CBD and its many benefits are rapidly gaining popularity across almost all sections of consumers. With all the information and claims about CBD doing the rounds, it can be difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. 

Scientific studies have found different ways that CBD can affect people and how to include it in recipes. This article sheds light on the truth about CBD and whether or not it should be used in a professional kitchen.

How Does CBD Work?

Cannabidiol is commonly known as CBD and is mostly derived from the hemp plant. Historically speaking, CBD has got more than its fair share of a bad reputation because it is also found in marijuana. However, CBD is perfectly safe to use, and with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, it is now legal as well.

CBD is mostly used as a mild sedative and helps in reducing inflammation, pain, anxiety, insomnia, etc. CBD is also helpful in increasing appetite, lowering blood pressure and can help with the effects of chemotherapy in cancer patients. CBD’s rapid growth in popularity is down to its wide range of benefits across diverse medical problems. 

The effects of CBD remain largely unchanged irrespective of how it is used. That said, the inclusion of CBD in food is not the most common method of CBD consumption probably due to the added cost. However, including CBD in food is not a rarity either. After all, if marijuana can be included in food, then why not CBD? 

The Foods that Can Include CBD

Undoubtedly, CBD can be included in almost all foods. However, certain dishes act as better transmitters of CBD than others. For example, a solid dish that will be completely consumed will work better as a CBD carrier compared to a soup where portions are usually left in the bowl. 

When picking foods that work as good conductors of CBD it is important to pick those dishes where consumers are sure to get a specific dose of CBD. This is especially true when it comes to including CBD as listed ingredients in professional kitchens. 

Here are some that work particularly well.

Beverages

Beverages are a great way to provide interested consumers the CBD dosage they desire. Beverages are easily portable, are a great carrier as they can camouflage the original flavor of CBD, and are easily customizable to suit individual requirements. 

It’s a relatively simple task to add a dose of CBD into a customer’s order of tea or coffee while keeping it out of the drinks of those who do not want it.

Baked Food

It is no wonder that marijuana brownies are quite popular. Bite-sized baked food makes perfect carriers for CBD as the idea is to consume it completely in a single sitting. While CBD can also be included in larger baked food like cakes, or use cannabutter as an ingredient, it gets a bit more complicated in judging the exact dosage of CBD each person is getting. 

Things to Keep in Mind When Using CBD in a Professional Kitchen

Clearly Label all Dishes that Include CBD

Similar to any other supplement that may claim a medical benefit, there is also potential for side effects or may prove to be an allergen for some customers. To be on the safe side, it is always advisable to explicitly call out and label any dish that includes even a small amount of CBD. 

CBD can prove harmful for consumers suffering from kidney or liver problems as well as those already on medication to treat anxiety or blood pressure. It would be a good idea to have these interactions also listed out as part of the dish’s label for the benefit of new and returning customers. 

The staff of a professional kitchen also needs to be trained on how to simply explain the dosage, pros, and cons of dishes that have CBD in them. This will help nip any questions and concerns in the bud and educate your customers when they place their order while also boosting customer confidence, loyalty, and sales.

Use Only Good Quality CBD

As with any other ingredient sourced for a professional kitchen, it is important to ensure that the CBD used is of the highest quality and is labeled properly. As things stand today, CBD is not regulated by the FDA, therefore if you’re managing a professional kitchen, you will need to conduct your own market research. 

All CBD producers need to include a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for their products. This COA will help kitchen managers control the quality of the product they allow into their kitchen, and subsequently, into their dishes. 

CBD Can be Included as an Add On

Offering CBD as an add-on or a condiment for different freshly cooked dishes is a great way to provide customers an additional thrill while giving them their required dose of CBD. Bonus points if this is done in a unique way to ensure your customer’s continued loyalty. 

Keep in mind though, all such dishes should also have a ‘normal’ or ‘CBD-free’ version for those not interested in CBD. 

Disclaimer

CBD products that are derived from Hemp and contain less than the prescribed .3 percent of THC are legal per federal law. However, certain state laws may still deem it illegal.

CBD products that are derived from Marijuana are illegal per federal law but remain legal under the laws of certain states. 

It is advisable to check the appropriate state laws in case of travel. It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not approved by the FDA.