A Novel hemp-based tea using MCT oil
BEVERAGESSUSTAINABILITY
The Hemp Tea Company, a food technology innovator based in Montpelier, Virginia, has recently filed a patent for a novel steepable organic substance. This invention integrates cannabis and other organic materials into a format similar to traditional tea, aiming to provide a more accessible way to incorporate functional compounds like cannabinoids into everyday beverages.
The use of cannabis in food and beverage products has grown significantly in recent years, but the incorporation of cannabinoids into water-based formats like tea remains a technical challenge. Cannabinoids, being fat-soluble, require a lipid medium for effective absorption in the body. Conventional products often struggle to provide a stable, user-friendly solution that combines bioavailability with ease of preparation. The Hemp Tea Company’s new invention solves these issues by offering a steepable product that uses a unique combination of organic materials and lipids, making cannabinoid delivery both practical and effective.
The process outlined in their patent begins with blending organic material, such as cannabis, with a lipid like MCT oil. This mixture undergoes heating and agitation in a dehydrator, where decarboxylation occurs. Decarboxylation is a necessary chemical reaction that activates cannabinoids, ensuring their effectiveness. Once the mixture cools, it is ground into a fine consistency and combined with powdered lipids to create the finished steepable substance. This final product can be used like any traditional tea, allowing consumers to steep it in hot water for a convenient and flavorful experience.
The patent also emphasizes the flexibility of this innovation. Beyond cannabis, the product can incorporate other natural ingredients like herbs, spices, and flavors, making it versatile for a range of uses. For instance, combinations with chamomile, green tea, or peppermint could appeal to a variety of consumer preferences. The use of powdered lipids, such as MCT powder, enhances not only the delivery of cannabinoids but also the overall nutritional value of the beverage.
This patent has practical implications for both consumers and the broader food and beverage industry. For consumers, it offers an easy-to-use alternative to oils, tinctures, and edibles, which can be less convenient or require precise dosing. With a steepable product, users can enjoy a familiar preparation method while benefiting from the functional properties of cannabinoids.
As the cannabis and functional beverage markets continue to expand, The Hemp Tea Company’s invention could play a key role in shaping their future. It provides a scalable model for introducing cannabinoids into beverages while maintaining the flavor and usability of traditional tea products. Additionally, the process could be adapted to include other botanicals, creating a wide array of health-focused beverage options.