HUNGRY FOR MORE: Hudson River Foods Rounding Out Product Offerings with Acquisition of Dancing Deer Bakery and Hodgson Mill
Boston-based Kosher Gourmet Gift Basket Company and Illinois-based Whole-Grain Products Manufacturer Move to 100,000-Square-Foot Manufacturing Plant in the Hudson River Valley
Castleton, NY (May 21, 2019) – Hudson River Foods, a family of organic, non-GMO, kosher, vegan and allergy-free food and beverages, has acquired Boston-based gourmet gift basket company Dancing Deer Baking Co. and Effingham, IL-based Hodgson Mill, which produces flours, cereals, baking ingredients and baking mixes. Both companies’ operations have moved to Hudson River Foods’ headquarters in the Hudson River Valley, just south of Albany, NY.
“With these strategic acquisitions, Hudson River Foods continues to reinforce its leadership position in every aspect of the non-gmo, kosher and organic food and beverage market,” said Donna Ratner, chief operating officer of Hudson River Foods. “We’ve come a long way since we first started selling green drinks in 2005 and made our first acquisition in 2008. We’re absolutely thrilled to bring these cutting-edge brands into the fold.”
Dancing Deer offers gourmet cookie and brownie gift baskets and homemade-style bakery items. Founded in 1994 in a former pizza parlor in West Roxbury, MA, DD made a name for itself selling baked-from-scratch gift baskets through grocery, direct-to-consumer, reseller and corporate channels. The company, which was started by a baker, a business strategist and an artist who have since moved on, offers dedicated allergen-free options in their lines.
Hodgson Mill, a family-owned company that has grown into a national leader in whole grain products and high-quality gluten-free flours, cereals, baking mixes, quinoa and rice, uses a premium milling process to ensure all of its grains’ nutritious germ, bran and natural oils are fully preserved. The products are sold in BPA-free packaging.
The companies have transitioned to Hudson River Foods’ environmentally conscious 100,000-square-foot manufacturing plant outfitted with energy-efficient HVAC systems and LED lighting for the Hudson River Foods family of brands, including Tempt Hemp, European Gourmet Bakery, Cherrybrook Kitchen, Epic Seed, 479 Popcorn, Healthy To Go and High Country Kombucha.
About Hudson River Foods
Located in the scenic Hudson River Valley in upstate New York, Cell-nique Corp., dba Hudson River Foods (formerly Healthy Brands Collective), is the parent company to a nationally and internationally known portfolio of better-for-you natural and organic brands, including Tempt Hemp, European Gourmet Bakery, Cherrybrook Kitchen, High Country Kombucha, Healthy To Go, Epic Seed and 479 Popcorn. Established in 2005 by Dan Ratner, a former GE Capital executive, and Donna Ratner, one of the founding pioneers of MTV, Hudson River Foods is committed to environmentally responsible business practices, and is dedicated to providing “Healthier Foods, Healthier Life.” Visit https://hudsonriverfoods.com/.
Where to Find Us
Products manufactured by Hudson River Foods are available in leading grocery, natural and specialty retailers nationwide, and through leading distributors including UNFI, KeHE, DPI, Davidson, CNS and more. For wholesale inquiries contact sales@hudsonriverfoods.com, tel 888.417.9343.
Contact
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural. steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042
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NatchCom — The Natural Product Industry’s Premier Digital Conference — Set for San Francisco, June 17 - 18
#hacknatural
April 29, 2019 (San Francisco, CA) – NatchCom Inc. — the natural product industry’s digital media and education company — announced the dates for its third event: June 17 and 18, at The Presidio’s Golden Gate Club, San Francisco, CA.
“After two, amazing 2018 conferences in Boulder CO, bringing NatchCom to the Bay area, a global center of natural and organic products as well tech, made complete sense,” said Jennifer Krupey, CEO NatchCom. “The industry demand could not be ignored.”
NatchCom is partnering with several Northern California, natural product business groups and leaders, including Naturally Bay Area, the regional affiliate of the Naturally Boulder network. “We couldn’t be more excited to be working with NatchCom and bringing this innovative conference to the Bay Area,” said Michael Anzalone, Program Director of Naturally Bay Area. “Food and tech are an inherent part of the DNA of San Francisco. This event brings to these two enormously important worlds together like never before.”
NatchCom launched its inaugural conferences — the first of its kind in the $200 billion natural product industry — to great success in Boulder, Colorado, in 2018. The conference helps natural products companies advance their digital sales and marketing strategies, including Amazon, email marketing, social media and paid search. NatchCom brings together digital tech and natural/organic brands to optimize profits and build community.
“The NatchCom approach to helping emerging brands get it right in digital is something of real value to our members,” said Anzalone. “The online vertical is the fastest growing vertical in natural products, topping more than $11 billion, so this education is critical to our Bay Area community.”
The first round of speakers was just announced and includes a host of digital experts, channel reps and natural products representatives from companies including RANGEme, Boxed, Alfalfa’s Markets, Amazon, Parsnip, Hidden Rhythm, Moxie Sozo and others. To view the current list of attending speakers, visit here.
Event information:
For sponsor, speaker and registration information, visit www.NatchCom.com, or contact info@natchcom.com.
To purchase tickets, visit here.
About NatchCom
At NatchCom, we believe the natural/organic product revolution matters. That’s why we built an event designed to help emerging and established natural product companies thrive online. In short, NatchCom seamlessly connects the power players in today's digital world with the fast-growing $200 billion natural products industry. The two-day gathering is a hands-on, interactive experience that helps industry professionals take their e-commerce and digital marketing game to a new level. No other event brings together the natural product industry and tech to optimize profits, share marketing best practices and, ultimately, #HackNatural.
