CBD-infused sparkling water is coming to gas stations and convenience stores across the western United States this year as Mountjoy Sparkling finalized an agreement with Green Reef Distributing.

Mountjoy Sparkling offers two cannabinoid infused sparkling water products – one with THC and one with CBD – in a variety of flavors. The percentage of cannabinoids in Mountjoy Sparkling’s THC beverage and in the new CBD beverage is 10 mg.

The CBD-infused sparkling water was launched this month. The THC version of Mountjoy Sparkling has been available through dispensaries and delivery services throughout California including Riverside Wellness, Harborside, Ketama, Delta Delivery, Megan’s Organics, and Santa Barbara Care Center.

In a recent interview, Mountjoy Sparkling Water CEO Alex Mountjoy said in an industry that is producing increasingly familiar products, his brand aims to produce high quality consumer goods at the level of national brands.

With wider distribution, the company anticipates national advertising. “We are anticipating being able to launch national ads as our new beverage makes its way in to gas stations and convenience stores across the western U.S,” Mountjoy said.

“Mountjoy CBD is a full-spectrum product derived from hemp, and, unlike THC, does not evoke a psychoactive response when consumed. Mountjoy’s unique process creates an interactive synergy or ‘entourage effect’ that magnifies the therapeutic benefits of the hemp plant’s individual components. The new beverage will be offered in natural, orange and peach flavors,” according to a release.

“We are excited to launch Mountjoy Sparkling into the marketplace,” said Nick Gagliardi, CEO of Green Reef Distributing, Inc. “We, at Green Reef, strive to find the best products in cannabis and bring them to market. We strongly feel Mountjoy is a best of class beverage company and believe the consumers will love the taste and quality of products.”

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The cannabis industry is a catalyst for innovation. Industry leaders keep the cannabis space on the cutting edge as companies encourage new developments in biotechnology, marketing, consumer goods and more.

Here are the areas to watch for cannabis industry developments in 2018.

1. Outside industries

Industries outside the cannabis space are taking notice of opportunities to edge in – a huge talking point from MJBizCon 2017, where speaker Jeanne Sullivan told attendees “These companies are not going to miss out,” referring to the 2017 industry entrances of Scotts Miracle-Gro, liquor distributor Constellation Brands and Netflix.

Beer and alcohol industry – American-based Constellation Brands, the firm behind major beer brands Corona and Modelo, purchased a 10 percent stake in Canadian cannabis giant Canopy Growth Corporation.

At a National Beer Wholesalers Association meeting, Heineken USA CEO Ronald den Elzen mentioned the potential for cannabis to compete with the beer market, saying “Wine and spirits are not sitting still and marijuana is being legalized in many states across the country. We have to act now and we have to do it together.”

Packaging industry – At the 2017 PACK EXPO, Presto Products Co.’s Todd Meussling said “Whether it’s medical or adult use – one statistic I came across that’s very interesting is that by 2020, the cannabis industry will be at approximately $17 billion. To put that in perspective for packagers, the natural cheese market right now is at about $12 billion.

“So there’s — outside of medical — 20,000 commercial uses for cannabis. When you look at it from a packaging standpoint, every one of those products is going to have an application.”

Renewable energy industry – Renewable energy companies are beginning to address the challenges cannabis growers and manufacturers face – as well as opportunities in the hemp industry. “We can go green while growing green,” said Devin Cooley, SunTrac president and COO. Tempe, Arizona-based SunTrac is solar-powered thermal hybrid air conditioning system that uses 30-40 percent less electricity to drop operating costs and keep space cool.

2. Big Data & POS Software

Software companies realized the need for specialized POS software for the cannabis industry in order to maintain compliance with state regulations. Now the race is on to create the most all-encompassing software that dispensaries, growers and manufacturers can use to automate seed-to-sale rules that require careful tracking of all cannabis products.

One such company, Los Angeles-based Pyrotree Inc, provides an all-in-one service called WebJoint that operators can use to generate data on point of sale, inventory, distribution and more for required reporting to government agencies. In 2017 WebJoint announced closing a $1.5 million funding round.

Data scientists have realized the potential to collect priceless big data from the cannabis industry, which will allow companies and marketers to understand their consumers and cater to their needs better than ever before. Data companies can also help growers and manufacturers improve and maintain their systems.

A new data company, Data 420, is “owned by the industry,” with 43 companies collecting data on the industry since November. “We’re not a company – we’re a movement. We want to help and to do that, we need data,” said founder Dave Hwang.

3. Banking

Banking challenges remain an important hurdle for cannabis companies and dispensaries, who are still cash-only in many states. Banks will often refuse to open accounts or close existing accounts, fearing federal backlash.

