Daily Archives: February 27, 2024

A Tampa entrepreneur who sells alternative-wellness gummies and salves could be that rare business case where he has to pack his bags and move his company to another state because of new Florida regulations.

And that entrepreneur, Jonathan Solomon of Tampa-based Proleve, isn't alone. A small army of loosely-aligned hemp and CBD retailers and businesses statewide are bristling at industry reform legislation they say is really an overreaction littered with unintended consequences.

The gist of the legislation, proposed by a pair of Tampa Bay area lawmakers: a limit on the amount of delta-9 THC in hemp extracts. The measure adds to a 2023 rule that made it legal to buy hemp-extracted products only at age 21 and over. The current law also bans packaging attractive to children.

Supporters of the legislation, and its sponsors Rep. Tommy Gregory, R-Lakewood Ranch and state Sen. Colleen Burton, R-Lakeland cite safety issues on the use, and marketing, of THC-containing products.

But beyond that, the legislation also has the potential to radically change the connected CBD industry a prediction both sides of the debate agree on, albeit from disparate perspectives. CBD makers use the cannabis sibling of marijuana hemp to extract CBD. But there's enough THC in hemp to draw legal oversight.

The Florida Senate unanimously passed the bill, SB 1698, and a companion version, HB 1613, has been approved by multiple state House committees. Gov. Ron DeSantis indicated he will sign the bill once the House passes it and the Legislature sends the final negotiated bill to his office. So the likelihood of total passage is, for lack of a better word, high. (The law could take effect on Oct. 1.)

Companies and entrepreneurs bellowing the big hand of government and threatening to ditch Florida isn't the norm. It's not the business story the Legislature and Gov. DeSantis usually tell. They say the Sunshine State is the "free state of Florida."

Solomon, for one, says his business of 25 employees, in its 23,000-square-foot Tampa facility, could shutter should the new regulations hit the CBD industry, which needs hemp for the CBD.

Solomon founded Proleve in 2018 knowing there was a market for "alternative wellness" products such as CBD gummies, tinctures and salve. He says he has loyal customers as senior as 94 years old. He made the Business Observer's 40 under 40 in 2020.

While Solomon declined to say what his 2023 revenues were, Proleve issued a statement that its 2020 revenues were $5 million. That was up 178% from $1.8 million in 2019.

"The lawmakers are going to get a big surprise," Solomon says of the bills he projects will "kill" the CBD industry. "The consumers are going to get a big surprise."

Solomon is not alone in his worries. February committee hearings in the Florida Legislature brought out a number of CBD store owners who objected to proposed new rules and ingredient limitations that relate to gummies, salves and oils. Store owners will have to toss out some CBD products altogether if they contain too much of this (hemp's delta-9 THC) or any of that (hemp's rarer delta-8 THC).

Marcus Quinn, CEO of Palmetto-based SunMed-Your CBD Store, a national hemp retailer with 350 locations in 42 states, says in a Feb. 23 news release that the new law could be "industry killing," an unnecessary regulation on low-THC hemp products.

Quinn says the proposals could have economic repercussions and cause people to wonder about Florida's regulatory certainty. A Fort Lauderdale attorney specializing in the industry echoes those concerns, saying there are tints of bias, picking winners and losers, in the proposed legislation.

CBD has been legal in Florida since 2019. CBD makers use hemp for extracting product instead of cannabis sibling marijuana, which has less CBD and more of that other ingredient, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the high-inducing, chemical sibling to CBD.

CBD is an alternative-wellness product used for seizure disorders, pain and sleep. To some top researchers, it's not snake oil but it's not a cure-all: "moderate" evidence shows it to be effective, according to Harvard University Medical School. The University of Alabama at Birmingham also found it decreased seizures.

Gregory and Burton say CBD and hemp will not be banned. But the Florida hemp industry, not their reform legislation, is mostly to blame for the fracas, they say.