Contact
NatchCom CEO, Jennifer Krupey
Jen@NatchCom.com
Hemp on the Bayou, a Town Hall-Style Symposium, Explores Opportunities in Hemp on May 1 During New Orleans JazzFest
Originally Appeared in Let’s Talk Hemp Newsletter, April 2019
By Steven Hoffman
What could be better than attending the legendary JazzFest in New Orleans, especially for retailers, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders and others interested in the rapidly growing industrial hemp products market? With over 25,000 uses ranging from full-spectrum CBD hemp extract and hemp superfoods to textiles, building materials and bioplastics, now that hemp is legal in the United States as a result of the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, its impact has the potential to change the world.
Join hosts Morris Beegle and Rick Trojan of the Let’s Talk Hemp Podcast on Wednesday, May 1, 2019, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, at the Central City BBQ, 1201 South Rampart Street, in historic downtown New Orleans for Hemp on the Bayou, held this year during the 2019 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Presented as a town-hall style symposium, Hemp on the Bayou will feature a recap of the sold out NoCo Hemp Expo, educational tracks on hemp market opportunities, USDA and FDA rules and regulations, the 2019/2020 hemp forecast, growing hemp in Louisiana and throughout the U.S, policy predictions and more.
Hemp Experts Gather in New Orleans During JazzFest
Speakers for Hemp on the Bayou feature such industry luminaries as Tim Gordon, President of the Colorado Hemp Industries Association, and Chief Science Officer of leading CBD producer Functional Remedies; Jeffrey Cole, Senior Director of Business Development for Restorative Botanicals, maker of foods and supplements made from full-spectrum hemp extract; Dani Billings, President and Co-founder of the hemp-centric spa Nature’s Root, and founder of the Colorado Hemp Project; biological and agricultural engineer Kristy Hebert, founder of Louisiana-based Cypress Hemp; Eric Steenstra, President of Vote Hemp and Executive Director of the Hemp Industries Association; and other experts and specialists in hemp agriculture, production, sales, marketing, and business development.
“We are beyond thrilled to combine the excitement of the hemp industry with the energy and excitement of JazzFest as we present Hemp on the Bayou to the Louisiana agriculture, entrepreneurial, music and entertainment communities,” said Morris Beegle, Co-founder of Colorado Hemp Company, producer of Hemp on the Bayou and the annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s largest gathering of hemp industry professionals. Beegle is also producer of the upcoming Southern Hemp Expo, Sept. 6-7, 2019, in Nashville, TN.
In addition to educational panels, Hemp on the Bayou will feature networking, community, collaboration, a New Orleans live music “After Party” and “Crawfish Fest,” and more. Presenting Sponsors for the 2019 Hemp on the Bayou include Restorative Botanicals and Seed2System. For tickets and information to participate in Hemp on the Bayou, visit www.hemponthebayou.com
EarthX: Hemp Can Save the Planet
In addition to hosting the upcoming Hemp on the Bayou in New Orleans on May 1st, Morris Beegle will be a featured speaker at the 2019 EarthX, April 25-28, 2019, in Dallas, TX. A leading nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire and energize the global community in ways that help create a sustainable world for all living things, and a better, cleaner, healthier world for future generations, this year’s international EarthX conference will feature a special educational track on industrial hemp. In addition to Morris Beegle speaking at the event, Southern Hemp Expo is a Sponsor of EarthX. Visit www.EarthX.org.
Save the Date: Southern Hemp Expo
Save the date for the 2nd Annual Southern Hemp Expo (SHE), September 6-7, 2019, in Nashville, TN. NoCo Hemp Expo is the largest gathering of hemp industry professionals in the Eastern U.S. Visit www.SouthernHempExpo.com to learn more.
About Hemp on the Bayou
Hemp on the Bayou is produced by the Colorado Hemp Company, a division of WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives), based in Loveland, CO. WAFBA also is the producer of NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s largest conference and exposition for hemp industry professionals and advocates, and the 2nd Annual Southern Hemp Expo , Sept. 6-7, 2019, in Nashville, TN. Colorado Hemp Company also is the founder of TreeFreeHemp paper and printing services. Areas of focus include product and brand development, event production, and advocacy. Hemp on the Bayou provides support to nonprofit organizations including the Jack Herer Foundation; and Hemp History Week, celebrating its 10th anniversary in June 2019. Learn more at www.hemponthebayou.com, or visit us on Facebook.
Hemp Hits the Big Time: 2019 NoCo Hemp Expo Draws Capacity Crowd of 10,000 Hemp Industry Professionals and Enthusiasts to Denver
Originally Appeared in Let’s Talk Hemp Newsletter, April 2019
By Steven Hoffman
What began in 2014 as a modest meeting of intrepid Loveland/Fort Collins-based hemp entrepreneurs has grown into the world’s largest gathering of hemp industry professionals in the world.
Breaking all attendance records in its 6th year, over 10,000 hemp industry professionals and enthusiasts – including growers, producers, manufacturers, retailers, investors and others from throughout the U.S. and more than 20 countries – converged in Denver March 28-30 for the 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo to showcase everything from CBD products to hemp building materials, network, and get educated and updated about the fast-changing industrial hemp market.
Featuring a special keynote address from Colorado Governor Jared Polis, plus presentations from Native American leader and “hempreneur” Winona LaDuke, Dr. Bronner’s CEO David Bronner, dietary supplements regulatory expert Loren Israelsen and others, an Investor Forum, Business Conference, Farm Symposium and an exhibit hall showcasing 225 vendors, interest was so heightened about all things hemp that NoCo6’s impressive lineup of workshops and education was completely sold out.
“We’d like to extend a huge and humbling thank you to all who participated in and attended the biggest and best NoCo Hemp Expo to date,” said NoCo Hemp Expo co-founders Morris Beegle and Elizzy Knight. “This event proved once again that purpose and intention are at the heart of the hemp movement.”
“The excitement around the hemp industry right now is tremendous, and that was showcased through the 10,000-plus attendees at NoCo6,” said Garrett Bain, Chief Sales Officer for GenCanna, Presenting Sponsor of NoCo6 and a Kentucky based industry leader focused on scaling premium agricultural hemp production for food and supplement products. ”We’re proud of our great relationship with the Colorado Hemp Company [producer of NoCo Hemp Expo]empHem and can’t wait for next year!”
