to be industrial hemp, and legal nationwide. The state of Massachusetts has reinforced this federal position by folding hemp production into its Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) regulation program.

Massachusetts actually legalized hemp and started issuing production licenses before the federal government officially recognized its permissibility. And because of the state’s progressive outlook and infrastructure, some hemp producers in Massachusetts have been legally operating for more than half a decade.

Despite now providing hemp producers with access to its rapidly growing recreational cannabis market, Massachusetts reaffirmed that hemp itself “has no use as a recreational drug.” As a result, hemp products can be sold and purchased almost anywhere in the state—not just dispensaries.

Massachusetts CBD regulations overview

Consistent with federal regulations, CBD products for sale in Massachusetts containing less than 0.3% THC are legal so long as they are not included in food or drink products and are not accompanied by any therapeutic claims. There is no age limit for purchasing CBD products in Massachusetts, but an age limit of 21 years is imposed for those intending to purchase CBD products from a Massachusetts recreational dispensary. Lack of access to CBD-infused food and drink products has significantly limited the revenue opportunities of Massachusetts producers intending to sell their hemp products exclusively within the state’s borders.

How big is the Massachusetts hemp market?

With hemp producers now provided with access to the state’s rapidly growing recreational and medical cannabis industries, the Massachusetts hemp market is one of the nation’s largest. Hemp producers seeking to offer their products exclusively within the state’s tightly regulated cannabis and hemp market, however, may feel stifled by onerous cultivation and processing application requirements.

What are Massachusetts’ hemp cultivation license requirements?

Despite allowing the cultivation and processing of industrial hemp within its borders, Massachusetts nonetheless enforces some of the strictest hemp production regulations in the country. Some of the requirements to become a CBD producer in Massachusetts include:

• Thorough knowledge of and adherence to the MA Commercial Industrial Hemp Program Policy and the United States Department of Agriculture Final Rule for U.S. Domestic Hemp Production
• Submission of a lengthy application document 
• Payment of up to $600 in fees
• Detailed maps of each cultivation and processing site you intend to establish (low-quality or incomplete maps may result in application rejection)
• FBI-issued criminal history reports for each applicant (fee per applicant)

There’s a lot that can go wrong in the process. If your map does not meet MDAR’s standards, your hemp processing application could be rejected. Additionally, it is necessary to renew your application every year and notify state authorities of any changes that have been made to your hemp cultivation or processing operation in the interim.

Selling CBD products in Massachusetts: Factors to consider

In deciding whether it’s worth it to cultivate and process your own hemp in Massachusetts, there are a few important factors to consider:

1. How much is an acre of hemp flower worth?

An acre of hemp flower varies considerably depending on its quality and the market dynamics in the area where you intend to sell your hemp.

2. Where can I sell hemp-derived CBD products in Massachusetts?

With proper licensing, you can sell CBD products in Massachusetts recreational and medical cannabis dispensaries as well as general goods retailers throughout the state. Due to unprecedented access to eligible retailers, however, competition within Massachusetts’ CBD industry is greater than ever.

Should I grow & extract my own hemp in Massachusetts?

Given prevailing factors such as high competition and questionable profitability, it is not necessarily a wise decision to venture out on your own as a producer and extractor of hemp in Massachusetts. In the wake of the 2018 Farm Bill, thousands of farmers across the nation scrambled to start producing and selling hemp, leading to a glut of supply that thoroughly surpassed demand.

Since then, the domestic hemp market has stabilized and largely consolidated into the hands of a dozen or so major producers. Delivering greater production efficiency at reduced cost, large-scale hemp producers offer more value than small producers just starting out in the industry can reasonably hope to provide.

What are the benefits of working with a Massachusetts hemp extractor?

Working with an established hemp producer and extractor in Massachusetts is the more desirable option for a variety of reasons. Some of the most impressive benefits include:

Administrative familiarity

Eliminating rookie mistakes and leveraging advanced equipment, larger hemp producers are able to reduce production costs and increase the value of their end products, increasing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

Reduced raw materials costs

If you want to formulate your own CBD products, purchasing raw materials from an established producer is considerably less expensive than cultivating and processing your own hemp. The quality of your raw materials is also increased when you work with a large hemp producer.

