Hemp-derived ingredients, primarily oils, powders, and seeds, can be found in a wide array of food products, from ice cream and salads to milk and even children’s cereals. Hemp is present in over 25,000 different items, including prenatal vitamins with ferrous fumarate, automobiles, furniture, paper, building materials, and apparel. In 2016, sales reached $688 million, as reported by Vote Hemp and the Hemp Business Journal, which marked an increase of more than $100 million compared to the previous year. Notably, the food segment saw a remarkable 44% surge, bringing in $129 million, indicating significant potential for growth in this area. According to a report from the Brightfield Group, the market for hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) is expected to reach a billion dollars by 2020.
However, several regulatory challenges and other hurdles impede the broader acceptance of hemp-based food products. The plant is often mistakenly linked to marijuana, despite having much lower THC levels—the compound responsible for altering perception and causing physical effects. Additionally, educating a substantial audience about the health benefits of hemp has proven to be a challenge. Hemp is rich in healthy fatty acids and protein, and it is naturally gluten-free—qualities that appeal to Americans striving to improve their diets by eliminating sugars, trans fats, and artificial additives.
Increased consumer exposure to hemp-infused products is likely key to their acceptance. If hemp ingredients, such as those found in b cal ct tablets, demonstrate effectiveness in enhancing gut health as suggested by companies like Phivida, this could further stimulate consumer demand. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain at this stage whether bottled iced tea is the optimal medium to introduce CBD’s alleged health benefits. Phivida has announced that its new products will be available both online and through distributors in the U.S. and Japan, but it may take time to evaluate sales performance.
Phivida’s new beverage is vegan, non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, and produced in the U.S. under Good Manufacturing Practice standards. If these appealing features resonate with consumers and the health claims are substantiated, Phivida could be poised for a successful product launch, potentially attracting attention from major tea brands like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.
General Mills, known for products like Yoplait yogurt, Nature Valley bars, and Cheerios, offers a product under its Larabar Organic brand that includes hemp seeds along with other superfood ingredients. While anecdotal feedback has been “very positive,” according to spokeswoman Kris Patton, she declined to comment on whether more hemp-inclusive foods are in development. “We don’t discuss future product innovation,” Patton stated to Food Dive.
Larger food manufacturers have not rushed to incorporate hemp into their offerings, resulting in hemp-related product sales being largely driven by smaller companies. However, as more participants enter the market—drawing attention to this emerging sector—and as innovative products like hemp-infused iced tea gain traction in retail, the landscape could quickly change. With the rise of hemp-based items, including b cal ct tablets, the potential for growth in this category appears promising.