Gone are the days when CBD was solely associated with tinctures and vapes. Today, there are more innovative ways to receive the benefits of this natural compound, and one of the most exciting advancements is the emergence of CBD-infused food.
In a 2024 report by Forbes, this table shows that edible CBD is now the most common way to find it.
This guide equips you with all the essential knowledge to navigate the world of CBD food. Whether you're a seasoned CBD user or curious about exploring its potential, this comprehensive breakdown will help you make more informed dietary choices.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the hemp plant. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD doesn't produce a "high" but has been linked to a range of potential benefits, including promoting relaxation, managing anxiety, and reducing inflammation.
Traditionally, CBD was primarily consumed through tinctures and vapes. Tinctures are a tried and tested delivery method that many early adopters of CBD favour. Vaping, though in fashion at this moment, has its own set of health issues because of the vaping process.
However, CBD food offers a convenient and enjoyable alternative. Here's what makes this a compelling choice:
No more measuring droplets or enduring potentially harsh flavours - CBD food is designed to wrap the CBD in deliciousness, and in a reliable pre-measured way that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine.
Unlike inhaled CBD, edibles offer sustained release, allowing your body to absorb it over a longer period. Absorption in this manner creates conditions for higher bioavailability - essentially mixing in with the food as it is digesting in the stomach.
CBD edibles now come in a wide array of foods and drinks with many flavours and textures, making them a delightful way to experience the potential benefits of CBD. Like many complementary health products, the longer-term benefits of consuming CBD are generally gained by being consistent. While there are certainly short-term gains to be had, effects such as reduced inflammation and improved joint health or treatment for anxiety may require longer-term use.
This can become monotonous when ingesting CDB via the same means. CBD-infused food opens us up to a whole new range of ways to consume and keep it interesting.
Let's delve into the specifics:
What's in it? CBD-infused food is crafted by incorporating high-quality CBD oil extracts into various food and beverage products. These extracts are typically derived from hemp plants grown specifically for their rich CBD content.
THC-Free or Full Spectrum? This depends on the brand and product. Some brands use ‘CBD isolate’, which has had all THC removed. Others use a ‘full spectrum’ extract that will contain trace amounts of THC (usually less than 0.3%), potentially offering an "entourage effect" where various cannabinoids work synergistically.
Potency Matters: The amount of CBD in food products varies significantly. Look for labels that display the milligram (mg) content per serving. This allows you to tailor your intake based on your individual needs and preferences. It's really important to understand the potency of the products you buy. This can help you personalise your CBD experience. Start with a low dose and gradually increase based on your desired results.
Remember: Regulations regarding CBD in food vary by country. In the UK, CBD products are classified as novel foods, requiring specific authorisation. It's vital to choose reputable brands committed to transparency and rigorous quality control - this way you can be guaranteed better results for your effort.
“Replace some of the things you are consuming anyway with CBD infused food and drink”
Now comes the fun part – choosing what to eat and drink. We have picked out a few really good options for incorporating CBD food into your diet.
Cheerful Buddha expertly integrates CBD into your coffee. This premium blend seamlessly combines ethically sourced, rich, aromatic coffee with a calming dose of broad-spectrum CBD (25mg per cup). It allows you to kickstart your day feeling energised and focused, without the jitters and with the potential for added stress relief.
We have also combined the luxurious indulgence of ethically produced, flavourful dark chocolate with high-grade full-spectrum CBD. This sweet treat contains 15mg of CBD per serving. Savour the rich, exotic flavour and allow the potential calming properties of CBD to help you unwind and de-stress, and give those happy hormones a boost too.
Cheerful Buddha offers premium 10% CBD oil drops. Drops are versatile because they can be taken sublingually or added to recipes, which is great if you want to experiment with dose levels in your diet. Blended with natural essential oils and carried in MCT coconut oil, they are delicious - without the typical CBD aftertaste. These oils are vegan-friendly, non-GMO, and THC-free, as verified by third-party lab testing. They are also certified safe on the Novel Foods list.
Remember, CBD edibles can take longer to take effect than inhaled methods. Allow 1-2 hours to feel the potential benefits after consumption.
Experiment with different CBD-infused food and beverage options from various brands to discover what works best for you. Consider factors like dosage, flavour profile, and desired effects when making your selections.
It's essential to choose reputable brands that prioritise quality control and transparent labelling. Look for companies that use organic ingredients, source their hemp from reputable farms, and conduct third-party lab testing to ensure the potency and purity of their CBD products. We take great care to achieve the highest most ethical standards in all aspects of production, from sourcing, manufacturing and packaging of our products. To learn more about us and our practices read our story.
View CBD food as a potential tool to support your overall well-being. By taking a personalised approach and choosing reputable brands, you can replace some of the things you are consuming anyway with CBD-infused food and drink - seamlessly integrating it into your daily routine.
What foods are naturally high in CBD?
Hemp seeds are a natural source of CBD, but their concentration is very low. Most CBD-infused food products use concentrated CBD oil extracts for a reliable and consistent dose.
What does CBD food mean?
CBD food refers to any food or beverage product that has been infused with CBD oil extracts. This allows for convenient and enjoyable consumption of CBD. It is considered a ‘Novel Food’ and as such sellers need permission to sell, and meet certain requirements.
What are the benefits of eating CBD?
Research suggests potential benefits like promoting relaxation, managing anxiety, and reducing inflammation. Research is continuing globally, to uncover more about this fascinating compound.
Does CBD food work?
Anecdotal evidence very strongly suggests potential benefits. Many studies show positive results from ingesting CBD and using CBD topically. The effectiveness of CBD food can vary depending on individual factors like metabolism and the chosen product. Consult your healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine.
What are the side effects of CBD?
CBD is generally risk-free, but potential side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhoea. It can also interact with certain medications.
This guide serves as a starting point. It's crucial to conduct your own research and consult with your doctor before incorporating CBD food into your wellness plan.
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