“NoCo6 pulsed with energy; the sense of something big happening was palpable,” observed Loren Israelsen, President of the United Natural Products Alliance, based in Salt Lake, UT, and a featured speaker at NoCo6. “As a newcomer to the hemp industry, but a veteran of the dietary supplement industry, the event offered a reminder of our own evolution, and a peek into what the future of hemp might look like. The passage of the 2018 Farm Bill has both liberated hemp production and also complicated the place of CBD in the market. How this all works out will be one of the great stories of our age, and I look forward to being a part of it.”
NoCo Hemp Expo Program Highlights
Featured speakers for this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo included Colorado Governor and hemp advocate Jared Polis; Native American tribal leader turned hemp farmer Winona LaDuke; David Bronner, CEO of legendary soap maker Dr. Bronner’s; renowned market researcher Dr. Michelle Barry; regenerative agriculture and soil expert Ray Archuleta; hemp expert and author Doug Fine; hemp entrepreneurs Dani Billings of Nature’s Root and Janel Ralph of Palmetto Harmony; and other leaders breaking new ground in the industrial hemp market. For a complete list of speakers, visit here and for a full program schedule from this year’s event, visit here.
Digital Magazine Available
Also, NoCo6 has produced a digital and print magazine and show program, Let’s Talk Hemp, for the first time in partnership with Honeysuckle Magazine, which can be viewed here.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
GenCanna™ was featured as the Presenting Sponsor of NoCo6. Business Conference Sponsors included: Elixinol, New Hope Network, Benmar Extractions, Hoban Law Group, Lilu’s Garden, McAllister Garfield P.C., Frank Robison Law Group, and Steep Fuze Coffee. Farm Symposium Sponsors included; Bluhen Botanicals, Bish Enterprises, Colorado Breeders Depot, Front Range Biosciences, Hempsac, New West Genetics, ProVerde Labs and Rad Extracts. Meet all of our Sponsor Partners here: https://nocohempexpo.com/sponsors/.
Save the Date: Southern Hemp Expo
Save the date for the 2nd Annual Southern Hemp Expo (SHE), September 6-7, 2019, in Nashville, TN. NoCo Hemp Expo is the largest gathering of hemp industry professionals in the Eastern U.S. Visit www.SouthernHempExpo.com to learn more.
Read More About the 2019 NoCo Hemp Expo
“Jared Polis Becomes a Rock Star at NoCo Hemp Expo,” Westword, March 29, 2019
“Firms Looking to Invest Big Money in Colorado’s Hemp Industry,” Denver Post, March 29, 2019
“NoCo Hemp Expo Runs Friday & Saturday,” Denver 7 News, March 29, 2019
“Hemp Entrepreneurs Hear the Benefits – and Challenges – of Booming Industry at Colorado Expo,” Denver Post, March 29, 2019
“The ‘Hemp Opportunity’ is in Full Flower at NoCo Hemp Expo,” New Hope Network, March 29, 2019
“Hemp Is Next: Colorado Wants More Than Marijuana Prominence,” Westword, March 30, 2019
“Pet Owners Check Out Expo In The Hopes Of Finding Answers To Pet Anxiety, Pain,” CBS Denver, March 31, 2019
“10,000 Show Up for the NoCo Hemp Expo in Denver,” 9 News Denver, March 31, 2019
About the NoCo Hemp Expo
The 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo is produced by the Colorado Hemp Company, a division of WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives), based in Loveland, CO. WAFBA also is the producer of the 2nd Annual Southern Hemp Expo and founder of TreeFreeHemp paper and printing services. Areas of focus include product and brand development, event production, and advocacy. NoCo6 provides support to nonprofit organizations including Bee Heroic; the Jack Herer Foundation; and Hemp History Week, celebrating its 10th anniversary in June 2019. Learn more at NocoHempExpo.com, or visit us on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter, #NoCo6.
The Year of Hemp: New Farm Bill Ignites Market for All Things Hemp, Showcased at the 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo, March 28-30, Denver
Originally Appeared in Let’s Talk Hemp Newsletter, March 2019
By Steven Hoffman
Featuring an Investor Forum, Business Conference, Farm Symposium and an Impressive Lineup of Workshops and Education During the 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo.
Hemp growers, producers, manufacturers, investors and others are feeling bullish in 2019, since the passage in late December of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. Better known as the Farm Bill, the legislation championed by Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) was nothing less than historic, in that it legalized for the first time in over 80 years the commercial cultivation and sale of industrial hemp, defined as containing less than 0.3% THC. Since then, the market for all things hemp has taken off.
And, the exploding world of hemp will be on display at the upcoming NoCo Hemp Expo, March 28-30, 2019, at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center in Denver. Now in its 6th year, the NoCo Hemp Expo is the largest gathering of hemp industry professionals under one roof. Given the excitement about the market today, nearly 10,000 attendees are expected.
Indeed, the legalization of industrial hemp has been a boon for independent natural foods and specialty retailers, said Loren Israelsen, President of the United Natural Products Alliance, an expert on regulatory law, and a featured keynote speaker at NoCo6. “For smaller stores, this category has been a lifeline for them as they battle to maintain foot traffic in the stores as online sales continue to grow,” said Israelsen, who will present his perspectives on hemp, CBD, dietary supplements and the FDA at NoCo6’s Business Conference on Friday, March 29.
According to Hemp Business Journal’s new report, The Global State of Hemp: 2019 Industry Outlook, U.S. sales of hemp products – from full-spectrum hemp extract and CBD products to hemp foods, textiles, building materials, bioplastics and more – estimated at $1 billion in 2018, are projected to grow 27% annually to reach $2.6 billion by 2022. Global hemp retail sales totaled $3.7 billion in 2018 and are projected to grow to $5.7 billion by 2020.
