CBD News

CV Sciences Launches Two Gummies

CV Sciences launched PlusCBD Calm and Sleep, two gummies that support healthy stress responses and sleep cycles. The gummies contain no artificial flavoring or sweeteners.

Each PlusCBD Calm gummy contains 10 mg of CBD derived from sustainable hemp and two neurologically active amino acids: 5-HTP and L-Theanine. Studies have shown that 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a direct precursor for synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which may facilitate calm feelings and a positive mood. L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that has been extensively researched for stress management. The company said the synergy between L-Theanine and 5-HTP, together with PlusCBD, promotes a balanced brain chemistry, which may help consumers manage occasional anxiety that can result from life’s stressors.

PlusCBD Sleep gummies also contain 10 mg of CBD, in addition to such active ingredients as melatonin, magnolia bark and lemon balm, which work together to support a healthy circadian rhythm. Preclinical studies have shown that compounds found in magnolia bark extract may soothe nerves through the modulation of certain neurotransmitters, including GABA, and also work with the endocannabinoid system to support relaxation. Lemon balm also contains active compounds that support the GABA neurotransmitter system, which studies have linked to promoting restful sleep.

The San Diego-based company noted that its latest offerings are third-party tested and formulated by trusted experts to ensure each product contains meaningful amounts of active ingredients that are scientifically researched. The new gummies are available from the Plus CBD website and will be at retailers later this year.

Medterra and Acreage Announce Joint Venture

Acreage Holdings, a vertically integrated, multistate operator of cannabis licenses and assets in the United States, announced that its subsidiary, Universal Hemp, reached an agreement with Medterra CBD. The partnership allows Acreage Holdings to tap into Medterra’s innovation pipeline, high-quality CBD and significant e-commerce platform for immediate nationwide distribution.

Medterra subsidiary Five Farms CBD will develop a full-spectrum CBD collection under The Botanist, an Acreage Holdings brand. The companies said the partnership marks the first time in the cannabis industry that a CBD and a publicly traded cannabis brand have collaborated. J.P. Larsen, co-founder of Medterra and president of Five Farms, said this is “the future of CBD and cannabis companies.”

Acreage will license The Botanist brand to Five Farms, which will manufacture, market and sell The Botanist branded CBD products through Medterra’s e-commerce platform. The Botanist branded CBD is expected to be available in the second half of 2021.

Canopy Growth Rolls Out Sparkling CBD Beverage Brand

Canopy Growth, which makes Martha Stewart CBD brand gummies, softgels and oil drops, has entered the U.S. CBD beverage category with the launch of Quatreau, a premium ready-to-drink CBD-infused sparkling water. The Smiths Falls, Ontario-based company is launching the beverages in the United States, following the successful 2020 rollout of the sparkling waters in Canada, where Quatreau is now the top-selling ready-to-drink CBD beverage.

Quatreau sparkling water contains 20 mg of premium U.S. grown hemp-based CBD. With an MSRP of $3.99 per 12-oz. can, Quatreau is a functional zero-sugar drink that delivers a natural, low calorie beverage alternative at an accessible price point, the company said. Quatreau CBD-infused Sparkling Water is available in four flavors: Cucumber + Mint, Passionfruit + Guava, Ginger + Lime and Blueberry + Acai. The company noted that the launch of the Quatreau brand in America coincides with an astrological event known as the Age of Aquarius, which refers to the zodiac’s water bearer. To support the launch, Quatreau partnered with celebrity astrologist Susan Miller of Astrology Zone on a digital and social campaign.

Valens Enters U.S. CBD Market with Green Roads Acquisition

Canadian cannabis company Valens is entering the U.S. CBD market with the acquisition of CBD product maker Green Roads and its manufacturing subsidiary. The Kelowna, British Columbia-based company is putting up $40 million in cash and stock upfront for Green Roads, with an additional $20 million milestone payment available once the business achieves certain financial milestones.

With the acquisition, Valens gains an established manufacturing and distribution platform, as well as Green Roads’ leadership team, which has deep knowledge of the cannabis CPG market in the United States. Green Roads currently is one of the largest CBD brands in the U.S. by market share. The company said the acquisition also would help strengthen its position in Canada, bringing Green Roads products to the country and unlocking new revenue.

“The combination of Valens and Green Roads makes for an unbeatable team, diversified distribution network, and unparalleled product development and manufacturing platform, which we expect will provide us the footprint to become one of the biggest players in the global cannabis health-and-wellness market,” said Tyler Robson, CEO, co-founder and chair of Valens.

In addition to gaining ground in two countries, Valens said buying Green Roads grows its global exposure, with the companies offering their products in 11 countries collectively. The company is engaged in late-stage discussions about entering Latin America, the Asia-Pacific region and Europe.

Valens said it is expecting to invest some $10 million into Green Roads to capitalize on anticipated growth in the U.S. CBD market and develop Green Roads’ leading e-commerce platform. It also hopes to expand its retail distribution, sales and marketing resources.