While many are skeptical about cryptocurrency, it’s popularly touted as a potential answer to the banking problem. Some dispensaries are using BitCoin through services like POSaBIT kiosks, where a customer can use their credit card to buy Bitcoin and redeem it in the store.

“Potcoin, which advertises itself as a secure solution for the cannabis industry’s banking problem, has resorted to publicity stunts — like sending Dennis Rodman to North Korea — to drum up enthusiasm for the currency, though it’s worth noting that the coin gained 11.99% since Tuesday to hit $0.33,” Business Insider reported.

California treasurer John Chiang proposed creating a state bank that can deposit cannabis businesses’ tax money for them, but business owners would still need to find solutions for other payments.

4. Marketing

The cannabis industry presents unique challenges to marketers, as the federal Schedule 1 classification prevents mainstream advertising of cannabis.

There will be more cannabis TV advertising to come in 2018. Through January, commercials for CBD oil and cannabis-based wellness supplements are running on over 40 network channels, in 24 countries. It’s the first time Time Warner Cable has approved cannabis product ads to appear on its channels.

In 2017 marketing companies focused on re-branding the cannabis industry, stepping away from pot leaf bikini imagery in favor of sleek, clean design that demonstrates the industry’s futuristic outlook.

Inspired by the young women of Instagram, Jane West designed cannabis products to look familiar, like makeup compacts. “The objects we use on a daily basis, in part, define who we are. I couldn’t find anything that represented me. I’m a daily cannabis smoker and we want to have a more sophisticated experience on a daily basis,” West said of her product design.

Guillermo Bravo, CEO of dispensary marketing company Foottraffik, said “When designing products and apparel, we need to grow up. A great example is the PAX Era vape pen; it’s small, sexy, discreet and efficient. It’s moving the industry forward and normalizing cannabis to be part of everyday life.”

5. Biotechnology

Biotech developments for cannabinoid medicines in 2017 included new drug delivery innovations and foundational research.

Oral cannabinoid sleep disorder medicines that dissolve in patients’ cheeks are being developed by CURE Pharmaceutical and Therapix Biosciences. AXIM® Biotechnologies, Inc. is developing cannabidiol (CBD)-based chewing gum.

Another new cannabinoid medicine can be successfully administered via a topical gel lens into the eye.

InMed CEO CEO Eric Adams said “GW Pharmaceutical, one of the leaders in the cannabis biotech industry, has one drug approved and they’re on the cusp of their second approved for various types of epilepsy. Zynerba has multiple Phase 2 trials either completed or underway. There’s a lot of headway being made and it’s an exciting space to be in right now.”

In 2018, biotech companies will complete trials that could inspire agencies like the FDA and AMA to review their policies on cannabis.

6. Consumer goods

Anticipating a booming recreational market in 2018, cannabis businesses are developing quick-selling consumer goods for a larger market. Cannabis products centered around lifestyle and wellness will continue to appear.

Alex Mountjoy, CEO of cannabis-infused Mountjoy Sparkling Water, said “Given what we’ve seen, there’s a strong rationale underlying cannabis as a healthy lifestyle product that is indisputable, but it might take a while to realize its full potential. Cannabis consumer goods should be available as interstate commerce.”

New cannabis-based cosmetic products are also anticipated. “Beyond the pharmaceutical market, we have the cosmetic market where it can be used in skin products, in hair products, in skin ointment,” said Kirsten Velasco, director of Illinois Women in Cannabis.

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A California cannabis industry bowling tournament funded one patient’s CBD oil this Christmas.

The Big Lebongski Bowling Tournament series bowlers earned $4.20 a strike for cannabis charities on December 17 at Bowlero Mar Vista in Los Angeles. Eighteen cannabis industry bowlers competed in the Supreme Organics sponsored event, earning $249.90 for charities CannaKids and Marine Qweens.

Tracy Ryan, CEO of Cannakids, said “This is amazing! Thanks so much guys! 100% of this money will be donated to a patient in need as a Christmas gift so they have money for their oils!” Supreme Organics will be donating the money to CannaKids.

California-based charity CannaKids supplies CBD oil to adults and kids, specializing in pediatric cancer, autism and epilepsy. “We are so appreciative to this incredible organization for their generosity towards our patients,” said Ryan. “So many families suffer extreme financial hardships when their child is stricken with disease, and it’s events like this that allow us to continue to provide free medicine to those in need.”

Marine Qweenz is an organization whose mission is to educate, empower, and inspire those suffering from the residuals of serving in the military.

The  winning team Edibles List Magazine claimed The Little Lebongski bowling trophy plus each team member scored a nifty bowling pin pipe. The next tournament takes place  January 27, 2018 at Bowlero Woodland Hills.

The victorious squad is also invited to The Big Lebongski Tournament of Champions on April 22 in Burbank, California – where the grand championship team gets to take home The Big Lebongski trophy.

