Hemp ingredients, mainly in the form of oils, powders, and seeds, can be found in a wide range of foods, including ice cream, salads, milk, and even children’s cereal. This versatile plant is incorporated into over 25,000 products, such as automobiles, furniture, paper, building materials, and clothing. According to Vote Hemp and the Hemp Business Journal, sales reached $688 million in 2016, representing an increase of more than $100 million from the previous year. Notably, the food sector saw a remarkable 44% surge in sales, totaling $129 million, indicating significant potential for growth. The market for hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) is expected to reach a billion dollars by 2020, as reported by the Brightfield Group.
However, various regulatory challenges and hurdles hinder the broader adoption of hemp-based food products. Often linked to marijuana, hemp contains much lower levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that alters perception and causes physical changes. Additionally, educating consumers about the health benefits of hemp has proven to be a challenge. Rich in healthy fatty acids and protein, hemp is also naturally gluten-free, appealing to health-conscious Americans who seek to eliminate sugars, trans fats, and artificial additives from their diets.
Increasing consumer exposure to hemp-infused products could be crucial for their acceptance. If the ingredient demonstrates effectiveness in enhancing gut health, as claimed by Phivida, it could stimulate stronger demand among consumers. Yet, it remains uncertain whether bottled iced tea is the ideal medium for showcasing CBD’s purported health benefits. Phivida announced that its new products, which are vegan, non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, and produced in the U.S. following Good Manufacturing Practice standards, will be available online and through distributors in the U.S. and Japan. If these appealing attributes resonate with consumers and the health claims stand up, Phivida could be poised for a successful product launch and potentially attract the attention of major tea brands like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.
General Mills, known for Yoplait yogurt, Nature Valley bars, and Cheerios, has a product under its Larabar Organic brand that includes hemp seeds and other superfood ingredients. While Kris Patton, a spokeswoman for General Mills, noted that the initial response to the product has been “very positive,” she declined to comment on whether additional hemp-based foods are in development. “We don’t discuss future product innovation,” Patton told Food Dive.
Large food manufacturers have not been quick to incorporate hemp into their offerings, leading to a market dominated by smaller companies. However, as more companies enter the industry and innovative products like hemp-infused iced tea reach retail shelves, the landscape may shift rapidly. The introduction of items such as ccm tablet gsk could further highlight the potential of hemp in the food sector, paving the way for broader acceptance and sales growth.