Study Examins Cannabis Drinks

By Corey Fischer

Nov 26, 2018 | 1:01 PM

UBC Okanagan is teaming up with the BC Institute of Technology and a private cannabis company to take a closer look at cannabis-infused beverages.

Chemistry professor Susan Murch says they are working with Kelowna-based Pacific Rim Brands to investigate the ingredients of pot plants and how they can be used in drinks.

“We are at the early stages of this research and are very excited about the potential for both interesting science and new products for consumers,” says Murch (pictured).

Murch says making products that can sit on store shelves for months or years requires innovation.

“We are seeing industry recalls in cannabis products because we really don’t know how to use the ingredients on a large scale. Making stable products that can sit on store shelves for months or years requires innovation.”

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BCIT’s Paula Brown also investigates plant chemistry and works with the natural products industry to develop new products. At the same time, she works to establish standards of quality and ensure regulatory compliance.

“Like any new sector, the science and formulation will be the most important element to ensure consistency, scalability and trust,” says Brown. “There is a lot of work to be done to develop stable, high-quality, consistent cannabis formulations that consumers can use with confidence.”

The partnership with Pacific Rim allows Murch and Brown to develop high-quality cannabis beverages for health, wellness and leisure, explains Kevin Letun, founder and chief strategy officer of Pacific Rim Brands.

by Corey Fischer