NoCo Hemp Expo Program Highlights
Featured speakers for this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo include Colorado Governor and hemp advocate Jared Polis; Native American tribal leader turned hemp farmer Winona LaDuke; David Bronner, 5th generation CEO of legendary soap maker Dr. Bronner’s; renowned market researcher Dr. Michelle Barry; regenerative agriculture and soil expert Ray Archuleta; hemp expert and author Doug Fine; hemp entrepreneurs Dani Billings of Nature’s Root and Janel Ralph of Palmetto Harmony; and other leaders breaking new ground in the industrial hemp market. For a complete list of speakers, visit here and for a full program schedule, visit here.
Other NoCo6 event highlights include:
Hemp Industry Daily Investor Forum, Thursday, March 28, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Legal updates and insights; investment trends and deal flow; opportunities and investments; networking; luncheon and more. Visit here for info.
Let’s Talk Hemp Business Conference, Friday, March 29, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Vertical integration; policy and regulation; compliance and certification; processing and manufacturing; market research; the global business of hemp. Visit here for info.
Let’s Talk Hemp Farm Symposium, Saturday, March 30, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Regenerative farming; soil health; genetics; new technology and equipment; regulations and compliance. Visit here for info.
Expo Hall, Friday and Saturday, March 29-30, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
With more than 225 exhibitors, NoCo6’s Expo Hall is open to B2B visitors on March 29 and March 30. The Expo Hall is open to consumers and the public on March 30. Features include the Bish Equipment Zone, HempToday International Alley, Science & Tech Spotlight, Adept Payments Workshop and Education Stage, EnviroTextiles Fashion Parade, Blu Nahulu Art Zone and more. Visit here for info.
NoCo After Party, Saturday, March 30, 8:00 pm – Midnight
Hang with friends at the Hemp Renaissance Ball After Party on Saturday, March 30, 8:00 pm – midnight at the Renaissance Hotel – Denver Stapleton. Buy tickets here.
Press Conference, Friday, March 29, 9:00 am – 9:45 am
For media attendees, NoCo Hemp Expo will host a press conference on Friday, March 29, 2019, onsite at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center at 9:00 – 9:45 am, before the conference and exhibition hall opens. To qualify for a Press Pass, journalists, editors and media must complete a press application here.
“With more than 25,000 industrial uses, hemp is a gift to humanity and the environment,” said Morris Beegle, co-producer of NoCo6. “We have an incredible opportunity to build the kind of sustainable, regenerative, socially responsible marketplace we want, and NoCo Hemp Expo is where the hemp community convenes to plan and prepare for a bright future.”
Tickets Are On Sale Now
Tickets are available for the Pre-Conference Hemp Industry Daily Investor Forum, Let’s Talk Hemp Business Conference, Let’s Talk Hemp Farm Symposium and B2B Industry Day in the Bluebird Botanicals Expo Hall. For all ticket levels, information and to purchase tickets, visit our website.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
GenCanna™ is the Presenting Sponsor of NoCo6.
Business Conference Sponsors include: Elixinol, New Hope Network, Benmar Extractions, Hoban Law Group, Lilu’s Garden, McAllister Garfield P.C., Frank Robison Law Group, and Steep Fuze Coffee.
Farm Symposium Sponsors include; Bluhen Botanicals, Bish Enterprises, Colorado Breeders Depot, Front Range Biosciences, Hempsac, New West Genetics, ProVerde Labs and Rad Extracts. Meet all of our Sponsor Partners here: https://nocohempexpo.com/sponsors/.
About the NoCo Hemp Expo
The 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo is produced by the Colorado Hemp Company, a division of WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives), based in Loveland, CO. WAFBA also is the producer of the 2nd Annual Southern Hemp Expo and founder of TreeFreeHemp paper and printing services. Areas of focus include product and brand development, event production, consulting and advocacy. NoCo6 provides support to nonprofit organizations including Bee Heroic; the Jack Herer Foundation; and Hemp History Week, celebrating its 10th anniversary in June 2019. Learn more at NocoHempExpo.com, or visit us on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter, #NoCo6.
Hemp Market Takes Off at Expo West
For Presence Marketing Newsletter, April 2019
By Steven Hoffman
Anyone attending Natural Products Expo West, the world’s largest natural products trade show, held this past March, couldn’t help but notice that 2019 has emerged as “The Year of Hemp” in the natural and organic products market.
Indeed, the legalization of industrial hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill has been a boon for independent natural foods retailers, said Loren Israelsen, president of the United Natural Products Alliance. “For smaller stores, this category has been a lifeline for them as they battle to maintain foot traffic in the stores as online sales continue to grow.”
Larger stores, too, are eyeing the hemp market: Boulder-based Lucky’s Market has taken the lead in hemp and CBD product sales in its stores nationwide, with full shelf sets in the natural living department. Ohio-based Mustard Seed Market’s supplement sales are being driven by its commitment to CBD products, says Nutrition Director Abraham Nabors. Whole Foods Market’s trend spotters identified hemp as a “top 10 food trend for 2019,” and recently, Whole Foods CEO John Mackey indicated the possibility of Whole Foods selling cannabis products should they become legal in the future.
According to Hemp Business Journal’s new report, The Global State of Hemp: 2019 Industry Outlook, U.S. sales of hemp products – from full-spectrum hemp extract and CBD products to hemp foods, textiles, building materials, bioplastics and more – estimated at $1 billion in 2018, are projected to grow 27% annually to reach $2.6 billion by 2022. Global hemp retail sales totaled $3.7 billion in 2018 and are projected to grow to $5.7 billion by 2020.
The passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, commonly known as the Farm Bill, in late December was nothing less than historic, legalizing for the first time in more than 80 years the commercial cultivation and sale of industrial hemp. “Most importantly, noted journalist Chris Chafin in Rolling Stone, “it removes hemp and any hemp derivative from the Controlled Substances Act, legally separating it from marijuana and putting its supervision under the Department of Agriculture. In the most basic sense, these plants serve three primary uses: fiber (paper and cloth), seeds (for hemp oil and food), and cannabinoid oils. It’s this last category that’s the most profitable and has the biggest potential for growth. The [Farm Bill] defines hemp as any part or derivative of cannabis with a THC level below 0.3 percent on a dry-weight basis,” Chafin reported.
Hemp Steals the Show at Expo West
Interest in the category was so strong at 2019 Natural Products Expo West that a full-day Hemp & CBD Summit held at the show spilled out beyond a 500-person ballroom into two other rooms where a similar-sized audience watched by live video feed. Also, during a panel discussion hosted by Presence Marketing and NCG at Expo West for over 150 retailers, CBD and hemp supply chain (e.g., ensuring that the full spectrum hemp extract products you carry are sourced from certified organic producers, etc.) dominated the discussion.
Full spectrum hemp and CBD products from new and national brands alike were introduced everywhere at the trade show: carob snacks with hemp extract from Missy J’s; CBD sparkling water from Weller; hemp-infused honey from Colorado Hemp Honey; CBD wellness shooters introduced by Navitas; organic full-spectrum hemp extract from Gaia Herbs, Charlotte’s Web, CV Sciences and others; hemp supplements by Leaf Therapeutics, a new brand launched by legacy brand Solaray; hemp gummies and caramels from Boulder-based Restorative Botanicals; CBD sports nutrition, hemp balms, hemp infused body care products and more. Honestly, what didn’t have CBD hemp extract at Expo West?
And that’s not to mention hemp foods derived from hemp seed – high in plant-based protein and omega-3 essential fatty acids, but with no CBD or cannabinoid compounds. Sold for over 20 years in natural foods stores, hemp seed-derived products are now widely regarded as superfoods. Brands such as Tempt, Manitoba Harvest, Evo Hemp and others presented new hemp food offerings at Expo West, capitalizing on heightened interest in all things hemp.
CBD or Hemp Extract?
The FDA may yet come out against use of the term “CBD.” While the agency is expected to review CBD and hemp extracts in food and supplements in the near future, according to outgoing FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, CBD isolate was approved as a drug by the agency after granting license for Epidiolex, the first pharmaceutical derived from cannabidiol (CBD), manufactured by the company GW Pharmaceuticals. The commissioner had recently spoken of a “pathway” to acceptance of hemp CBD as a dietary ingredient. However, with Gottlieb announcing his resignation in early March, many in the natural products industry are uncertain whether progress on FDA regulatory policy regarding hemp and CBD will be made.
However, judging from exhibit after exhibit on the trade show floor, you wouldn’t know the regulatory waters around the use of the term “CBD” are murky. For many exhibitors at Expo West, “CBD” was the go-to phrase on product packaging, literature and exhibit signage, while others more conservatively stuck to the phrase “full-spectrum hemp extract.”
Despite FDA’s lack of a decision to date in this regard, manufacturers, retailers and consumers alike are responding positively to the use of CBD on the product label, and are not waiting for FDA to decide. This could be an issue down the road for many manufacturers, should the FDA decide to crack down on use of CBD on labels. The key, advised a number of speakers at the show, is avoid the use of CBD isolate in products and stick with full-spectrum hemp extract to avoid unwanted attention from the FDA.
While "it’s still unclear how different federal agencies will interpret the new [Farm Bill] rules...it doesn’t matter — people in the CBD industry are calling the new legislation a game changer," observed Chafin in Rolling Stone.
Transparency and Testing Are Crucial
A major theme at Expo West’s Hemp & CBD Summit focused on manufacturers operating with safety and integrity, noted CBD Insider in a March 9, 2019, report. “To preserve integrity, businesses must always test their products, especially in these six areas: cannabinoid potency, residual solvents, heavy metals, pesticides, microbes, and terpenes. After this testing is complete and the products are verifiably ready for consumption, companies should be transparent with their testing and provide documentation of third-party lab results. Companies — and consumers — must do their homework and ask questions. If a laboratory, farmer, brand, or any other entity in the supply chain is not willing to be transparent, it’s a sign that you should do business elsewhere. Many of the speakers discussed how they personally vet businesses before working with them, such as requiring documentation or personally visiting the company’s facility,” reported CBD Insider.
In addition, and importantly, retailers and consumers should seek out hemp products that are grown in accordance with certified organic and preferably climate friendly regenerative practices, emphasized John Roulac, founder of Nutiva and RE: Botanicals, a new hemp “apothecary,” which debuted at Expo West. Beware of low-cost hemp extract products that may have been produced with industrial agriculture practices including toxic, synthetic pesticides and synthetic nitrogen fertilizers derived from natural gas and fracking – contributors to global warming – and extracted with toxic organic solvents, he cautioned.
U.S. Hemp Acreage – 80,000 Acres and Growing
Although hemp is now legal across the U.S., the message seems to be getting out slowly, and state and local authorities are still seizing hemp crops and truckers are being arrested for crossing state lines with container loads of harvested industrial hemp for processing, tying up individuals in jail and leaving valuable inventory in limbo.
Currently, nine states – Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, Ohio, South Dakota, Iowa, Texas, and Connecticut – still prohibit hemp production under any circumstances. And four states – Idaho, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas – still prohibit hemp-derived CBD. “For now, transporting hemp across these state lines may still be as dangerous as it’s ever been,” reported science writer Leo Bear-McGuiness in Analytical Cannabis.
Yet, “damn the torpedoes,” U.S. farmers are saying, as they respond to soaring demand by dedicating farmland to hemp cultivation, seeing it as a potential cash crop and an alternative to growing GMO corn, soy, tobacco and other commodity crops.