Gregory tells the Business Observer that some hemp licensees took advantage of state and federal deregulatory laws, passed by various bodies from 2014 to 2019. Florida has hundreds and hundreds of hemp licensees not using their seeds on great swaths of land for legal things like rope, textiles or CBD, he says.

Rep. Tommy Gregory, R-Lakewood Ranch, is pushing for more regulation of hemp and its extracts. State Sen. Colleen Burton, R-Lakeland, passed her hemp regulations with no opposing senate votes.

Instead, 83 state licensees are using only 35 acres not the 20,000 acres lawmakers expected for diverse uses. Much of that hemp is being used to make intoxicating marijuana-like products that contain too much THC, Gregory says.

Gregory explains further: Some of this hemp is being used to make synthetic or rare THC variants not the normal delta-9 THC used in medical marijuana and then put in commercial products like gummies. Sometimes producers use foreign-bought additives to make the high more potent, Gregory says.

He and Burton describe a statewide drug problem waiting to happen a Florida experience no one wants to relive and say the intent of the hemp laws are being bent. The gray area must be addressed with clear regulation, they say.

"These were not the same products that were part of the conversation," says Burton.

But Solomon and other CBD makers do not want to be involved in this fight. Solomon's Proleve makes and sells gummies and salve products with CBD, legal in Florida because CBD has no or minimal THC.

It's that "minimal" part that has ensnared CBD stores.

CBD products with less than 0.3% of THC are compliant with what lawmakers want. The pair of hemp bills would officially mandate that extracts contain under 0.3% of delta-9 THC. The bills would also ban delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC, a synthetic, as well as a few other things Gregory and Burton say don't belong in extracts.

Gregory, an attorney, has become a bit of an expert on hemp extracts after listening to days and days of doctors testifying about how many milligrams of delta-9 THC are barely noticeable and how many milligrams will get one "high."

And on what kind of variants of THC should be banished. As Gregory spoke to the Business Observer, he browsed through some Florida websites selling CBD and noted one store's gummies with delta-8 THC would be illegal if the law passes.

That's a ban that would affect 10,000 Florida retailers, Quinn says.

Hemp, in Florida and nationwide, has a long history of uses and regulation.

The U.S. government banned hemp production in 1937. But in 2018, the U.S. Farm Bill "authorized the production of hemp and removed hemp and hemp seeds from the Drug Enforcement Administration's schedule of Controlled Substances," according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which was supposed to regulate it.

Gregory says that regulation didn't quite happen, either in Florida or the United States.

Burton says some extracts of Florida's hemp have fallen through federal and state loopholes, producing the type of products that can produce a potent "high." Any hemp extract containing more than 0.3% of delta-9 THC is basically marijuana, she told the Business Observer.

So the bills would add a list of requirements on hemp extract manufacturers and even sellers of CBD. Manufacturers must have lab certificates indicating batches of their extract have 0.3% of delta-9 THC and under. The bill calls for packaging and protection from decay, an expiration date and child-resistance.

That legal definition will complicate things quite a bit for CBD producers, Solomon contends.

"Even if a lab were to test a CBD gummy, there's always a chance of lab error," says Solomon.

Given the relative popularity of CBD, lawmakers can expect fallout if and after the law takes effect, Solomon projects, because scores of CBD makers will simply leave Florida, and stores will shutter.

"The limitations are too strong to stay here," says Solomon.

Yet Burton is firm in her convictions, and doesn't deny some hemp producers like Solomon will feel a pinch, even though the new law has no criminal provisions. Hemp manufacturers will have to adjust, she says, just as they had to do adjust after a 2023 law made CBD and hemp-extract products abide by packaging rules that deterred children.

"It will change the market," says Burton. "Nobody denies that."

