Recognizing an ethical and responsible CBD brand
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Reading time 4 min
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Reading time 4 min
CONTENTS
Behind the attractive packaging of CBD products, not all brands are created equal. So how can you tell the difference between a ethical and responsible CBD brand brand and one that is just riding the trend? La Mama explains how to spot the truly responsible brands.
The foundation of an ethical brand is transparency. When you consume CBD, you have the right to know where it comes from, how it is grown, and what it contains. A responsible brand hides nothing; on the contrary, it simply explains everything to you.
A reputable brand clearly states the origin of its hemp. Ideally, it comes from Europe (the United-Kingdom, Switzerland, Italy) where cultivation is regulated and THC levels are strictly controlled.
Ethical brandswork with certified producers, often engaged in organic farming, without pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Each harvest is tested and each variety is chosen for its specific properties. Some brands prefer to focus on an aromatic profile rich in terpenes, while others prefer high CBD levels for a more pronounced relaxing effect.
An honest brand always publishes its lab analyses. These documents, called certificates of analysis or COAs(Certificates of Analysis), detail the product's composition: CBD, THC, heavy metals, residual solvents, etc. You should be able to view them directly on the website or on the packaging via a QR code.
If a brand does not provide you with clear data or if the analyses are more than a year old, run away! Transparency is not marketing; it is proof of seriousness and respect for the consumer.
Being ethical isn't just about talking about well-being. It's also about taking action to respect the earth, those who cultivate it, and you who consume it.
A responsible brand often commits to an eco-responsible approach. For example:
Hemp is already an excellent green plant because it purifies the soil, consumes little water, and stores COâ, but some brands go even further by supporting local projects or working with committed cooperatives.
Some unscrupulous brands use aggressive solvents such as butane or propane, which can leave traces in the finished product.
Responsible brands prefer clean techniques such assupercritical COâ extraction supercriticalCOâextraction, which is certainly more expensive, but safer and more environmentally friendly.
They monitor every step to preserve the natural cannabinoids and terpenes without altering the plant. This attention to detail is reflected in the finished product, which has a smoother taste and purer texture.
Ethics is also in the details, such as recyclable glass bottles, biodegradable packaging, the use of vegetable-based inks, and carbon-neutral delivery. More and more brands are making efforts to reduce their ecological footprint, which is excellent news!
An ethical brand isn't one that promises you the moon. It's one that tells you the truth.
CBD is not a medicine. Even though it may have beneficial effects on stress, sleep, or pain, an honest brand uses the conditional tense and does not claim to cure anything.
Reputable brands will inform you about the potential effects of CBD without exaggerating. They will also advise you on dosages and methods of use, and encourage you to consult a healthcare professional if you have any doubts.
If a brand promises to "treat anxiety" or "cure insomnia," it's playing on your emotions. And Mama doesn't like that at all!
A responsible brand takes the time to educate you. It explains what CBD is, how it affects the body, the difference between full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate, and even the current legislation. Its goal is to empower you and give you confidence, not to confuse you with technical jargon.
You'll quickly sense when a brand speaks to you sincerely, without manipulating you or pushing you to overconsumeâthat's when you know it's one of the good ones.
Finally, a truly ethical brand thinks beyond the product. It gets involved in social or environmental causes: supporting farmers, donating to charities, being transparent about its margins, or even running recycling programs. Some even encourage more conscious consumption, reminding us that well-being is also a question of balance.
Remember that all of these tips also apply to recognizing high-quality CBD.