Processing equipment unnecessary

The equipment required to harvest hemp, process it, and formulate it into consumable products is more costly than many first-time producers account for. Working with a major CBD oil manufacturer in Massachusetts eliminates the need to purchase this equipment, increasing your profit margins.

Improved results

Especially with competition both at the state and national level reaching unprecedented heights, offering CBD products that provide unbeatable value is a top priority. The larger scale and increased level of experience established hemp producers provide guarantee a baseline of quality and consistency that simply cannot be matched by small-scale cultivation-production operations.

What to look for in a Massachusetts hemp extractor

Now that you know the benefits of working with an established hemp extractor in Massachusetts, it’s time to learn how to select the right supplier for your needs:

Full vertical integration

Vertical integration is the practice of handling every step of the production process in-house. In the hemp industry, full vertical integration minimizes opportunities for contamination and processing errors that can reduce the value of a finished product, ensuring a steady standard of quality.

Emphasis on compliance

Acquiring necessary licensing and certification can be arduous for small-time hemp producers, but large-scale cannabinoid suppliers have the resources to actively seek out every available opportunity for compliance. Judge potential suppliers based on their willingness to go the extra mile in regards to certification and licensing.

Multi-stage lab testing

Small-scale producers may only send their crops to labs once or twice during the production process to reduce costs. Not only should larger CBD private label manufacturers have their own in-house testing facilities in-house, they should also test their products at every relevant stage during production.

Comprehensive product variety

Eligible hemp producers should have a wide variety of pre-made product options on hand and also have the capability to produce custom formulations upon request. The depth and breadth of a company’s product options speaks to their overall capabilities as a hemp producer.

Excellent customer service

To the right white-label CBD manufacturer, your brand is the center of the story. Any questions that come up should be answered promptly, and you should be assigned a dedicated customer service agent as a steady point of contact throughout your working relationship. 

Massachusetts hemp extraction business FAQs

1. Do you need a license to sell hemp in Massachusetts?

No, licensing is not required to sell hemp products in the state of Massachusetts. If you intend to cultivate hemp within the borders of this New England state, however, you will need to receive licensing. This sort of oversight is not required for shop owners who simply want to sell a few CBD products — you may sell hemp products in Massachusetts at liberty as long as you did not cultivate and produce them within the state.

2. How much is a hemp cultivation license in Massachusetts?

According to the Massachusetts state department established to govern hemp horticulture, it costs $100 to apply for a hemp cultivation license. Applying for a license is no guarantee that your application will be accepted, however, and the Massachusetts state government will not refund your application fee if it is denied.

3. Can I grow hemp in my backyard in Massachusetts?

It is very unlikely that the state of Massachusetts will approve of your plan to grow hemp in your small plot of residential land. If you are a rural farmer or landowner, however, your definition of “backyard” might be very different from a Bostonite’s. Always consult with the Massachusetts state government before proceeding with any hemp cultivation plans you may have.

4. Can you sell hemp seeds in Massachusetts?

There do not appear to be any laws specifically prohibiting or controlling the sale of hemp seeds or other hemp products in Massachusetts. Since hemp seeds do not even contain any cannabinoids, it is highly unlikely that state authorities will take offense to any plans you may have to sell these nutritionally beneficial seeds in your retail establishment.

Extracting hemp in Massachusetts: The bottom line

Is it worth it to become a hemp manufacturer in Massachusetts in 2022? Unless you’re absolutely sure you have everything you need to succeed and can afford to absorb some losses along the way, probably not. Massachusetts may be an ideal market for selling hemp at the moment, but your profitability will take a hit if you decide to pursue this venture alone.

Working with a white label CBD product manufacturer costs less than growing and processing your own hemp, and taking this approach results in higher-quality products your customers will appreciate. Offering a wide range of raw materials and finished product formulations with endless opportunities for customization, GVB Biopharma is the ideal solution for any Massachusetts hemp brands searching for a supplier. Contact GVB Biopharma today to get started.