Before the final tournament this spring, the bowling league has a mystery to solve. The Big Lebongski Touring Bowling Tournament series trophy was stolen last week, in a scenario eerily similar to the rug heist in The Big Lebowski.  A police report was filed with the Mission Hills California police department.

A reward is being offered for the trophy. Michael Hurt, CEO of tournament sponsor Supreme Organics, said “We will give anyone who provides information that leads to the safe return of the relic a year-long supply of Supreme Organics products — as long, of course, the individual possesses a valid California doctor’s recommendation.”

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A California cannabis industry bowling tournament will earn $4.20 a strike for cannabis charities this weekend. But their trophy was stolen.

The Big Lebongski Touring Bowling Tournament series trophy was stolen, in a scenario eerily similar to the rug heist in The Big Lebowski.  A police report was filed with the Mission Hills California police department.

The California-touring The Big Lebongski Bowling Tournament series, presented by Supreme Organics, takes place 9 p.m. December 17 at Bowlero Mar Vista in Los Angeles. Bowlers will have the opportunity to raise money for CannaKids and Marine Qweens, earning $4.20 a strike and half as much for a spare.

 The trophy was stolen from the trunk of a vehicle under the cloak of night. Gary “Spacey” Lane, tournament commissioner, said “It’s a terrible feeling to find one’s car ransacked. But when I discovered that The Big Lebongski was swiped, it was like experiencing an ultimate buzz kill.”

A reward is being offered for the trophy. Michael Hurt, CEO of tournament sponsor Supreme Organics, said “We will give anyone who provides information that leads to the safe return of the relic a year-long supply of Supreme Organics products — as long, of course, the individual possesses a valid California doctor’s recommendation.

“Considering that its coolness factor is off the charts, it’s highly likely that The Big Lebongski will turn up at someone’s toking table somewhere sometime soon.  The good news  – at least we haven’t received a bloodied, severed pinky toe with a ransom note,” Hurt said.

Anyone who has information can contact the company via Instagram: @supremeorganics.   

The Big Lebongski was crafted by Jim Embescia from Los Angeles Glassblowing.  The trophy/bong is a see-through, glass-blown, bowling pin replica standing 15 inches tall and weighing approximately sixteen pounds.

The Big Lebongski trophy is envied as much as The Stanley Cup, Lane said. In year two, it was won by a team called Girl Scout OGs, after a popular strain.

This is year three for the cannabis industry bowling leagues and the first for The Big Lebongski Tournament. It’s also the first time they’ve bowled for charity.

California-based charity CannaKids supplies CBD oil to adults and kids, specializing in pediatric cancer, autism and epilepsy. “We are so appreciative to this incredible organization for their generosity towards our patients,” said Tracy Ryan, CannaKids CEO. “So many families suffer extreme financial hardships when their child is stricken with disease, and it’s events like this that allow us to continue to provide free medicine to those in need.”

Marine Qweenz is an organization whose mission is to educate, empower, and inspire those suffering from the residuals of serving in the military. In November, Marine Qweenz held a cannabis veterans ball.

The upcoming tournament’s winning team will claim The Little Lebongski bowling trophy plus each team member scores a nifty bowling pin pipe. The victorious squad is also invited to The Big Lebongski Tournament of Champions on April 22 in Burbank, California – where the grand championship team gets to take home The Big Lebongski trophy.

“We will be giving away The Little Lebongski trophy tomorrow night, as well as for other local tournaments.  The Big Lebongski doesn’t get awarded until the 4/20 weekend in 2018 so we do have some time to find it.  If it doesn’t turn up by then, we may have to commission another to be made,” Lane said.

Current Tournament of Champions invitees include local champions from Burbank (420pros.com), San Diego (The Biff Spliffs), San Francisco (Top Shelf Express Delivery), Sacramento (Pure Life Collective) and Orange County (Green Goddess Collective).

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A cannabis industry bowling tournament in Los Angeles next week will fundraise for two cannabis-related charities, in the spirit of the season. Bowlers will have the opportunity to raise money for CannaKids and Marine Qweens, earning $4.20 a strike and half as much for a spare.

The California-touring The Big Lebongski Bowling Tournament series, presented by Supreme Organics, takes place 9 p.m. December 17 at Bowlero Mar Vista in Los Angeles.

This is year three for the cannabis industry bowling leagues and the first for The Big Lebongski Tournament. It’s also the first time they’ve bowled for charity.

Organizer Gary Lane, who became active in the cannabis industry in the 1980s when he designed a board game called Trafficking, said “The Big Lebongski is an event I created – it’s a little bit of a reference to The Big Lebowski. The idea is to make it a cannabis industry event and raise money for charity,” Lane said.

