The benefit of a world so driven towards the next ‘new’ is that it takes you along as it progresses. The cannabis industry is one such usherer of change. But, as CBD-infused everything gains popularity, are there downsides to the substance? 

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the most famous cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Its medicinal benefits have been tested and proved time and again. Now it stands as a legitimate component in many of our products.

As the CBD industry expands, its uses do too, particularly as research mounts for it’s medicinal properties. The World Health Organization (WHO) published an official report stating CBD can be useful for a number of ailments, especially seizures.

It’s no surprise that people want its therapeutic benefits in all their products. According to the experts from Las Vegas dispensary, innovative methods of ingesting CBD have increased and the newest player is CBD-infused drinks. 

CBD has faced a lot of controversy, so let’s first start by answering some important questions surrounding this super ingredient:

Is it Legal to Use CBD Products?

The laws differ across the globe. The UK allows the sale of CBD products as long as they contain less than 0.2 percent THC and don’t claim any medical benefits.

The US Farm Bill of 2018 removed hemp from the list of ‘controlled substances’. It makes CBD possession and its use legal in all 50 U.S. states, as long as it contains less that 0.1 percent THC. But some uncertainty is still prevalent in a handful of US states.

It is therefore recommended to always check your local rules and advisories regarding cannabis-based products.

Consumption of CBD was initially restricted to as a capsule, oil solution, or vaping. But consumer demand has now boosted sales and expectations both.

This necessitated product innovations, like CBD-infused beverages. 

Billions of dollars in investments are being poured into the development of CBD-infused alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

One can easily anticipate this trend will grow, especially during trying times like the present. The global pandemic and lockdown have made health a focal point for us all.

As time progresses, CBD-drinks will only become more popular. 

Are CBD-Infused Drinks A Growing Trend?

The CBD market is set on a steady path of growth. Its US market is estimated to surpass $20 billion by 2024. Not a bad projection, and not far off either.

Naturally, many brands and industries are now trying to be a part of this leap. Infusing CBD in our regular food and drinks is the next big step in that direction. 

This type of product innovation provides faith for the investor too. It’s potential has led to many big brands leaping on the bandwagon.

While some like Coors, Docklight, and Youngevity have already made the transition, others like Coca-Cola, Pernod Richard, and Heineken are still exploring the prospect.

What Affects the Growth of the CBD-Drinks Industry?

The first factor influencing growth is an increase in authorized CBD research. As awareness grows, so does the demand. 

CBD drinks are easy to administer and access. The dosage is better controlled in a water base, so the CBD has greater bioavailability. 

As health consciousness leads people away from alcohol, some are opting to replace it with CBD-drinks. These drinks are sustainable for the “woke” consumer and are easy to access with many restaurants and pubs putting them on their menus. 

What Types of CBD Drinks Are Available?

• CBD Coffee: There are coffee shops, ready-made coffee powders, and even CBD oil being added to coffees at home. Coffee’s stimulation on our nervous system is well known. It makes us alert and focused. However, it also increases our heartbeat and could cause headaches and nausea leading to anxiety. CBD, on the other hand, has been linked to decreases in anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. 

Pros: The positive effects of CBD cancel out the negative effects of coffee. It provides a boost of energy without any anxiety. CBD coffees have antioxidants that help achieve increased brain function.  

Cons: CBD coffee has been on the circuit for quite a while now. None of the users have reported any ill-effects on their bodies.

• CBD Water: CBD infused water is another simple way to ingest this compound. It is made by simply infusing water with CBD particles through nanoemulsion technology. 

Pros: It is easy to drink, needs no extra preparation. 

Cons: Most brands include minimal levels of CBD (2-5 mg) in their water. For it to be beneficial for the body, studies suggest a person needs to have at least 15 mg CBD every day (approximately). Supermarket shelves are exposed to light and air which degrades CBD particles. It’s expensive and provides lesser CBD content.  

• CBD Wine: CBD is mixed with Wine via nanoemulsion. This allows CBD to infuse with the drink, providing you its benefits with the taste of wine. 

Pros: The flavor and aroma of wine remain intact while the alcohol is replaced with CBD. Reduced calorie intake. Most bottles indicate the CBD dosage. 

Cons: Dosage needs to be monitored. For medicinal benefits, one might need to have excessive consumption of the product. 

• CBD Alcohol/Cocktail: Non-alcoholic beverages benefit from the presence of CBD as it provides a similar taste and relaxes and calms the senses. All of this is achieved without the presence of alcohol and its detrimental effects. 

Pros: May alleviate anxiety and insomnia without giving a hangover. Prevents cell and body damage by preventing excessive alcohol consumption.

Cons: There is very little research done on these grounds. It is advised to limit the dosage of such drinks to keep the body in check.

• CBD Kombucha: Kombucha is a naturally carbonated drink made from tea. Many wellness brands are now combining it with CBD oil to create a better beverage.

Pros: Kombucha-CBD drinks have antioxidant, calming, and probiotic properties. Improves digestion and the immune system.

Cons: Not enough research has been done on the risks associated with this drink. It is advisable to consult your doctor before consuming it. 

CBD taken medically or recreationally follows the same rule as every other food/drink item: excess is bad. Keeping that in mind, CBD infused drinks have their own pros and cons and one should be vigilant while indulging in them. While the benefits outweigh the negatives in most of these cases, it’s always better to keep a tab on our consumption patterns. 

The need of the hour is in-depth and transparent research along with better laws surrounding it. Looking at the rising demand, it’s only natural to expect better products and promotions in this field. With big brands and celebrity endorsement, CBD-infused drinks may very well be the next big thing in the cannabis industry.