Florida’s farming industry, traditionally a major epicenter of agriculture in the United States, has recently been hit with major setbacks that have caused many landowners to switch from conventional crops to hemp. At the same time, Florida’s CBD oil market has boomed in the wake of both state and federal laws giving the green light to hemp producers and consumers.

There are many ways to start a hemp business in Florida, and not all of them involve growing or even processing your own hemp. What’s the best way to make money with hemp in 2022, and why should you choose GVB Biopharma as your supplier of cannabinoid products in Florida? Find the answers in this guide.

When did hemp become legal in Florida?

Hemp became federally legal with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, and Florida echoed this position with a state bill that was signed into law in 2020. Ever since, Florida farmers have been free to grow and process hemp, and consumers in the Sunshine State have been given the go-ahead to consume hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC. For Florida hemp cultivators, though, prospects aren’t necessarily all sunshine and roses as the state motto would have you think.

Florida CBD regulations overview

In Florida, you’re free to purchase and consume CBD products as long as you’re over the age of 18 and the products in question contain less than 0.3% THC. While Florida has a thriving medical cannabis program, you don’t need a medical card to buy CBD products in the Sunshine State. If you want to grow hemp or produce CBD products in Florida, however, you’ll need to acquire appropriate licensing from the state government.

How much is the Florida hemp market worth?

According to Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) commissioner Nikki Freid, the state’s hemp industry contributed $370 million to the Florida economy in 2020 with further growth expected in subsequent years. These numbers make two points abundantly clear: Floridians are interested in using hemp products, and there’s still plenty of room to capitalize on those consumer needs.

Selling hemp in Florida: Requirements & factors to consider

There are a lot of questions you need to ask before you start selling hemp in Florida. Some of the most important factors to keep in mind include:

Do you need a license to sell hemp in Florida?

Yes, you will need to be properly licensed if you want to produce or sell hemp products in Florida. Unlike many other states, Florida allows CBD to be included in food and drink products, but as a result, all hemp producers in the state must apply for a Hemp Food Establishment Permit—whether they intend to add CBD to food and drinks or not.

As part of the qualification process of receiving this permit, you must prove that your facility meets the sanitation requirements the state sets in place for all food industry businesses. If you intend to add CBD to dairy products, you must apply for further licensing.

How much is a hemp permit in Florida?

The state of Florida charges $650 per Hemp Food Establishment Permit, which is required for all businesses producing hemp products intended for human consumption. This permit must be renewed every year, and an additional $650 fee is applied with each renewal.

What do you need to get a hemp permit in Florida?

The requirements for receiving a Hemp Food Establishment Permit in Florida are quite strenuous. Applicants must familiarize themselves with the guidelines provided in Florida Statute Section 581.217 and Florida Administrative Code Rule 5K-4.034, and they must adhere to the state’s standards for all facilities producing goods for human consumption.

Furthermore, you must apply for the correct type of licensing for your particular business. There are three options: a Wholesale/Manufactured Food Establishment Permit, a Retail Food Establishment Permit, or a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center Edibles Food Establishment Permit. Then, it is also necessary to apply for a general Florida food permit.

The state of Florida sends officials to personally inspect every new hemp business before operations commence. In addition to these state requirements, counties and municipalities in Florida may also have their own regulations for hemp businesses operating in their jurisdictions.

Is hemp hard to farm in Florida?

Florida is an ideal environment for growing many crops. Hemp, however, only thrives in well-drained soil, so the marshy boglands of Florida’s southern expanses are not particularly ideal for hemp agriculture. Northern Florida, on the other hand, is a near-perfect climate for hemp cultivation. Experienced farmers and long-standing operations are able to navigate the variable terrain which can potentially threaten crops due to natural diseases or susceptibility to pests.

Is growing hemp profitable in Florida?

Depending upon one’s experience, growing hemp in Florida can certainly be profitable. A combination of onerous state regulations, plentiful plant diseases, and less-than-ideal environmental conditions in the southern half of the state may stymie would-be hemp entrepreneurs.