California-based charity CannaKids supplies CBD oil to adults and kids, specializing in pediatric cancer, autism and epilepsy. “We are so appreciative to this incredible organization for their generosity towards our patients,” said Tracy Ryan, CannaKids CEO. “So many families suffer extreme financial hardships when their child is stricken with disease, and it’s events like this that allow us to continue to provide free medicine to those in need.”

Marine Qweenz is an organization whose mission is to educate, empower, and inspire those suffering from the residuals of serving in the military. In November, Marine Qweenz held a cannabis veterans ball.

“We do that through the education of cannabis, fitness, and other natural alternatives,” said Tanganyika “Tangy”,CEO/Co-Founder of Marine Qweenz, “So we are more than proud to partner with The Big Lebongski events to help complete that mission.”

Michael Hurt, CEO of edibles manufacturer Supreme Organics, is sponsoring the tournament. Hurt said,“We are also very proud to present The Big Lebongski Bowling Tournament Series and we hope that everyone out there in weedland comes out and joins in on the fun, especially with such a worthy organization benefitting from your on-lane successes.”

The Big Lebongski trophy is envied as much as The Stanley Cup, Lane said. In year two, it was won by a team called Girl Scout OGs, after a popular strain.

The upcoming tournament’s winning team will claim The Little Lebongski bowling trophy plus each team member scores a nifty bowling pin pipe. The victorious squad is also invited to The Big Lebongski Tournament of Champions on April 22 in Burbank, California – where the grand championship team gets to take home The Big Lebongski trophy.

The Big Lebongski trophy is envied as much as The Stanley Cup, Lane said. In year two, it was won by a team called Girl Scout Ogs, after a popular strain.

“Let’s give this away to the grand champions of a series,” Lane said.

Current Tournament of Champions invitees include local champions from Burbank (420pros.com), San Diego (The Biff Spliffs), San Francisco (Top Shelf Express Delivery), Sacramento (Pure Life Collective) and Orange County (Green Goddess Collective).

Lane encourages cannabis businesses to put together their own bowling teams and join in.

The team entry fee is $420, which provides a donation to one of the charities, and includes a Supreme Organics Goodie Box, 100% cotton, Hanes Beefy-T, The Big Lebongski T-shirt for as many as six team members plus all games, bowling shoes and awards. Visit the website for more information.

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Advanced software designed for the cannabis industry can automate reports to maintain compliance with regulations.

Automation can also keep cannabis business operations running smoothly and provide a seamless online customer experience.

Pyrotree Inc, a Los Angeles-based cannabis software company, provides an all-in-one service called WebJoint that operators can use to generate data on point of sale, inventory, distribution and more for required reporting to government agencies.

WebJoint recently announced closing a $1.5 million funding round led by RedTape Ventures. Since 2014, WebJoint has grown to nearly 200 retail clients, and is the only cannabis compliance software with an integrated website builder & eCommerce platform.

Dispensaries that use integrated technology to provide better service have an advantage, whether they’re using their website to alert patients about what’s in stock, or to manage delivery services and track a driver’s location at a given time.

WebJoint is poised to be a leading provider to businesses compliant with all city and state laws moving forward, according to a release.

Pyrotree Inc co-founders Christopher Dell’Olio and Hilart Abrahamian made a stir this year as 22-year-old entrepreneurs by raising millions for their company. They talked to Cashinbis about their all-in-one software, and plans for 2018.

How does WebJoint cannabis business software help dispensary operators manage compliance?

Dell’Olio: The need for compliance in Colorado and Nevada means getting down to the metric. What cannabis they’re harvesting, how much, where the product is going – is it going to an edible manufacturer? How many edibles are produced from it? It will be hard for anyone not familiar with regulations.

With our service, the state will be able to track where the product came from, and we can automatically report to the state so operators don’t have to worry about compliance reporting.

In California, everyone has a different way of doing things, but the state is implementing a standard way of operating for management and packaging. We give [dispensaries] the tools to manage their business, and a website as well. You need to have your own brand and website because the market is so saturated that you need to find a way to stay relevant moving forward.

For example with delivery services, you can use your website to dispatch orders and see where drivers are. We’re always looking to those kind of integrations.

Abrahamian: It’s important with delivery services to keep them compliant, and we’re one of the few services that has driver accounts. There are complications coming for delivery services with taxes, and with tax guidelines differing from city to city.

What’s attracting investors to WebJoint?

Abrahamian: It’s an all-in-one software – you can get your licenses set up, and then with WebJoint you don’t have to worry about what data you’re sending to the state.

Dell’Olio: We’re looking to work with investors who understand our vision. They understand the background of the industry and they’re ready to move forward.

What kind of features are dispensary operators requesting?

Dell’Olio: I’ve always had a passion for the cannabis industry since I was 18. Hilart and I started a web design company, and we had a dispensary in San Fernando valley telling us, “We need a website with inventory, point of sale, and patient information.” That’s when we started to realize there was a need for track and trace platforms.

