Navigating CBD Flavors
High growth in the Marketplace
CBD acceptance in the United States continues to rise, as does the market demand for CBD-containing products ($300 million according to marketwatch.com’s recent estimate). Products range from snack cakes, cookies and bars, candies and lollipops, ice cream, teas, and carbonated beverages. With so many different options to choose from and growing popularity, there is a projected market growth to $1.3 billion by 2024. However, getting into this scene and creating a great-tasting product can be tricky. Luckily, Northwestern Extract Company is here to help!
What’s that Funky Smell?
Cannabis’ unique and distinguishable odor is caused by a class of highly aromatic chemical compounds called terpenes. Terpenes are in no way related to the effects of THC or CBD and are perfectly safe for human consumption. In fact, terpenes are found throughout nature and are produced by a variety of plants and insects as a type of natural immunity and defense from predation due to their intense smell and bitter taste (at high levels). In addition to cannabis, terpenes are also vital in character recognition in a number of botanicals, such as mint, lavender, eucalyptus, and conifers (juniper, redwoods, spruce, cedar, fir, etc.). Citrus and tropical fruits also contain terpenes, although at much lower levels than in the mentioned plants, but are necessary in flavor identification. Terpenes are highly insoluble in water, and contribute to the cloudiness common in working with these profiles, most noticeably in citrus beverages.
Navigating this Tricky Scene
A common industry struggle in working with CBD is attempting to mask the naturally-occurring strong taste and smell. Instead, let nature do the hard work while you and your consumers enjoy the benefits! Take advantage of this new understanding of terpenes and where they are found in nature outside of cannabis to build a perfectly flavored CBD-containing product that actually compliments or enhances the earthy tones of terpenes. Explore the following flavor options that will blend seamlessly into your CBD-creation:
For the ultimate relaxing treat, use Lavender or Chamomile. Or cozy up with Earl Grey (made with real Bergamot), Green Tea, or Matcha Extract.
Basil and Garden Mint are both fresh-tasting and trendy; especially when paired with Blackberry, Raspberry, Strawberry, Watermelon or Lemon for zesty-twist consumers will enjoy throughout the spring and summer months. Peppermint is a classic favorite for all seasons, and blends timelessly with Chocolate, Sugar Cookie, Vanilla, or Cake Batter for a delectably sweet treat. Try in combination with our Menthol Solution for just the right amount of refreshing mouth-cool.
Spice it up with a bit of kick using our Hot Solution in combination with Cinnamon (we’ve got your Red Hot or Warm & Spicy) or Ginger (choose Fresh or Candied). Pumpkin Spice and Chai are both on-point and delicious no matter what your application.
Looking for a Tropical or Exotic flare? Try our Dragonfruit or Mangosteen for an out-of-this-world taste or stick with the favorites like Alphonso Mango, Passionfruit, Guava, or Papaya.
And of course, citrus is always the perfect combination of fresh and refreshing. We have all of your favorites (Lemon, Lime, Orange, and Tangerine) or dare to be different with the new and exciting profiles of Lemongrass, Orange Blossom, Yuzu, and Mandarin.
Whatever CBD-product you have in mind, Northwestern Extract Company has the perfect flavor to blend seamlessly into your application.
Requesting a sample of one of our flavors couldn’t be easier, just send us a sample request form. Give us a call at 1-800-466-3034 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you create the perfect CBD-containing product!
Stop by our booth at the MJ BizCon Show (December 11-13) in Las Vegas, Nevada to meet the sales team and explore our many flavor options!
