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The Role of Nanoemulsification Equipment in Cannabis Beverage Processing

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David Shechter
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Nov 29, 2021
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1
min read

Nanoemulsification is the process by which a nanoemulsion is created. And a nanoemulsion is the combination of two immiscible liquids (such as water and oil) with particles less than 500 nm in diameter. Nanoemulsification equipment, then, is any tool that can be used to effectively create nanoemulsions. There aren’t very many of them, and some work better than others. For specialty jobs in a highly aggressive market, like cannabis-infused beverages, the nanoemulsification equipment that yields the absolute smallest-sized particles enables cannabinoid product manufacturers to gain valuable market share, offering cannabinoid drinks that deliver a faster, more potent effect than those of their competitors. Take a look at the reasons nanoemulsification equipment is needed — and why high pressure homogenizers are the best option — for cannabis beverage processing:

Nanoemulsification Equipment is the Only Way to Ensure Maximum Bioavailability and Efficiency in Cannabis Beverages

THC and CBD are two types of chemical compounds commonly found in cannabis products. Respectively, they are known for their euphoric or sedative effects, but only when absorbed by the body in some way. However, as fat-soluble molecules, neither THC nor CBD is easily nor quickly digestible if simply ingested in their natural state. Instead, the body has to move the cannabinoids through the digestion system, using bile and various enzymes along the way to break them into tiny particles that can then be more readily absorbed. In this way, the body itself basically has to create a nanoemulsion in order to allow the oil-based molecules in cannabinoids to be absorbed into the body.  It works…but it’s slow, delaying the body’s reaction to the various cannabinoid compounds, as well as never consistently guaranteeing the same type of effects. 

Using nanoemulsification during processing (i.e., before ingestion) solves the problem. By breaking down the cannabinoid oils with nanoemulsion equipment before they are imbibed, cannabis product manufacturers are able to mix teeny, tiny cannabinoid particles into a stable liquid phase (meaning they don’t settle to the bottom of the bottle). Fully and evenly dispersing the cannabinoids into a beverage ensures that the body immediately absorbs it, providing a more consistent product that always looks and works the same.

The BEE International Advantage

Our high pressure homogenizers here at BEE International are the only type of nanoemulsification equipment that can consistently create the tightest distribution of smallest-sized particles. Unlike other nanoemulsification equipment (such as sonicators and microfluidizers) that only utilize one type of mechanical force, BEE International high pressure homogenizers make use of a proprietary and patented Emulsifying Cell (EC) technology which combines multiple types of forces (shear, cavitation and impact) to more effectively break apart and mix the particles in a substance. Furthermore, our HPHs can be customized according to the job at hand. When making cannabis-infused beverages, for instance, manufacturers can adjust the combination of forces, as well as the intensity and duration of their application, so that cannabinoids are rendered to their smallest possible size in less passes. Please contact us to learn more.

You might also like to download our free eBook, “3 Reasons Why High Pressure Homogenization Improves Cannabis Products,” here.

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