Popular Wellness Supplements as a Parallel Business Model
The world of cannabis continues to change, leaving uncertainty for cannabis business owners to navigate. With laws that vary from state to state, new regulations at the federal level, and ad restrictions on many platforms, it can be hard to know how to proceed.
In today’s uncertain marketplace, it can be beneficial to diversify infused product lines. This doesn’t mean your business needs to retire from cannabis production entirely, but ensuring other infused products provide revenue can keep business afloat if a certain market shifts significantly.
As America grows more health conscious, it’s no longer enough to craft products that taste good. Consumers also want nutrient-dense products that can help them feel their best while working to meet their fitness goals. Alternatives to cannabis products include infusions of vitamins, protein, or functional adaptogens — all perfect for the wellness-oriented consumer. Adding products in these categories to compliment your cannabis line can circumvent a challenging marketplace, leaving your business with less risk and more profit.
Here, we’ll discuss some of the most popular wellness supplements and their benefits so you can consider how each of these could resonate with your existing or an adjacent audience.
Protein
Unless you’re living under a rock, you’re probably familiar with the current protein frenzy. Protein is essential for muscle growth and recovery, making it a must-have for anyone with fitness goals. With more Americans hitting the gym and more people prioritizing protein intake, the demand for this necessary nutrient continues to grow — and businesses are listening.
On grocery store shelves, you can find protein shakes and powders, but it doesn’t end there. Now, protein can be found in anything from granola to popcorn, adding a nutrient-dense boost to everyday foods. Even Dunkin’ Donuts recently crafted a line of protein refreshers to power you through your day, made with protein-enriched milk.
To help meet endless consumer demand, protein-infused chocolates and gummies are growing in popularity for those seeking a little extra fuel. Adding protein to your confections can help catch the eye of these customers, and is an on-trend alternative to cannabis products. Some of the most popular forms of protein supplements include:
Hemp
If you’re already infusing gummies or chocolates with cannabis, this protein is an easy and obvious shift. Hemp protein is easily accessed by grinding the plant’s seeds, and offers a complete plant-based protein that also contains heart-healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Collagen
The most abundant protein in the body, collagen supplements are popular for supporting healthier skin and hair, joints, bones, and muscles – including the heart.
Pea
While avoiding the top 8 food allergens, pea protein is rich in iron and is known to promote a healthy heart and healthy blood flow.
Egg
Egg whites are high in pure protein, and have shown to increase muscle mass and strength while lowering cholesterol and visceral fats.
Soy
In addition to being a plant-based complete protein, soy protein is known to improve the gut barrier, provide fiber and antioxidants, and support heart health.
Whey
This milk-derived protein form is known to be more satiating than other protein forms, providing weight-management and muscle-growth support.
Vitamins
Cannabis can be used to treat a variety of minor ailments, from sleeplessness to aches and pains. While vitamins are not a replacement for the medicinal properties of marijuana, they can play a role in supporting customers’ overall wellness goals. Some of the most popular vitamin supplements include:
C
Especially popular during cold and flu season, this vitamin is a powerful antioxidant known to boost the immune system.
B12
Popular for fatigue reduction, vitamin B12 supports the health of the body’s nerve and blood cells.
Iron
This necessary mineral is known to raise energy levels and boost cognition, and has been suggested to improve athletic performance.
Folic Acid (B9)
Often recommended during early pregnancy, this vitamin reduces birth defect risks, and can potentially improve high blood pressure and depression symptoms.
Magnesium
Found in a variety of specific forms, magnesium supports a number of bodily functions including protein synthesis, nerve function, energy production, heart rhythm, and more.
Probiotics
While not a vitamin per se, probiotics – specifically spore-forming probiotics – are gaining popularity for supporting gut health, immune and nervous system function, and protein metabolism. There are many strains that can be beneficial, and as research progresses, the North American probiotic market is predicted to rise at a 8.2% growth rate to reach $21.92 billion by 2030.
Adaptogens & Herbs
Many of your customers take cannabis supplements to manage symptoms including sleeplessness, tension, pain, and anxiety. Many other herbs are known for relaxing properties similar to those of certain cannabis strains, and can offer appealing alternatives for those seeking natural, herbal support.
Chamomile
Well-known as an herbal tea, studies have proven this flower is effective for reducing several types of anxiety.
Ashwagandha
Popular within traditional Ayurvedic practices, this adaptogen is known to reduce cortisol levels and stress and support better sleep.
Lavender
This popular herb is traditionally known to promote relaxation, restful sleep, and improved mood, and has the potential to treat a wide range of conditions from burns to neurological disorders.
Kava
Traditionally ground from the root of shrubs found in the South Pacific, this adaptogen is gaining popularity for its properties supporting muscle relaxation and overall feelings of well-being.
Valerian Root
This supplement known for supporting relaxation, deep sleep, and improved mood has been used since ancient Greek and Roman times.
Passion Flower
This traditional folk remedy is used to manage a variety of ailments including general pain, anxiety, stress, and ADHD.
Functional Mushrooms
These fantastic fungi are also growing in popularity as supportive supplements for overall wellness. From Reishi to Lion’s Mane to Cordyceps, these mushrooms can support everything from improved focus to better sleep. Check out our full functional mushroom explainer to learn more.
Let Truffly Made Help Perfect Your New Recipes!
Once you’ve determined which products to add to your line of infusions, let Truffly Made help develop your recipe and optimize your production line. Our team of kitchen chemists and recipe experts can help make sure all of your infused candies are among the best on the market.
Reach out to info@trufflymade.com and let us know what products your brand would like to incorporate into your production line, and we’ll get started dialing in your recipe.