Abrahamian: We were making websites using WordPress when we started. We didn’t know about track and trace or point of sale software. Business owners are asking to be able to sign patients up on the website, verify them, and let them place orders, but the software didn’t exist.

As we developed it, we took advice and criticism from clients – “Why can’t I manage my inventory?” The system is very comprehensive now, from point of sale to being able to generate financial reports.

What is the marketplace that you open up to WebJoint clients?

Abrahamian: With the marketplace, we’re finding the best products out there and featuring them in front of our customers.

Dell’Olio: We have three main categories: distribution and brands, integrations, and website themes. We have specialized WebJoint themes for websites and we’ve opened the gate for any designer to make WebJoint platform themes, sell their themes to dispensaries, and make commission.

What’s the story behind the spider in your logo?

Abrahamian: The spider in the logo is a play off “Web” in WebJoint and it represents that we’re the glue of the industry with our all-in-one software.

What’s ahead for 2018?

Dell’Olio: States that are growing rapidly will slow down once licensing cools off. I see other countries legalizing cannabis – three out of ten calls we’re getting now are from Canada. The seed-to-sale space is very populated. Software companies are getting hacked. Companies are trying to do it all and they’re messing it up, but we’re focusing on what we do best.

Abrahamian: For WebJoint, inventory management. We’re adding the ability to have inventory locations selected, like storage rooms.

Dell’Olio: We’re tracking inventory down to the gram – you can see how much a driver has on them and how much product came out in each location. It’s something the industry needs for delivery drivers.

Any plans to go global?

Dell’Olio: Our salesguy is talking to someone in the UK about how we can offer services. We have a global focus and we’re waiting to see what happens.

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This year’s most recognized cannabis trade show was the biggest yet. There were 18,121 attendees at the Marijuana Business Conference & Expo in the Las Vegas Convention Center last week, where we got a glimpse of the latest cannabis industry trends.

Baked Bros’ Nadeem Al-Hasan, a speaker on a panel at MJBizCon, said “It’s grown enormously since the first year at the RIO. It was a nice scene and setting as well. The EXPO was very well organized in regards to workshops, sessions, and EXPO floor.”

“There were lots of new companies and even more vendor companies such as packaging, ordering, technology solutions. It was just a small taste of where this is REALLY all going. We are anticipating an 80/20 rec/med market nationwide,” he said.

Here’s what cannabis industry members were talking about.

Some fun numbers from last weeks #MjBizCon – we had a blast!! href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Headset?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Headset #cannabis #marijuana pic.twitter.com/vZE0bE0vTt

— Headset (@headsetio) November 20, 2017

1. Nuwu Cannabis Marketplace made waves

Many con attendees made a stop at the Nuwu Cannabis Marketplace, a 16,000-square-foot mega dispensary which gained national headlines for its drive-thru service. Check out our video tour hosted by Foottraffik!

2. Banking crisis brainstorming

Industry members voiced concerns about banking issues which remain a challenge as federal banking is unavailable.

“Stuart Titus, president, and CEO of California-based company Medical Marijuana Incorporated says the trend seems to be moving toward forming state banks, an idea Nevada lawmakers have floated before,” according to LasVegasNow.

The #MJBizCon expo floor is officially open! Come stop by and say hi at the MJBizDaily booth or MJBizCon Lounge pic.twitter.com/ZeUBc9K1LK

— Marijuana Biz Daily (@MJBizDaily) November 15, 2017

3. Opportunities that come with mainstream companies

Speakers pointed to opportunities with mainstream companies edging into the cannabis space. “The speaker sessions were fantastic . . . The deliverable and engagement or questions asked were great,” Al-Hasan said.

Speaker Jeanne Sullivan told attendees that “These companies are not going to miss out,” referring to the industry entrances of Scotts Miracle-Gro, liquor distributor Constellation Brands and Netflix, according to The Seattle Times.

“Sullivan said that her advice to those in the marijuana space is to position themselves as best they can for potential acquisition down the road by larger corporations such as those and others from the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries.”

4. Push for innovation

Speaker and former Apple and Tesla executive George Blankenship focused on innovation as the key to reshaping the marijuana business.” “Sooner or later, you’re going to be able to say, ‘Alexa, send me an eighth of flower,’” Blankenship said.

Nothing’s too futuristic for the cannabis industry, as you can see by this virtual reality booth.

Have you experienced cannabis in virtual reality? We're here at #mjbizcon this week at booth #3425 Get your goggle on and come take a look at the future of the cannabis industry. #MJBizCon2017 pic.twitter.com/AknEWCk61J

— MJ Freeway (@mjfreeway) November 16, 2017

5. California’s regulations made everyone take a deep breath

During the con, California dropped over 300 pages of regulations on its cannabis businesses, which many companies paused to consider.