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Florida CBD retailers worry statewide hemp legislation will crush them - Business Observer

Relaxation, this way

FIVE Palm Jumeirah has cemented itself on the Dubai hospitality scene as the ultimate home of hedonism. But on a hazy Saturday morning, theres a calmness to the Instagram-fodder glass lobby that might surprise those used to seeing it filled with the usual throng of party people. But were not here for one of those now legendary beach soirees or party brunches, instead were making our way to the spa. REFIVE, the hotels wellness space, is arguably its best kept secret: its bright and breezy and adorned in warm lighting and neutral shades that feel instantly calming.

Always keen to add to their roster of city firsts, the hotel has linked up with London-born OTO to offer Dubais first array of CBD-based massages and facials. The oils were developed by OTOs founder Gemma to aid with everything from sleep and muscle relaxation to restoring a sense of calm or focus. When it comes to the offering at REFIVE, its all about easing muscle tension and inviting guests to envelope in 90 minutes of pure, deep relaxation. But does it work?

It helps that the setting our double heighted ceiling couples spa suite is stunning. With a jacuzzi for guests to use after their treatment, a private terrace, and a relaxation area just for you afterwards, it makes you instantly want to zen out. We can choose from either Amplify or Balance oils, opting for the former, and whether wed like to enhance the pressure with the bamboo roller (in the name of journalistic research, we nod nervously, knowing our pain tolerance resembles that of a young child). Then we robe up, lie down on the massage bed, and get ready for an hour and a half of relaxation.

It doesnt take long for us to reach a state of near sleep, with the melodic classical music, dim lighting, and the ideal level of rhythmic pressure from our masseuse. Theres a subtle herbal fragrance to the Amplify oil with lingering botanical notes, but its not overpowering and to begin with, we dont notice it at all. Later, notes of bergamot and bitter orange give a citrusy essence that adds to the relaxation. Through the massage, the combination of firm pressure from the bamboo roller and the OTO oil, we find any built-up tension melding away, particularly in those areas at the top of the back that usually collect knots and kinks. But with the use of the bamboo roller, they glide out in just a few movements.

As we emerge from our state of relaxation to enjoy a fruit tea, were feeling blissfully (and rather smugly) like a weight has been lifted. With pampered skin and muscles successfully limbered, its mission accomplished.

REFIVE, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, 10am to 10pm Mon to Fri, 10am to 12am Sat and Sun, Dhs855 for 90 minutes. Tel: (0)4 455 9964. palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com

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FIVE Palm Jumeirah has launched a CBD oil massage: here's what it's like... - What's On Dubai

Trend - Cannabis is increasingly added as an ingredient in fitness and even weight loss-focused products. It's being embraced for its medicinal benefits, such as anti-nausea and anxiety reduction. Both qualities are attractive added benefits to one's weight loss or fitness journey, particularly if undergoing additional treatments.

Insight - Though previously seen as a detrimental ingredient to one's health, cannabis is being embraced as an ingredient with numerous benefits. This is especially attractive to consumers who no longer view fitness or weight loss in a vacuum and view wellness as more expansive and holistic. This goes beyond mental health benefits into specific qualities that supplement physical activity or directly address the side effects of specific weight loss treatments.

Workshop Question - Which unconventional ingredients or areas are you overlooking when brainstorming solutions to your customers' specific concerns?

See the article here:

Slim CBD - Cannabis is increasingly used in weight management and fitness-related products - Trend Hunter

Check out this comprehensive review to discover the uses, types, potential benefits, legality, how full-spectrum CBD works, and how to choose it.

Full Spectrum CBD is a type of CBD extract that contains all the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. It is derived from hemp plants, which have low levels of THC (less than 0.3%).

Unlike CBD isolate, which contains only CBD, full-spectrum CBD offers the potential benefits of the entire plant, resulting in what is known as the entourage effect.

Well explore the types, uses, potential benefits, side effects, and how to choose and use full-spectrum CBD oil.

The entourage effect: How full spectrum CBD works When all the compounds in the cannabis seeds work together, they can produce a synergistic effect known as the entourage effect. This means that the combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids can enhance the therapeutic properties of CBD.

Each compound interacts with the bodys endocannabinoid system (ECS) in different ways, potentially leading to a more comprehensive range of benefits.

