A survey of 650 professional chefs was carried out by The National Restaurant Association and the American Culinary Federation, asking chefs about the top cannabis culinary concepts for restaurants in 2019. Studies found that 3 out of 4 chefs said that cannabis-infused foods would be a hot trend this year.
Despite all the interest that chefs may have in CBD infused foods, it does not mean that you will see them in restaurants any time soon. Cannabis is still illegal and legalized in 10 states for recreational purposes. The FDA must approve cannabis-infused products for human or animal consumption.
Restaurants and cannabis-infused foods and drinks
Restaurants are opting to use high-end clubs that offer upscale cannabis-infused dishes, as to avoid facing scrutiny. Despite the legalization of marijuana in 2018, Canadian edibles won’t be legal until October.
Wealthy consumers in states where recreational use is legal (Washington, Colorado) are hiring personal chefs who specialize in marijuana-infused dishes. Some restaurants have not stopped selling CBD-infused foods despite the risk involved due to the high demand. Many chefs understand that CBD helps to relieve pain and relax the body, and not just give a euphoric high like THC. Restaurant chains are, however, shying away from CBD-infused products until proper regulation on the matter is addressed.
Most places that are dealing with CBD infused products focus on beverages like mocktails and lattes. In response to this trend, local regulators have been cracking down on restaurants that use CBD in their foods and drinks. New York Health department ordered restaurants to stop adding the cannabis compound to food and beverages. Despite most CBD products legalized when the president signed a farm bill into law.