This seems low?? i hope. MQ: "only about 30% of #california #cannabis businesses will successfully transition w/new regs" #mjbizcon #mmj #mj

— Cannabis Biz Times (@editorCBT) November 12, 2015

6. Women talked industry leadership

Women-led sessions put emphasis on maintaining an inclusive, diverse industry.

“We want men to be a part of our good ol’ girl network too” – Andi B. Goldman on the importance of diversification and inclusivity in the industry. #MJBizCon #womenincannabis pic.twitter.com/jHIWKurMmK

— Marijuana Biz Daily (@MJBizDaily) November 16, 2017

Our own Amanda Rigdon kick started the #mjbizcon Science Symposium with an overview of the growth & direction of the #cannabis industry. pic.twitter.com/IoPKCgaU3M

— Emerald Scientific (@EmeraldSci) November 14, 2017

Women in the Cannabis Industry Luncheon #MJBizCon pic.twitter.com/9dyLHfelWD

— See Results (@thseeresults) November 16, 2017

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There’s a global trend to prioritize research on cannabinoid medicines, and InMed Pharmaceuticals is leading the pack. By producing cannabinoids in a bacterial biosynthesis system, this pre-clinical stage biopharmaceutical company is developing therapies for multiple diseases, including Epidermolysis Bullosa, Glaucoma, and Pain.

InMed‘s pharmaceutical research is coupled with innovative drug delivery systems that have a futuristic feel – recently, the company announced success in creating topical eye drop that forms a “gel-like” lens over the eye, promoting extended absorption through the eye.

InMed’s commitment to treat the previously-thought-untreatable caught the attention of president and CEO Eric Adams, first as an investor, then as an executive.

“InMed takes medicinal marijuana (MMJ) to a completely new level, that of true pharmaceutical drug development. We don’t grow any plants, and you don’t smoke any of our products,” Adams said.

“We develop novel treatments, using many of the 90+ cannabinoids found in the plant, to treat serious diseases. This biotech approach will unlock a wide array of opportunities. Another differentiating factor between MMJ and biotech: the level of return to shareholders for biotech is significantly more than what you see in the MMJ space,” Adams said.

Prior to InMed, Adams had over 25 years as a biopharmaceutical executive, as CEO at enGene Inc. and in senior roles with QLT Inc. (Vancouver), Advanced Tissues Science Inc. (La Jolla), Abbott Laboratories (Chicago), and Fresenius AG (Germany). He’s also a previous Chairman of BIOTECanada’s Emerging Company Advisory Board.

Adams talked about the investment potential in the biopharmaceutical sector with Cashinbis.

What motivated you to personally invest in the cannabis industry?

I think what impressed me most with InMed is the diversity and depth of core assets in cannabinoids, which are a tremendous treasure trove of potential compounds to treat a wide array of diseases. It’s amazing that one class of compounds has such potential in treating a wide array of disease, including those which have a high unmet medical need. Its a rapidly growing sector; the US market for one cannabinoid in particular, CBD, is projected to be over $3 billion in the next few years.

I was also attracted to the company based on its lead compound, called INM-750, which is designed to treat a rare genetic disease called Epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Back when I was working for a company developing products for sever burn victims, I met a child with EB being treated in the burn ward (their wounds are similar to sever burns and thus were once treated in the burn wards), and it always stuck with me – the severity of the disease and that nothing can be done to treat the underlying disease, just the symptoms including wound healing, pain, itch, etc. InMed showed me there’s real promise for not only symptom management, but also some the potential for disease reversal in some patients using cannabinoids – that caught my eye as both an investor and as someone who wants to find novel treatment to treat these kind of conditions with very high unmet medical needs.

How can biotech expand our expectations for disease treatment?

The biotech industry in general is a game-changer.

GW Pharmaceutical, one of the leaders in the cannabis biotech industry, has one drug approved and they’re on the cusp of their second approved for various types of epilepsy. Zynerba has multiple Phase 2 trials either completed or underway. There’s a lot of headway being made and it’s an exciting space to be in right now.

Most people are familiar with THC as being the primary ingredient in cannabis responsible for psychoactivity. It is also known for its ability to affect several diseases, and this disease-fighting ability can be found across the cannabinoid family. Our focus at InMed is to use non-THC cannabinoids in products that can be applied topically to the skin or the eye, to treat at the site of the disease. We can thereby avoid systemic circulation (in the blood stream) of the drug and minimize side effects. A great example is pain: when it is localized to one part of the body, it’s best to treat it locally rather than putting something into the bloodstream, hoping the drug reached the site of pain. When you have more drug in the body than is needed, more things can go wrong and you see more side effects.

Any updates on InMed’s pipeline?