How to start a CBD business in Florida: Step-by-step

If you want to sell CBD in Florida, there are a few steps you’ll need to take:

1. Acquire all relevant licensing

Make sure to acquire all licensing you may need before you take any other steps in establishing your Florida hemp business. We recommend contacting the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services if you are not sure which types of permitting are required for your venture.

2. Come up with a business plan

How will you acquire your products, where will you sell them, and how will you market them? Answer these questions by creating a detailed business plan.

3. Find a source of CBD

Determine where you will source your CBD bulk ingredients or finished CBD products. Will you face down Florida’s strict regulations and produce your own CBD, or will you purchase pre-formulated products in bulk from an out-of-state producer—bypassing many licensing requirements?

4. Formulate your products

Start producing the products you listed in your business plan. Either come up with formulations on your own or enlist the help of an established white label producer like GVB Biopharma

5. Market your brand

Determine how you will spread awareness of your brand among Florida hemp consumers. A qualified CBD private labeler will be able to help you with marketing concerns.

6. Adapt to evolving market dynamics

As a hemp brand, never rest on your laurels. The CBD industry is evolving rapidly nationwide, and nowhere are these changes more apparent than in Florida, one of the nation’s largest and most politically tumultuous states.

Benefits of working with a Florida white label CBD manufacturer

There are quite a few reasons it’s better to work with a white label CBD oil producer when you’re starting a hemp business in Florida. Some of the most compelling benefits include:

Better products

Professionally made products are simply better than the types of formulations you can come up with on a start-up budget. Not only is product quality improved when you work with an established white labeler, but the products you purchase will likely cost less per cannabinoid.

Reduced legwork

In some states, acquiring the permits necessary to cultivate and process hemp does not constitute a significant barrier of entry for aspiring CBD businesses. By lumping hemp cultivation in with food production however, Florida makes it both difficult and expensive for new hemp producers to start out.

Florida still requires that you be licensed even if you sell completely preformulated hemp products. Acquiring licensing as a company selling white label CBD products is, however, considerably simpler than becoming licensed as a Florida hemp cultivator and processor.

Increased profitability

By cultivating and processing hemp on an industrial scale in states where licensing requirements are more agreeable, white label CBD producers are able to offer better products at a lower price point. Paying less per milligram of CBD you acquire allows you to make more profit when selling hemp products in Florida.

How to choose a Florida private label CBD manufacturer

The benefits of working with a private label CBD oil manufacturer are clear. How do you choose the right white labeler for your needs, though?

Prioritize full vertical integration

Splitting up the processes necessary to create a finished CBD product only leaves more room for error. Companies that control every aspect of the hemp production process, viafull vertical integration are able to offer better products at lower prices.

Demand comprehensive compliance

Companies must contend with licensing and certification requirements wherever they produce hemp in the United States. Qualified white label hemp producers actively seek out any available opportunities for compliance and offer full transparency regarding the certifications they have received.

Check for lab testing

For larger hemp producers, third-party testing is not always prioritized. However, the right hemp white labeler will, test its products with an accredited third party laboratory as well as using in-house resources throughout the formulation process in order to provide customers with comprehensive and detailed lab reports.

Ask about customization

One size certainly does not fit all when you need to stand out in an increasingly competitive hemp industry. The best white label CBD manufacturers provide a wide range of options for creating customized finished products.

Evaluate customer service capability

Ideally, you’ll be working with the wholesale CBD manufacturer you choose for a long time. Seek out a company that goes out of its way to listen to each client’s particular needs and business desires.

The bottom line: Starting a CBD business in Florida

The Sunshine State may be a land of golden opportunity for shrewd hemp entrepreneurs, but it’s also an industry rife with landmines for CBD businesses that are less than diligent in the many facets of business formation and legal compliance. With unsurpassed production capability, utilization of organic and non-GMO ingredients, and particularized attention to licensing and certification processes, GVB Biopharma is the ideal partner for aspiring hemp businesses in Florida and elsewhere across the country.