According to hemp advocacy group Vote Hemp, the U.S. hemp crop tripled in 2018 to 78,176 acres, up from 25,713 acres in hemp cultivation in 2017. That figure is expected to grow now that the Farm Bill has opened the door nationwide to hemp production, says Vote Hemp. Montana emerged as the top hemp growing state in 2018, followed by Colorado, Oregon, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina and North Dakota, respectively, according to Vote Hemp.
Learn More
Let’s Talk Hemp – a leading newsletter and podcast by the producer of NoCo Hemp Expo and Southern Hemp Expo
Hemp Business Journal – strategic data and information for the hemp industry
Hemp Industry Daily – news, market research and trade information
Organic Trade Association’s Organic Week – May 20-23, 2019, Washington, DC, featuring a track on organic hemp production
Southern Hemp Expo – September 6-7, 2019, Nashville, TN, the largest exhibition and conference of hemp industry professionals in the East
Natural Products Expo East – September 11-14, 2019, Baltimore, MD, presenting the Natural Products Hemp & CBD Summit
Vote Hemp – representing hemp producers and advocating for hemp policy and regulation
Denver to Host World’s Largest Gathering of Hemp Industry Professionals
Originally Appeared in Let’s Talk Hemp Newsletter, March 2019
By Steven Hoffman
Hemp is changing the world, and as sales take off for all things hemp – from full spectrum hemp extract and CBD products to foods, textiles, building materials, plastics and more – nearly 10,000 producers, investors, entrepreneurs and others will converge on March 28-30, 2019, at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center in Denver, Colorado, for the 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo.
NoCo Hemp Expo is the largest gathering of hemp industry professionals under one roof. The highly anticipated event includes an expert lineup of speakers plus a pre-conference Investors Forum on March 28, and full day events including a Business Conference on March 29 and Farm Symposium on March 30. An expanded exhibit hall is open for B2B visitors on March 29-30, and to the public on Saturday, March 30. Visit here for ticket info.
Program Highlights
Featured speakers for this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo include Colorado Governor and hemp advocate Jared Polis; Native American tribal leader turned hemp farmer Winona LaDuke; David Bronner, 5th generation CEO of legendary soap maker Dr. Bronner’s; renowned market researcher Dr. Michelle Barry; regenerative agriculture and soil expert Ray Archuleta; hemp expert and author Doug Fine; hemp entrepreneurs Dani Billings of Nature’s Root and Janel Ralph of Palmetto Harmony; and other leaders breaking new ground in the industrial hemp market. For a complete list of speakers, visit here and for a full program schedule, visit here. Other event highlights include:
Hemp Industry Daily Investor Forum, Thursday, March 28, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Legal updates and insights; investment trends and deal flow; opportunities and investments; networking; luncheon and more. Visit here for info.
Let’s Talk Hemp Business Conference, Friday, March 29, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Vertical integration; policy and regulation; compliance and certification; processing and manufacturing; market research; the global business of hemp. Visit here for info.
Let’s Talk Hemp Farm Symposium, Saturday, March 30, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Regenerative farming; soil health; genetics; new technology and equipment; regulations and compliance. Visit here for info.
Expo Hall, Friday and Saturday, March 29-30, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
With more than 225 exhibitors, NoCo6’s Expo Hall is open to B2B visitors on March 29 and March 30. The Expo Hall is open to consumers and the public on March 30. Features include an Equipment Zone, International Alley, Science & Tech Spotlight, Workshop Stage, Fashion Parade, Art Zone and more. Visit here for info.
After Party, Saturday, March 30, 8:00 pm – Midnight
Hang with friends at the Hemp Renaissance Ball After Party on Saturday, March 30, 8:00 pm – midnight at the Renaissance Hotel – Denver Stapleton. Buy tickets here.
Press Conference, Friday, March 29, 9:00 am – 9:45 am
For media attendees, NoCo Hemp Expo will host a press conference on Friday, March 29, 2019, onsite at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center at 9:00 – 9:45 am, before the conference and exhibition hall opens. To qualify for a Press Pass, journalists, editors and media must complete a press application here.
“We are truly excited to have top leaders, founders and luminaries in the hemp industry participate in and support this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo,” said Morris Beegle, co-founder of Colorado Hemp Company, producer of NoCo6. “With more than 25,000 industrial uses, hemp is a gift to humanity and the environment. We have an incredible opportunity to build the kind of sustainable, regenerative, socially responsible marketplace we want, and NoCo Hemp Expo is where the hemp community convenes to plan and prepare for a bright future.”
Giving Back
NoCo6 provides support to nonprofit organizations including save-the-bees group Bee Heroic; hemp education group the Jack Herer Foundation; and Hemp History Week, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, June 3-9, 2019.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
GenCanna™, is the Presenting Sponsor of NoCo6. Other sponsors include Ambary Gardens, Botanical Rush, Canalysis Laboratories, CV Sciences, Enerhealth Botanicals, Extract Labs, Front Range BioSciences, Hawthorne Gardening, Hempsac, Ingenuity Beverages, Isolate Extraction Systems, Lazarus Naturals, Lilu’s Garden, New West Genetics, ProVerde Laboratories, Pure Hemp Botanicals, RAD Extracts, and Frank Robinson Law Group. Meet all of our Sponsor Partners here: https://nocohempexpo.com/sponsors/.
Tickets Are On Sale Now
Tickets are available for the Pre-Conference Hemp Industry Daily Investment Forum, Let’s Talk Hemp Business Conference, Let’s Talk Hemp Farm Symposium and B2B Industry Day in the Expo Hall. For all ticket levels, information and to purchase tickets, visit our website.
About the NoCo Hemp Expo
The 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo is produced by the Colorado Hemp Company, a division of WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives), based in Loveland, CO. WAFBA also is the producer of the 2nd Annual Southern Hemp Expo and founder of TreeFreeHemp paper and printing services. Areas of focus include product and brand development, event production, consulting and advocacy. Visit NocoHempExpo.com, or visit our YouTube Channel for a video about #NoCo6. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter, #NoCo6.