For our INM-750 [Epidermolysis Bullosa] program, we’re finalizing the formulation which will subsequently be used in advanced toxicology studies, and we anticipate filing an application for human trials in Q3-4 of 2018.

We continue to make progress with both the INM-085 for glaucoma program and the INM-405 for pain.

What are the benefits of biosynthesis over traditional extraction of cannabinoids?

Our biosynthesis program opens the gate to look at the use of minor cannabinoids in treating disease. There are over 90+ cannabinoids in the plant; however, in addition to THC and CBD, there are maybe three or four more that are borderline economical to extract from the plant. Beyond that, it is highly unlikely that it would be economical to extract them because there’s such low quantities.

Biosynthesis starts with DNA from the plant and instead of growing the cannabinoids in the plant, we grow them in bacteria. The bacteria (host) reads the instructions on the DNA and then has the ability to produce large quantities of the cannabinoids that have been. It’s a laboratory-based procedure, which means it’s very controlled and has significant cost benefits vs. extraction from the plant. InMed’s innovative process targets cost savings as well as enhanced production, purification and quality control compared to existing grow-harvest-extract-purify methods employed by other companies. Other benefits include: no herbicides or pesticides, it’s very quick (takes days to make a batch versus months to grow a crop), and you don’t have to grow thousands of acres of marijuana to get the quantities of cannabinoids desired. We are confident that we can produce any cannabinoid, even the rarest, at commercial scale in an economical fashion.

Why are new drug delivery methods important?

The issue with medical marijuana will remain: how do you effectively dose it to treat a specific symptom or disease? The important thing with any drug delivery is effective dosing – How do you monitor the amount of drug delivered in a puff of a cigarette? And, can you fully dose an effective amount without any psychoactivity?

It will be difficult for medical marijuana to reach the efficiency and safety levels you see with pharmaceuticals. We run exceptionally well controlled clinical trials and track data very closely. This is the type of information physicians need before writing a prescription – they need meaningful data and to see that regulatory agencies have reviewed and approved as safe and effective. This will position the cannabinoid pharmaceutical industry as a strong sector versus other medical marijuana sectors.

What will move cannabinoid medicine forward?

First and foremost, is having a team with the experience and track records of successful drug development, InMed is deep with experience in the biopharmaceutical sector. Also, as with any biotech company, accessing the capital required to conduct extensive testing and then making sure that the company’s assets are effectively deployed. We need to continue to invest in research and development to move the science forward. Also, the evolving regulations around the world will play an important role. From a regulation point-of-view, its the evolving understanding that cannabinoids, outside of THC, are non-psychoactive. They are important medicines that need to be studied in a meaningful way.

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Three important numbers you should know about the cannabis industry this week.

$6 million

Southern University of Carenco, La. awarded newcomer medical cannabis company Advanced Biomedics a $6 million contract to grow, process and distribute medical cannabis. Advanced Biomedics plans to construct a 40 thousand square foot facility in Baker, La.

89.5 percent

Almost 90 percent of physicians-in-training said they do not feel prepared to prescribe medical marijuana according to a recent survey, and only nine percent of medical school curriculums document content on medical marijuana in the Association of American Medical Colleges database.

10,000 to 200,000 square feet

The trend in cannabis grow facilities is to go big, according to EnviroGrow CEO Dan Williams: “The trend in cannabis is large-scale facilities from 10,000 to 200,000 square feet as states are giving out a limited amount of cultivator licenses.”

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Biopharma companies have been racing to develop new, effective ways for cannabis patients to take their medicine, from chewing gum to oral dissolving strips.

Zynerba Pharmaceuticals Inc. reported a failed clinical trial for cannabidiol gel in adult epilepsy, which caused its stock to plummet 58.5 percent this week.

The Zynerba trial found that ZYN002 did not demonstrate a statistically significant reduction of focal seizures during the treatment period.

Armando Anido, chief executive officer of Zynerba, said: “We are very disappointed that the STAR 1 trial did not meet its primary endpoint in this patient population. We are continuing to evaluate this study and the ongoing STAR 2 open label study to determine next steps with ZYN002 in adult epilepsy patients with focal seizures.”

Zynerba uses synthetic CBD for STAR 1 instead of the botanical plant based compound. With two products on the market, the company’s stocks took a hit as a result of the failed trial.

While Zynerba’s clinical trial didn’t perform as they’d hoped, other companies are seeing success in developing cannabinoid medications, especially by diversifying their products.

U.K.-based GW Pharmaceuticals, creators of cannabinoid prescription drug Sativex for multiple sclerosis, saw shares surge 2.9 percent this week.

AXIM Biotech’s product pipeline includes treatments for Crohn’s disease, Restless Legs syndrome, opioid addiction, glaucoma, psoriasis and more.