Providing some of the nation’s best cannabinoid products at the most reasonable prices, GVB Biopharma serves as a trusted advisor for Florida CBD entrepreneurs seeking to make the most out of their state’s unique circumstances. Contact GVB Biopharma today to bring your Florida hemp business dreams to life.

Florida hemp business FAQ

Want to learn more about growing hemp in the Sunshine State? Check below for answers to frequently asked questions:

How do I become a hemp grower in Florida?

To become a hemp grower in the state of Florida, you will need to begin by acquiring licensing from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. A representative will provide you with the necessary paperwork you need to file to grow hemp legally in Florida.

From there, it will be necessary to come up with an effective business plan, acquire sufficient agricultural property, hire employees, purchase equipment, and complete a variety of other tasks involved in running an agricultural business. Due to the extreme difficulty of starting and managing a sizable hemp cultivation operation, many CBD entrepreneurs in Florida decide to buy their hemp products white-label instead.

How much do hemp farmers make per year?

The amount of profit individual hemp farmers can hope to see has decreased every year since the hemp boom of 2019. These days, hemp is not considered to be a particularly lucrative crop unless you have the infrastructure in place to grow it efficiently in a large-scale operation.

Is there big demand for hemp?

There is still considerable demand for hemp, but this demand is increasingly being fulfilled by a smaller and smaller group of large companies that have learned how to grow hemp efficiently and profitably. Demand for hemp will continue to increase gradually as the years go by.

Is CBG hemp popular for farming?

As the CBD market has gradually become tighter, many farmers have turned to growing CBG-rich hemp instead. Over time, expect CBG and a variety of other hemp cannabinoids to become popular targets for agriculture since hemp is only getting more popular.

Water-soluble CBD is one of the latest and greatest additions to the vast assortment of wholesale CBD products available on the internet. This type of CBD extract can do things that other extracts can’t, and it’s ideal for a variety of products that were previously difficult to produce. Learn more about what water-soluble CBD is and does, and find out how to select the best water-soluble CBD manufacturer to power up your products.

What is water-soluble CBD?

As its name suggests, water-soluble CBD is a type of CBD extract that dissolves in water—something other types of CBD can’t do. By binding CBD with a special hydrophilic carrier, this naturally lipid-soluble cannabinoid becomes dissolvable in water-based substances.

The benefits of water-soluble CBD don’t end there, though. As an indirect consequence of making CBD soluble in water, this cannabinoid can kick in faster and might absorb more fully before it’s excreted. As a result, water-soluble CBD is now in high demand for all types of CBD products, not just drinks.

Is water-soluble CBD full-spectrum?

Yes, it’s certainly possible for water-soluble CBD to be full-spectrum, which is a type of CBD extract that contains up to 0.3% THC. Water-soluble CBD can also be broad-spectrum (the same as full-spectrum but with no THC) or isolate (consisting only of the CBD molecule)

Which is better: CBD oil or water-soluble CBD?

Oil-based CBD extracts certainly have their place. Due to their increased versatility and enhanced bioavailability, however, water-soluble CBD extracts are becoming increasingly popular for products that are designed to offer quick and potent benefits.

Is water-soluble CBD the best extract type?

Some people would consider water-soluble CBD to be the best type of CBD extract available since it offers increased benefits without many considerable downsides. It remains a fact, though, that oil-based CBD extracts are still easier to use with certain product formulations, and water-soluble CBD can cost more than oil-soluble CBD concentrates.

What are the benefits of water-soluble CBD?

The three primary assets of water-soluble CBD are enhanced bioavailability, faster activation, and compatibility with a wider array of product types. Let’s take a look at each asset in a bit more detail:

Offers enhanced bioavailability

Due to its hydrophilic properties, water-soluble CBD absorbs into bodily tissues more easily, resulting in higher bioavailability. As the measurement of how much of a substance your body can use before it is excreted, bioavailability is a key determiner of both the value and effectiveness of a CBD product.

Activates faster

Since they are hydrophobic, oil-based CBD extracts take longer to absorb into your bloodstream. The same hydrophilic properties that make this type of CBD extract more bioavailable, on the other hand, also cause water-soluble CBD to deliver its desired effects more quickly.