Full spectrum vs. broad spectrum vs. isolate The three main types of CBD available on the market are full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD Isolate. Each type has its unique properties and benefits:

Benefits of full spectrum CBD Full Spectrum CBD has been associated with a variety of potential health benefits:

Potential side effects of full spectrum CBD While full-spectrum CBD is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. These can include:

Its important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as needed to minimize the risk of side effects. If any adverse reactions occur, its recommended to discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

How to use full spectrum CBD Full-spectrum CBD is available in most weed edibles in different forms, including CBD oil, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and more. The best method of consumption depends on personal preference and the desired effects. Here are some common ways to use full-spectrum CBD:

Dosage and frequency of use vary depending on individual needs and the concentration of CBD in the product. Its recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase until the desired effects are achieved.

How to choose and use full spectrum CBD products When choosing full-spectrum CBD products, its important to consider the following factors:

To use full-spectrum CBD products effectively, follow the manufacturers dosage instructions and start with a low dose. Its also important to be consistent with usage to allow the CBD to build up in your system over time.

Legal status of full spectrum CBD The legal status of full-spectrum CBD varies from country to country and even within different states or regions. In the United States, hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are federally legal.

However, state laws may vary, so its important to check local regulations before purchasing or using full-spectrum CBD.

What is full spectrum CBD: Final word Full-spectrum CBD offers the potential benefits of cannabis plants, thanks to the entourage effect. However, its important to consider individual preferences, health conditions, and legal regulations when deciding whether full-spectrum CBD is right for you.

Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any CBD regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.

They can help determine the appropriate dosage and provide guidance based on your specific needs.

Read more:

What is full-spectrum CBD? Benefits, types, uses, and risks - TravelDailyNews International - TravelDailyNews International

CBD capsules are a pill-like product you consume orally. The capsules consist of a casing, often made with gelatin (or a vegan or vegetarian substitute), and filling containing a specific amount of CBD.

CBD capsules are one of the many ways people can consume CBD, including oil tinctures, gummies and other edibles, and smoke or vapor inhalation.

CBD capsules are popular for a few main reasons, according to Nick Jackowetz and Cam MacNeil, the chief scientific officer and chief commercial officer of Cirona Labs, which manufactures and processes cannabinoid ingredients.

Capsules are flavorless, which can be a pleasant experience for a novice CBD user, says Jackowetz. They also contain a precise dose that doesnt require any expertise to use and takes the guesswork out for the consumer.

Many people are already used to taking pills, and most capsules are small, making them easy to add to your routine even when on the go.

Dosage

CBD capsules are handy if you want to take a specific dose each time. However, you are limited to the dosage of the product. For example, if one capsule contains 20 milligrams of CBD, you cant adjust your dosage by 5 milligrams. You can only go up or down by 20 milligrams.

CBD oil tinctures, which come in bottles with a dropper, make it easier to find a middle-of-the-road dose. However, you also face greater variability in how much CBD you measure and ultimately consume with the dropper.

Time to Take Effect

CBD capsules take a bit longer to take effect than CBD oil tinctures. With capsules, the CBD must travel through the stomach into the liver and gut to be metabolized, says Laura Fuentes, a licensed compounding pharmacist and chief officer of science and innovation at Green Roads, a CBD company. [On the other hand], if you hold CBD oil in your mouth for 30 to 40 seconds before swallowing, some of the CBD is absorbed through the oral mucosa (the membrane lining of the mouth) straight into the bloodstream. However, more research into this mechanism is needed.

CBD capsules and CBD gummies both go through first-pass digestion before taking effect, and more research is required regarding how long effects might be delayed or blunted by this process. However, while gummies often contain additional flavors and ingredients, capsules usually have a shorter ingredient list, containing only CBD and the vegan, vegetarian or regular gelatin casing of the capsule.