Gaia Herbs Unveils Modern New Look and Three Innovative Product Lines at Natural Products Expo West 2019
Premium Herbal Supplements Leader Launches Hemp, Nootropics and Mushrooms & Herbs Functional Powder Lines; Reveals New Modern Consumer-Tested Packaging Design
BREVARD, N.C. (March 7, 2019) – Gaia Herbs, the leading herbal brand in North America, will unveil its new, modern packaging and three new product lines: Hemp, Nootropics, and Mushroom & Herbs Functional Powders, at Natural Products Expo West on March 7 – 9. Expo West attendees will be among the first to experience these exciting new innovations and are invited to visit Gaia Herbs booth #4139 for samples and additional information.
“As a brand that has been a pioneer in the herbal industry for more than three decades, we are excited to reveal our new packaging at Expo West. Our new design further reinforces our mission of connecting plants and people with beautiful close-up images of the heroes of our supplements—the herbs. We are proud to have developed the design completely in-house, leveraging the talent of Gaia Herbs’ visionary Brand Experience team. In addition to our new look, we will also be introducing our latest innovative products that will help people on their wellness journeys,” said Elena Lécué, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Gaia Herbs. “We are particularly excited about our new Hemp line. Due to the recent passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (also known as the 2018 Farm Bill), which removed all parts of the Hemp plant from being categorized as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States, the marketplace is seeing an influx of Hemp products of varying quality. As the leading herbal brand, Gaia Herbs is proud to be bringing a new Hemp line to the market of the quality that consumers have come to expect from our brand, that is fully traceable to the source at meetyourherbs.com®, our comprehensive transparency program. In addition to that, Gaia Hemp extract is made from sun-grown American Hemp flowers, ensuring that people can feel confident buying Hemp from a brand they love and trust. We will also be debuting our new Nootropics line, featuring Gaia-grown™ Bacopa, and three new functional blends of Mushrooms & Herbs, providing support for cognitive, energy, and immune health.”*
The three new product lines transform Nature's wisdom into herbal formulas, combining science and tradition to create proprietary blends rooted in purity, potency, and integrity. Additional product details include:
Hemp: As pioneers and leaders in the herbal industry for over thirty years, Gaia Herbs is committed to producing some of the highest quality plant-based herbal supplements in the world, delivering the full expression of Nature. Gaia Herbs is pleased to introduce two new Hemp products: Hemp Full Spectrum Extract 10 mg and Hemp Full Spectrum Extract 20 mg — bringing our same reverence for plants and focus on quality to our new Hemp line.
Gaia Herbs Full Spectrum Hemp Extract contains less than 0.2% THC and is made with sun-grown American Hemp flowers. Gaia chose to use the Hemp flowers as they are known to be the main source of cannabinoids compared to other parts of the Hemp plant. Unlike products with isolated CBD, Gaia’s full spectrum Hemp oil contains a wide array of cannabinoids representing the synergy naturally found in the Hemp plant.
Through Gaia’s industry-leading Meet Your Herbs® traceability program, people can enter the ID number located on the back of their Gaia Herbs Full Spectrum Hemp Extract and learn where the Hemp came from; how it was grown, harvested and extracted; and the tests it underwent to validate its purity, integrity, and potency. Gaia Herbs is one of the few companies producing Hemp products in the world that allows you to do this for a simple reason: Gaia has nothing to hide and everything to share.
Gaia Herbs Hemp is available in two liquid potencies based on cannabinoids per serving. SRP $44.99 (10mg/mL, 1oz), $79.99 (10mg/mL, 2oz), $79.99 (20mg/mL, 1oz), and $129.99 (20mg/mL, 2oz). As a Certified B Corporation® dedicated to using business as a force for good™, Gaia Herbs is excited to announce that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of all Gaia Herbs Hemp products will be donated to support U.S. family farmers.
Nootropics: Nootropics — supplements that support mental performance — can play an important role in maintaining cognitive health.* Gaia Herbs Nootropics line offers all the powerful benefits of Nootropics as Nature intended, using traditional herbs to nourish your mind, so you can live your very best life.* The three products in this new line include:
Bacopa: Made with Gaia-grown™ Bacopa to promote a healthy, thriving mind.* When Gaia was unable to find Bacopa that met their rigorous quality standards, the company began a three-year cultivation process to grow its own Bacopa crop, becoming one of the only U.S. grown sources for this Ayurvedic herb. SRP $17.99 (60ct)
Agile Mind: Made with Bacopa, Turmeric and Ginkgo— a synergistic formula that supports healthy brain function and helps maintain healthy recall.* SRP $41.99 (60ct)
Nootropic Focus: Made with Saffron, Spearmint and Lemon Balm to support healthy concentration to keep up with life’s demands.* SRP $18.99 (20ct), $34.99 (40ct)
Mushrooms & Herbs Functional Powders: Nourish your body with Mushrooms & Herbs. Using Mushroom fruiting bodies harvested at the peak of their potency, Gaia Herbs Mushroom & Herbs Powders can be added to coffee, a smoothie, milk, or any other beverage of choice so people can get all of the health benefits of organic Mushrooms & Herbs in a convenient and easy-to-use format with no added fillers, flavors, or sweeteners. SRP ranges from $34.99 to $39.99. The three products in this new line include:
Mind Spring: Made with a blend of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Turmeric, Holy Basil, Gotu Kola, and Ginkgo to support brain health and recall.*
Energy Thrive: Formulated with a blend of Cordyceps, Maca, Rhodiola, Schisandra, Shiitake, Ashwagandha, and Astragalus to promote energy and to support physical performance and endurance.*
Immune Shine: Made with a blend of Maitake, Chaga, Astragalus, Elderberry, and Ginger to support immune health and natural immune defenses.*
Gaia Herbs products are sold through natural and independently owned health food stores across the nation as well as through trusted online retail sites and GaiaHerbs.com. To find a store near you, visit GaiaHerbs.com/stores. For additional information about Gaia Herbs organic, ethically harvested herbal products, please visit GaiaHerbs.com and Gaia’s MeetYourHerbs® traceability platform. For press inquiries relating to Expo West, please contact Alyssa@rkpr.net.
