The Coca-Cola Company admitted it is taking a hard look at the use of cannabis in drinks after reports emerged that the company was in talks to develop a health drink infused with cannabidiol, a compound from the cannabis plant.
Coca-Cola was rumored to be talking to Aurora Cannabis, a Canadian company that saw its shares leap 17 percent on the Toronto Stock Exchange following the reports, the Associated Press reported. Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis that is believed to have pain-relieving properties, according to the AP.
However, Coca-Cola attempted to temper the rumors Monday.
“We have no interest in marijuana or cannabis. Along with many others in the beverage industry, we are closely watching the growth of non-psychoactive CBD as an ingredient in functional wellness beverages around the world,” Coa-Cola said in a statement Monday. “The space is evolving quickly. No decisions have been made at this time.”
Coca-Cola’s interest in the space is indicative of growing mainstream acceptance of cannabis products across different industries, particularly as they relate to health.
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Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."