A new Texas-wide survey shows that approximately 40% of all respondents currently, or have previously, used Cannabidol (CBD) products, compared to the national average of 14% reported by Gallup in August. In addition, of the 40%, an overwhelming 85% reported that CBD had improved their condition. The survey, conducted by The Hemp Know, was presented Thursday, September 19 during the Texas African-American Chamber of Commerce (TAAACC) annual conference in Austin, Texas.
CBD is one of many chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant and can be extracted from hemp or marijuana. Texas HB 1325, signed by Governor Greg Abbott in April, allows existing retailers to sell nonconsumable hemp products, such as hemp-derived CBD, that contains no more than .3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive chemical responsible for most of marijuana's psychological effects. CBD containing greater than .3% THC is illegal in the state of Texas.
While CBD was officially green-lighted less than six months ago, the survey shows that 68% of respondents are familiar with CBD and approximately one in three have or currently use CBD. Of this group, the most common conditions for use were anxiety (49%), pain (48%), stress (43%) and sleep/insomnia (33%).*
The survey also reveals that the opportunity and demand for CBD is ever growing. Off the 63% that have not personally used CBD products, 60% are interested in learning more and 29% stated they are likely to try a CBD product in the next 12 months.
“Throughout Texas, there’s an influx of retailers adding CBD to their product portfolio – from small shops to large chains. While early-adoption in Texas is impressive, retailers should not rely on this alone. For the next, and likely most sustainable wave of partakers, especially for older consumers, education is key,” said Founder and President of The Hemp Know Damon Logan. “As expected, there are still lots of unanswered questions about CBD. Is it legal, is it safe, what are the long-term effects, how to decide on the best product?”
“The opportunity for CBD retailers and manufactures is to educate the public. The responsibility of Texas CBD consumers is to do their research,” said Logan.”
“Education should be at the core of all plans for CBD retailers. In addition to educating about the proven benefits of CBD, it is important to help consumers understand what to look for and what questions to ask when purchasing CBD,” said Marcus Glenn President of Battle Buds Hemp, a CBD brand in Houston created and inspired by Glenn, whose father suffers from PTSD. “One misnomer, especially as more stores shelf CBD, is that all CBD is created equal. That is just not true,” said Glenn.
As consumer interest in CBD continues to grow, here are three key recommendations for consumers interested in trying CBD.
Know the laws associated with CBD. Currently, only hemp-derived nonconsumable CBD with less than .3% THC is legal in Texas. Ask for the Certificate of Analysis (COA). CBD is not FDA regulated, which leaves little to no accountability for accuracy in labeling. In fact, a study published in 2017 found that 70% of CBD sold online was inaccurately labeled. Find a reputable and knowledgeable distributor/retailer and ask for the COA (simply put the CBD lab report). The COA is a comprehensive analysis of the chemical compounds in the product – including CBD, THC, metals and pesticides. COAs should come from an independent third party lab not associated with the retailer/distributor, include a QR code or alternative method by which you can authenticate the testing and be current. In addition, the chemical analysis on the COA should align with what is on the CBD label. If a COA is not available, select another retailer/distributor.Hemp responsibly. While there are many documented – anecdotal and research-based – benefits of CBD, talk to a medical professional about your plans. Also, consider visiting a dispensary or CBD-focused retailer to learn more about recommended dosages and the different types of CBD products available. These outlets typically offer a wealth of knowledge.
“We believe wholeheartedly in the benefits of CBD, but it is incumbent on both CBD retailers and consumers to hemp responsibly,” said Logan.
The survey was distributed via email and completed by 166 randomly sampled adults, ages 18+ living in Texas. The margin of sampling error is ± 8% at the 95% confidence level. The survey was administered to evaluate the adoption and awareness of hemp-derived CBD in the state of Texas. Visit thehempknow.com to request the complete report.
*Percentages exceeds 100% due to multiple responses.