About Gaia Herbs
Since 1987, Gaia Herbs has been connecting plants and people to nurture health and well-being. Today, Gaia Herbs is the leading herbal brand in North America with more than 200 liquid extracts, functional powders, teas, and patented Liquid Phyto-Caps™. Our dedication to quality and integrity is unparalleled and meticulously proven by science. We use organic methods to cultivate more than 6.5 million plants each year on our farm and we screen the plants in our analytical laboratory to pinpoint the exact right time to harvest and extract in our state of-the-art processing facility. All of that leads to products exceptional in their purity and integrity. We offer the industry’s first comprehensive herb traceability program, meetyourherbs.com®, which allows us to share complete transparency with our customers. We are proud to be a Certified B Corporation® Using Business as a Force for Good™. Our mission to nurture healthy connections with nature extends beyond our herbs through Gaia Cares, which champions environmental and social sustainability on our farm, our community, and around the world. Learn more at GaiaHerbs.com and join in the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
David Bronner, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and Other Leaders in Natural Products and Industrial Hemp to Speak at 6th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo, March 28-30, in Denver
For Presence Marketing Newsletter, March 2019
By Steven Hoffman
Photo: Dr. Bronner’s
Hemp industry and natural products pioneer David Bronner, Cosmic Engagement Officer (CEO) of the 5th generation soap company Dr. Bronner’s, will be a featured keynote speaker at the upcoming NoCo Hemp Expo (NoCo6), March 28-30, 2019, at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center in Denver.
In addition, Colorado’s newly elected Governor Jared Polis, who in his first State of the State speech in January 2019 announced his plan to “make good on the promise of industrial hemp,” will be a featured speaker at NoCo6.
Now in its 6th year, NoCo Hemp Expo is the largest gathering of hemp industry professionals under one roof. Approximately 8,000-10,000 attendees, including investors, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, farmers, producers, retailers and other leaders in hemp are expected to attend the 2019 event to participate a newly added pre-conference Hemp Industry Daily Investor's Forum on March 28, plus a full-day Business Conference, Farm Symposium and expanded Exhibition Hall open to professionals on March 29-30. Additionally, tickets are available to the public to visit the Expo Hall on Saturday, March 30.
A tireless advocate for cannabis legalization and numerous other social justice and environmental causes, David Bronner will address the opportunities and challenges facing the hemp industry and how to navigate business growth in an exploding market, as industrial hemp is now legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. David’s talk, scheduled for Saturday, March 30, also will address hemp’s key role in regenerative organic agriculture to help rebuild soils, sequester carbon and mitigate climate change.
Photo: State of Colorado
Governor Polis, an Internet entrepreneur, educational leader, former U.S. Congressman and Colorado native, is a longtime supporter of the hemp and cannabis industries. He advocated for expungement of non-violent cannabis-related criminal records, expansion of Colorado’s medical marijuana program and non-cooperation with enforcement of federal prohibition during his campaign. Governor Polis even had the programs for his inauguration on January 8 printed on hemp paper.
“Hemp is an amazingly versatile crop, and I’m proud to see Colorado’s rural communities leading the way to unleash its untapped economic potential,” he said during the campaign. “As Governor, I’ll support our farmers and innovators who want to develop industrial hemp—and I’ll tell the federal government to stay out of their way.”
The hemp industry is poised for exponential growth now that this incredibly useful plant is legal to grow and sell in the U.S. for the first time in over 80 years, and is expected to reach $4 billion in sales by 2022. Visit www.nocohempexpo.com.
NuLeaf Naturals, Leading Provider of CBD Wellness Products, Expands Nationally to 1,600+ Retail Locations; Will Feature Brand at Natural Products Expo West
Visit NuLeaf Naturals at Booth N1735, North Hall, in the Hot Products section at Natural Products Expo West, March 6-8, 2019, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA.
Denver, CO (February 27, 2019) – NuLeaf Naturals, a leading manufacturer of whole-plant CBD wellness products, is quickly gaining traction in the natural products channel and has been invited once again to exhibit at the world’s largest natural products trade show, Natural Products Expo West, March 6-9, 2019, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA.
The brand was founded in 2014 and has national distribution in more than 1,600 retail locations across the United States including New Seasons Market in Oregon, Westerly Natural Market in New York, Jungle Jim’s in Ohio, Alfalfa’s Market in Colorado, and many other prominent natural products stores nationwide. For retail locations, visit here.
“NuLeaf is our most popular CBD product,” said Organic Food Depot Manager Jim Jacobs “We love it.” Westerly Market located in the heart of New York City echoed similar thoughts, "NuLeaf is our best-selling CBD oil brand.” According to New Seasons Market, "Customers love that the product is highly concentrated and contains no additives.”
Wholesale inquiries are welcome. Please contact NuLeaf Naturals, tel 720.372.4842, email contact@nuleafnaturals.com
Visit NuLeaf Naturals and sample its full line of CBD wellness products and dietary supplements at Booth N1735, North Hall, in the Hot Products section at Natural Products Expo West, March 6-8, 2019, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA.
About NuLeaf Naturals
Founded in 2014 by a group of health-conscious plant medicine aficionados, NuLeaf Naturals is one of America's top pioneering hemp companies. The company vision is to continue to create cannabinoid wellness products that promote a healthy body and mind and to help people and their loved ones live a happier, healthier life. NuLeaf Naturals CBD oil is 100% organic and contains all the synergistic cannabinoids, terpenes, essential oils, and other beneficial phytonutrients of the original plant. The brand is committed to providing the highest quality products in their most pure and simple form. Visit www.NuLeafNaturals.com, email contact@NuLeafNaturals.com.