CURE Pharmaceutical’s CureFilm offers new technology that allows multiple active ingredients in one dosage, and allows for safer, more convenient dosing than traditional medicines. Meanwhile. CURE is also researching how cancer responds to cannabinoids.

Read about four new ways for patients to use medical cannabis.

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I have to confess: I’m not only a Netflix binge watcher, but truth be told, I’m also a binge podcast listener. My most recent obsession was “S-Town,” an investigative journalism podcast created by the producers of “Serial” and “This American Life.” Incredibly, “S-Town” was downloaded 10 million times over four days. That’s a lot of downloads. And, a record!

When it comes to cannabis, there are a lot of great podcasts: from “Cannabis Confidential with Dr. Dina” and “Good News with Nurse Heather” to “The Marijuana Agenda with Russ Belville. There’s even a podcast network — Cannabis Radio —  dedicated exclusively to bringing great voices in cannabis to the public.

(For the uninitiated, a podcast is a digital audio production — much like a radio show — designed to be consumed on your mobile device. Popular networks like iTunes, Stitcher, and Spreaker host thousands of different podcasts on virtually every topic.)

HealthLab by Zana Medical Blends High Production Values With Compelling Story Telling

But, what we haven’t had yet in the world of cannabis is a podcast that follows in the footsteps of shows like “Startup” and “This American Life,” that weave personal stories with inquisitive and insightful commentary. That shouldn’t be a surprise — producing those shows are no easy feat. It took producer and investigative reporter, Brian Reed (and a large production team) nearly three years to bring us “S-Town!”

Well, the ganja gods must have been listening. And, we now have a cannabis-focused podcast that would feel right at home on NPR. Zana Medical’s Zana HealthLab “Eyes Wide Open Podcast, a Podcast About Cannabis and Insomnia” blends foundational knowledge on the clinical side of cannabis, interviews with recognized experts with compelling personal stories from patients.  

What I like most about the Zana HealthLab podcast — aside from the high production values and original music — is the dynamic between hosts Seth Lorinczi and Jeremy Kossen. Seth has a breezy, informal style that gives us a peek into cannabis from the perspective of a layperson. Science writer and Zana Medical’s research director, Jeremy Kossen, provides the essential foundational knowledge breaking down the science.

Seth never lets Jeremy get too nerdy, and keeps the podcast from diving too deep into the intricacies of our endocannabinoid system. The duo has great chemistry; and keep the show (which averages 45 minutes per episode) moving along so quickly, by the end of each episode, I was more than ready to hop right on to the next episode!

Zana HealthLab’s “Eyes Wide Open: A Podcast About Cannabis and Insomnia” comprises season one. An episodic series that unfolds over five episodes, episodes two through four focus on specific cohorts — women, veterans, and seniors. Episode one sets up the season by providing foundational knowledge on clinical cannabis with interviews from top researchers like Harvard-trained Nick Jikomes, Ph.D., cannabis science lead at Leafly, and Dr. Kimberly Babson, who’s authored numerous scientific papers on insomnia and cannabis.

One of the most interesting episodes — S01E03 Cannabis, Veterans, & Insomnia — features Roger Martin. Martin seems an unlikely candidate for clinical cannabis. A veteran of the Army, and a retired police officer, Martin admits he was hesitant to try cannabis. But, after years of being medicated by his doctors with a brutal cocktail of prescription drugs, from Ambien to OxyContin, he had enough. But, his first foray into cannabis was anything but seamless. I won’t drop a spoiler on you, but his story is both funny and heartwarming.

An Episodic Series

Co-host Jeremy Kossen describes their goal in producing a podcast exploring the clinical side of cannabis:

“With medical marijuana now legal in 28 states, Washington D.C., and Canada, over 230 million people in North America live in states or provinces where cannabis is legal is various forms,” said Jeremy Kossen, co-host of Zana HealthLab. “Our goal for the Zana HealthLab is to provide a critical and objective view of cannabis a potential treatment option. By featuring a broad cross section of patients, physicians, and scientists, our goal is for patients to be able to make informed decisions about their health.”

You can subscribe to the podcast on your preferred network, iTunes, Stitcher, or Spreaker. Or, binge listen to them on HealthLab Radio by Zana Medical:

• S01EO1: Foundational Knowledge: Insomnia, Health Sleep & Cannabis
• S01E02: Cannabis, Women & Insomnia
• S01E03: Cannabis, Veterans, & Insomnia
• S01E04: Cannabis, Seniors, & Insomnia
• S01E05: Cannabis & Insomnia: Putting It All Together

 Zana HealthLab “Eyes Wide Open, a Podcast About Cannabis and Insomnia,” was produced by Zana Medical, an online clinical cannabis guidance company that delivers personalized cannabis treatments by combining advanced guidance and assessment tools with support from expert clinicians and coaches.

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