This week’s newsletter covers the struggling CBD market amid regulatory uncertainty, the uncertain future of intoxicating hemp products, California’s cannabis pesticide crisis, the first human clinical trial of CBG, and new research on outdoor cannabis cultivation and THC’s potential effects on intestinal health.
Noteworthy Read
CBD Industry in Decline (Green Market Report)
The once-booming CBD market is facing steep declines as regulatory uncertainty and the rise of unregulated, competing products sow confusion for consumers. Major companies like Charlotte’s Web and Village Farms are reporting significant revenue drops, with industry leaders calling for unified action to address the regulatory limbo hindering growth.
Future of Intoxicating Hemp Doesn’t Look Bright (Harris Silwoski)
Intoxicating hemp products are facing mounting pressure from all sides, with states, local governments, and the federal government moving toward tighter regulations and bans. As the 2024 Farm Bill looms, alongside increasing enforcement actions and legal challenges, the future of these products looks uncertain at best.
Under pressure from weed consumers, California regulators hustle to test for pesticides (LA Times)
California’s legal cannabis market is under fire as revelations of widespread contamination in products, particularly vapes and pre-rolls, have shaken consumer confidence. Following a recent investigation, state regulators are facing criticism for their failure to keep contaminated products off shelves, while some leading dispensaries have launched their own testing initiatives to address safety concerns amid growing pressure for stronger oversight.
More Noteworthy Reading
CBG Tested in First Human Clinical Trial (ScienceAlert)
A recent study of CBG (cannabigerol) shows promise in reducing anxiety and stress, according to a recent human trial. While early findings suggest potential benefits, researchers urge caution, emphasizing the need for more studies to substantiate the growing hype around CBG and its effects, similar to the early trajectory of CBD.
Read more
View more in Endocannabinoid System
Research Round-Up
Study of Environmental Impact of Outdoor Cannabis Growing Practices (PubMed)
As the cannabis industry grows, concerns about the environmental impacts of production have intensified. While indoor cultivation has been studied, little is known about outdoor cannabis farming, which may require significant fertilizer inputs. This study identifies reduced-fertilizer regimes that optimize flower yields while minimizing environmental harm, such as greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. Findings reveal that outdoor cannabis production can emit 50 times less carbon than indoor cultivation, highlighting the importance of these insights for policymakers, producers, and consumers in legal cannabis markets.
Study: THC May Mitigate Adverse Effects of High Fructose (PubMed)
A recent study explored how a high-fructose diet impacts intestinal health in rats and whether THC, a key cannabinoid, can reverse these effects. The study found that while fructose consumption did not cause weight gain, it led to inflammation and disrupted cell proliferation in the intestine. THC treatment, however, reduced inflammation and improved cell balance.
A heartfelt thank you to all of the CBD brands whose generous support allows Project CBD to shine a light on the research and reporting that matters most to the plant medicine community. We are grateful for your partnership.