An individuals personal preferences determine whether the taste and aftertaste of a CBD gummy is palatable. For those who prefer flavorless options, capsules may be a more appealing choice. CBD capsules and gummies are often available in similar potencies and types.

Excerpt from:

10 Best CBD Capsules For 2024 Forbes Health - Forbes

The surge in demand for CBD products has flooded the market with multiple avenues to buy the products. CBD is now sold in stores, online websites, and even dispensaries, but where should you buy your CBD oil or gummies from?

Whats the difference between a store and a dispensary? How the purchasing experience differs, we will try to answer all such questions in this article today so that you can make an informed decision and explore the amazing benefits of CBD without any hassle.

All the reputable CBD companies now have their products placed in multiple stores and dispensaries across the country, and many people prefer to buy products through such retail outlets, but stores and dispensaries have some key differences among them. Lets take a closer look at them.

CBD stores are like your general health store, where you can buy CBD products for general wellness and recreation. This is perfect for people who just want to casually take a look at products from different brands, explore whats new in the market, and get an in-hand feel of the products to gauge the value a brand offers.

Here you can buy CBD products without any specific medical card or license. These stores often have a wide range of products like CBD salves, topicals, gummies, tinctures, and even CBD-infused snacks like cookies and brownies from multiple brands. You can call it a seven-eleven for CBD products, where you just randomly stroll through aisles of products to get a gist of pricing and variety.

Usually, you wont find any medically licensed or trained medical staff to recommend your products there. Such stores can be found in the majority of 47/50 states that have legalized the production and sale of hemp-derived CBD products by following in the footsteps of the 2018 Farm Bill.

CBD dispensaries are dedicated medical establishments that sell CBD products, especially to cater to the needs of people who use CBD products for medication purposes. They often have specialized CBD products that can provide relief from ailments like chronic pain, sleeping troubles, and anxiety issues.

Unlike CBD stores, dispensaries have a medically trained and knowledgeable staff to recommend the products based on your medical history and symptoms. This gives people an edge as they can get hands-on products that are tailored exactly to their needs. The trained medical staff keeps a check on your progress and usually sets your monthly subscription by issuing a medical card for you, which you need to show when going for a fillup.

Dispensaries often have specially formulated products that you might not find in general CBD stores; in some states, CBD is strictly sold for medical purposes only, which makes the dispensaries the only way for people to access CBD products. Usually, dispensaries sell CBD products over the counter, but for products that have a higher THC concentration of more than 0.3%, youll need to show a prescription from your doctor. For example, in states like Alabama, Arkansas, and Kansas, which allow the sale of even cannabis-derived CBD with substantial amounts of THC in them, youll need a medical cannabis license to buy CBD from dispensaries.

Well, it comes down to your personal use case, preferences, and the laws in your state. If you are someone who is perfectly healthy and just wants to incorporate some CBD into your routine to improve your general wellness, then stores are perfect for you. You dont need any specific medical card; all youll have to do is just drive over there, explore and read about available products, and buy them without any hassle. Lets say you have some friends coming over for a gaming session and quickly need to get some CBD gummies to increase your focus during gaming. Then CBD stores are the perfect option for you.

On the other hand, if you are someone who needs CBD for medical purposes, like recovering from chronic pain because of an injury or insomnia, then CBD dispensaries are perfect for you. The medically trained staff there will be able to diagnose your issues properly and give you CBD products according to that. You also get the benefit of the medical card they issue when you travel to other states for vacation or work and need CBD there. Also, the products youll find in dispensaries might not be available in general CBD stores.

However, we feel that buying CBD products from online reputable CBD brands like Colorado Botanicals provides the maximum value for money. In contrast to traditional stores or dispensaries, these online platforms offer better deals and promotions, along with the added assurance of 100% clean and organic products crafted through eco-friendly and efficient CO2 extraction methods. What sets them apart is their amazing 60-day money-back guarantee, which is something you wont find in CBD stores or dispensaries.

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CBD Store vs. CBD Dispensary : Which One is Better? - Qrius