Compatible with a wider array of product types

Water-based products like drinks and facial serums simply aren’t compatible with lipid CBD extracts. CBD oil separates in water, defeating the purpose of infusing it in the first place. Water-soluble CBD, however, remains dispersed throughout liquid volumes for months at a time.

Water-soluble CBD: Pros and cons

Let’s quickly summarize the pros and cons of water-soluble CBD before moving on:

Pros

• Improved bioavailability and activation times
• Compatible with water-based products
• Currently a hot topic among CBD consumers

Cons

• Expires faster than oil-based CBD extracts
• Usually more expensive than conventional CBD

Best product types for water-soluble CBD

Using water-soluble CBD is more advantageous than relying on lipid-based CBD extracts in a surprisingly wide range of situations. Certain types of products, however, are better suited for water-soluble CBD than others. Let’s explore the product categories that will benefit the most from featuring water-based instead of oil-based CBD:

Premade drinks

Pre-mixed drinks like bottled water, sports drinks, and soda are ideal targets for water-soluble CBD. Water-based beverages simply aren’t compatible with oil-based CBD extracts unless heated, which has resulted in water-soluble CBD opening up entirely untapped segments of the hemp market.

Drink mixes

Dried drink mixes are just as ideally suited for water-soluble CBD as pre-mixed drinks. Due to the cost of shipping, developing drink powders that consumers mix at home often offers higher profit margins.

Tinctures

Water-soluble CBD isn’t just for water-based products. The improved bioavailability and absorption times of water-soluble CBD also make this type of extract desirable in more conventional products like tinctures. 

Softgels

Just like tinctures, softgels can also benefit from containing water-based instead of oil-based CBD. Consumers won’t even know the difference until their CBD gel caps kick in faster and more potently than they’re used to with conventional options.

Gummies

Water-soluble CBD is now even a popular option in gummies. As awareness of the enhanced benefits of water-soluble CBD grows, expect it to become the default type of extract in high-end, extra-potency CBD products.

How do I find a reputable water-soluble CBD supplier?

There are now lots of companies that sell water-soluble CBD, but only one wholesale water-based manufacturer will be the right choice for your brand’s needs. In general, look for a professionally run company that produces its own products from start to finish and answers all your questions in a timely manner. It’s also very important for bulk CBD companies to be fully certified.

Hallmarks of the best water-soluble CBD manufacturer

Some of the features you should look out for in a water-soluble CBD private label manufacturer include:

Full vertical integration

In the CBD industry, full vertical integration is when a CBD contract manufacturer has total control over its production process from seed to sale. Vertical integration ensures a reliable standard of quality that can be missing when products are handed off to subcontractors as they are manufactured.

Abundant certifications

Reputable CBD white-label manufacturers actively seek out all relevant certifications. Any water-soluble CBD manufacturer you’re considering working with should clearly post its certifications and be available to answer any questions regarding its certification efforts.

Product customization

Reliable private-label CBD manufacturers do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. While plenty of pre-made products should be available, the manufacturer you choose should also be able to work with you to produce custom products tailored to your specific needs.

Impeccable communication

From your first interaction onward, the water-soluble CBD producer you select should be consistently available to answer questions and provide all the information you need to know. You should be provided with a dedicated business development representative who is knowledgeable regarding all product options and committed to providing you with an ideal solution.

Selecting a water-soluble CBD manufacturer: The bottom line

Water-soluble CBD may currently represent the pinnacle of hemp extracts, but that doesn’t mean every manufacturer takes the same amount of care when producing their water-soluble CBD products. Take your time to shop around, and don’t settle until you’ve found a partner company that truly understands and can act upon your specific needs.

At GVB Biopharma, we go out of our way to acquire every possible certification and offer total transparency. Whether it’s to regulators or potential customers, we open our doors to anyone who wants to verify the quality of our work, and we take pride in our total dedication to customer satisfaction. To learn more about how GVB Biopharma is leading the way in water-based CBD manufacturing, contact us today.

