June 2024 National Cannabis News: Unveiling Recent Research Highlights

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter (now X) to get the most recent edition when it’s published.?

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In this month’s national news update, we’re exploring some notable developments in cannabis research, including its social impacts and upcoming studies focused on specific product types. Additionally, we’ll take a look at the market dynamics surrounding cannabis beverages and edibles, two high growth market segments that are popular with a wide range of consumers. Read on to learn more about some of the headlines affecting the cannabis industry nationwide.

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Rolling paper company seeks volunteers to smoke pre-rolls?

Cannabis rolling paper company DaySavers is seeking 200 volunteers aged 21 and older to participate in their “Science of Smokeability” study. Volunteers will receive $4.20 as a stipend to smoke two free pre-rolls (shipped at the company’s cost) and provide feedback on their experience.?

In partnership with the Cannabis Research Coalition and the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), DaySavers aims to investigate how different cultivation and processing methods influence the quality and consistency of the smoking experience. Over a two-year period, researchers will analyze laboratory tests and consumer feedback to refine cultivation practices and overall smoke quality.?

“This research not only has the potential to improve product quality and consistency but also promote sustainability, profitability, and a deeper scientific understanding of cannabis as a medicinal and recreational product,” the company said in a press release.?

Study finds older medical patients experience improvement in health and well-being?

A new study published in the journal Drugs and Aging highlighted promising findings regarding the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis for older adults. The research indicates that cannabis products have the potential to significantly improve health, well-being, sleep, and mood among older patients – mainly related to pain severity and chronic pain.?

The study was conducted by a five-person research team and addressed what authors called “a common methodological practice of excluding those aged over 65 years from clinical trials.” Of the products prescribed during the study, patients over 64 were “more likely to receive CBD dominant oil and less likely to receive THC dominant flower by prescription.”

“International evidence that older individuals may be the fastest-growing increase in the use of medical marijuana, coupled with their frequent exclusion from controlled trials, indicates a growing need for real-world evidence to assess the effectiveness and safety of these drugs for older individuals,” reads the report.?

College enrollment increases in states with legal cannabis?

A recent study analyzing college enrollment trends in states that have legalized recreational cannabis reveals an impact on high education participation. According to the findings, the adoption of recreational cannabis laws increases college enrollments by approximately 9%, with no adverse effects on degree completion or graduation rates.?

The study also highlighted that legalization can enhance colleges’ competitiveness, attracting out-of-state students who perceive legal cannabis as a positive amenity. Researchers found no evidence that recreational cannabis laws affect college affordability, education quality, or enrollment rates for in-state students.?

“The results indicate that both women’s and men’s enrollments rose significantly after the fourth year of the first dispensary opening,” the report says, noting that the delay could be due to the time it takes for students to decide on and apply to college, as well as the often slow rollout of cannabis retail markets.

Cannabis beverage sales grow more slowly than edibles sales?

Cannabis beverage sales have grown more slowly than the total edibles category between Q1 2022 and Q1 2024, according to recent data from BDSA reported by Cannabis Business Times. In Q1 2024, cannabis beverage sales generated $50 million in total across BDSA-tracked markets (AZ, CA, CO, FL, IL, MA, MD, MI, MO, NV, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA). That represents a 6% share of total edible sales, and a 1% share of total cannabis sales. Comparatively, in Q1 2023, beverage sales totaled $48M across those markets. BDSA forecasts that cannabis beverages will maintain approximately 1% of total cannabis sales across legal markets moving forward.

Cannabis gummies continue to dominate the edible market, consistently outpacing other types of edibles in consumer preferences. Three-quarters (75%) of medical and recreational edible consumers have enjoyed gummies in the past six months, while just 8% of the same group report drinking cannabis beverages or teas during the same period.?

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Continue exploring trends with CWCBExpo?

As more national research and trends unfold, staying informed and connected is essential for industry professionals and consumers alike. Cannabis World Congress Business Expo (CWCBExpo) is the premier event for staying updated on the latest developments and networking with industry leaders. Join us next year and follow us on socials to immerse yourself in the forefront of cannabis and stay connected within the industry.