FDA Sends Warning Letters to Companies Illegally Selling CBD-Infused Products + The Rise of Alcohol Free Beverages – Xtalks Life Food Podcast Ep. 88

Last week, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sent out warning letters to five companies illegally selling CBD-infused food and beverage products. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the contents of the warning letters and the FDA’s rules regarding CBD. Currently, the use of CBD in food and beverage products is an unapproved food additive in the US. the agency also cited safety concerns regarding accidental or overconsumption of CBD, as well as drug interactions. Of particular concern to the FDA are dosage formats that appeal to children such as gummies, hard candies and cookies.  Perhaps warning letters were sent out to these five companies since four of them sell CBD-infused candies or gummies. The team wonders why the FDA doesn’t take stricter regulatory action when it comes to CBD and whether there are any benefits of consuming CBD-infused products. 

Also, in this episode, Sydney talks about the rise of alcohol free beverages. As the desire for no- and low-alcohol beverages increases and producers are responding to consumer demands, the industry is taking note and investing in products aimed at consumers keen to celebrate on their own terms. Since almost half of drinkers said they are trying to reduce their alcohol consumption right now, and 52 percent of them are replacing alcohol with alcohol free beverages, the non-alcoholic beer, wine and cocktails category is surging in popularity. Some of the biggest players in the beverage industry are making moves into the non-alcoholic market, which is estimated to reach $538 million by 2026. The team has mixed feelings when it comes to alcohol free beverages, but all agree that they promote inclusivity and reduce the stigma of abstaining from alcohol. 

Read the full articles here:

Companies Illegally Selling CBD-Infused Food Receive FDA Warning Letters

Alcohol Free Beverages on the Rise Ahead of Holiday Season

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