Water-soluble CBD FAQ

If you have any lingering questions regarding the benefits of water-soluble CBD, check below for answers:

1. Where can I find water-soluble CBD powder for sale?

Water-soluble CBD powder is now widely available on the internet in both bulk and consumer quantities. If you want to harness the benefits of water-soluble CBD in the products you offer your customers, GVB Biopharma is one of the world’s premier providers of this innovative and versatile type of hemp extract.

2. Can you drink water-soluble CBD?

The short answer is yes. Water-soluble CBD drink mixes or pre-mixed beverages are drinkable. Please note that Water-soluble CBD drink mixes should be combined with an appropriate liquid prior to ingestion. There are some water-soluble CBD products that are not drinkable. Water-soluble CBD is extremely versatile and is used in gummies and capsules, which are solid objects that cannot be drunk. 

3. What are the best water-soluble CBD gummies?

Many premium water-soluble CBD gummies available online contain either full-spectrum or broad-spectrum water-soluble CBD extract and feature natural or organic ingredients. While they might offer better bioavailability and activation times than gummies containing oil-based CBD extracts, that doesn’t make water-soluble CBD gummies immune to the dangers posed by low-quality or contaminated CBD extracts. Always choose a reliable white-label manufacturer to ensure you are providing your customers with safe, high-quality products.

4. How long does it take for water-soluble CBD to kick in?

Compared to oil-based CBD extracts, which take around 30 minutes to activate when ingested orally, you should feel the effects of water-soluble CBD within 15-20 minutes. Some users report feeling the effects of water-soluble CBD even faster.

5. How long do the effects of water-soluble CBD last?

The effects of water-soluble CBD usually last the same amount of time as the effects of oil-based CBD extracts. When taken orally, for instance, you should feel the effects of water-soluble CBD for around 3-5 hours.

6. Is CBG water-soluble?

Like CBD, the cannabinoid cannabigerol (CBG) can also be formulated into water-soluble extracts. Whether it’s CBD, CBG, or CBN, GVB Biopharma is one of the world’s premier suppliers of water-soluble CBD extracts featuring each of the internet’s most popular cannabinoids.

7. How much does water-soluble CBD cost?

Under most circumstances, water-soluble CBD should not cost considerably more than other types of CBD extracts. This is especially the case for bulk water-soluble CBD, which is usually offered at approximately the same rate as conventional CBD distillates or powders of similar quality.

If water-soluble CBD is being sold for a price that’s considerably higher than the price charged for similar extracts, it’s possible the brand selling the extract could be disreputable. It’s not a crime to profit from a trend, but companies that take unethical approaches to business also usually produce lower-quality goods.

8. Is water-soluble CBD the best?

Water-soluble CBD is the best for what it’s designed to do — dissolving and staying suspended in water-based product formulations. It’s also considered to be one of the best types of CBD when it comes to bioavailability, though it’s unclear to exactly what degree.

There’s no single type of CBD product that can be considered the best, however. Water-soluble CBD extracts are not best, for instance, for vape cartridges, and they’re also unsuitable for conventional oil-based tinctures. Instead of focusing on which cannabinoid extract is “best,” try to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each extract type.

9. Is there broad-spectrum water-soluble CBD powder?

Yes, water-soluble CBD powder is often offered in broad-spectrum form. It’s just about as common to find broad-spectrum water-soluble CBD powder as it is to come across water-soluble CBD isolate.

The process of making cannabinoids water-soluble does not necessarily involve removing all other naturally occurring hemp substances. As a result, water-soluble CBD powders and liquids often contain reasonable concentrations of terpenes and minor cannabinoids.

10. Can I buy water-soluble CBD powder in bulk?

Yes, water-soluble CBD is commonly available online in bulk quantities. Consumers should be cautioned, however, that water-soluble CBD extracts are not generally suitable for consumption without being mixed with a proper product formulation.

Water-soluble CBD should, therefore, only be bought in bulk by businesses seeking to make it into consumer-grade products. A variety of product types are at your disposal, including CBD drinks and dry drink mixes, which have recently become massively popular in grocery stores around the country. When properly formulated into consumable products, water-soluble CBD has the potential to provide for shopper needs in ways no other extract can.