Hemp-derived CBD is an exciting and promising ingredient in food products. Currently used in energy bars and muesli bars as well as beverages.
Hemp is now federally legal in the US; however, state laws vary on its status.
Legality
Hemp, marijuana and CBD are related plants with distinct differences within each species. Just as great Danes and chihuahuas look very differently from each other; cannabis sativa and hemp differ greatly when it comes to psychoactive properties: Marijuana has higher THC concentrations while hemp boasts less than 0.3% on a dry weight basis.
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized CBD made from hemp provided its production is in compliance with both federal regulations and associated state laws. Unfortunately, laws regarding THC-containing cannabis vary across states.
To minimize legal risk, it is vitally important to identify CBD products produced within the US. You can do this by consulting the product label and checking its origin – ensure it comes from hemp if possible; otherwise contact the manufacturer with any inquiries about this matter.
Extraction methods
One of the most effective approaches for extracting hemp-derived CBD is through ethanol extraction, which uses non-toxic solvents such as alcohol to strip cannabinoids from hemp plants before evaporating to leave behind extractable cannabinoids. This method may appeal to consumers seeking a concentrated form of hemp oil.
Supercritical CO2 extraction is another popular extraction method. This process typically entails three chambers: The first contains liquid CO2, while an extraction machine pumps this CO2 into a second chamber filled with plant material; this CO2 then transforms into supercritical gas quickly separating cannabinoids from hemp plants.
Hemp contains over 400 naturally-occurring chemical compounds, such as cannabidiol and other phytocannabinoids. Terpenes and flavonoids also work alongside these cannabinoids to further their beneficial effects on our Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
Safety
CBD is a non-intoxicating phytochemical that works with your endocannabinoid system to support various bodily functions. As its health benefits have gained widespread interest, yet studies have yet to prove them all, those interested in trying CBD should consult their physician first so as not to interfere with any other medications they are currently taking.
Hemp-derived CBD is legal in all 50 states as long as its THC level falls within 0.3% or below, but it’s still important to differentiate it from marijuana-derived CBD as this latter compound can cause a higher level of psychoactivity and cause highs.
FDA and EFSA advise consumers to limit hemp-derived CBD intake to 400 mg or less daily. Although the FDA has yet to approve any medical claims regarding CBD’s uses, they continue to support research into potential applications of it. Consumers should always follow label instructions.
Availability
Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant with high concentrations of CBD but low amounts of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can cause intoxication. Hemp can be grown as an industrial crop for textile production or extracted to create CBD oil which can then be further processed into products like tinctures, gummies, capsules and lotions.
Hemp-derived CBD can be an effective solution to anxiety, depression and sleep disorders. Furthermore, it may reduce seizures for those living with epilepsy as well as having anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate digestive pain and nausea symptoms.
Remember, CBD remains a Schedule 1 substance under federal law; however, products made from hemp containing less than 0.3 percent THC may be legal in most states. The FDA advises consumers to do research their local laws prior to making a purchase from hemp-derived products.
