The gummy and tablet formats have long been used to deliver beneficial ingredients, and that includes cannabis.

Maryland’s Curio Wellness has taken it a step further, offering chews and tablets designed with specific effects in mind.

Cannabis Products Insider recently spoke with Sandra Hutson, VP of product innovation, about Curio Wellness’ approach to product development, creating products to serve certain need cases, and how terpenes can be used to target different effects.

CPI: How does Curio Wellness approach product development for cannabis edibles?

SH: Curio is committed to continuous product research and innovation, stemming from our mission to develop targeted therapeutics that are safe, effective and reliable for consumers seeking alternative, plant-based relief. Through our scientific approach, we aim to reimagine the way cannabis is delivered to those who need it most. Curio’s Scientific Advisory Board works in tandem with our product innovation team to develop products with science-backed testing procedures and pharmaceutical grade technology. 

CPI: Why does Curio Wellness create products with targeted effects and doses in mind?

SH: One of the cornerstones of Curio is challenging ourselves to find new, innovative solutions to improve quality of life. We want to harness the therapeutics of cannabis into products that correlate directly to problems people are trying to solve — insomnia, GI issues, aches and pains, mood correction and so on. Most recently, we figured out how to harness the benefits of terpenes in a chew and now have a patent-pending product. Our extensive product portfolio is designed to help address a variety of concerns across a wide array of customers.

CPI: What was the inspiration behind the terpene-infused chews? What role can terpenes play in tailoring specific consumer effects?

SH: Unlike other market brands whose terpene levels are too small to be detected, Curio’s products utilize an extensively researched, patent-pending infusion method and chew formulation to optimize the terpenes’ effectiveness. The terpene levels are present and prominent as validated by state-licensed, third-party test results, known as the Certificate of Analysis (COA). No other chews in the market confirm terpenes on their COA. This means that the presence of these proprietary terpene blends can provide the suggested effects. In creating our Terpene Chews, we wanted to create a product line that has an option for everyone. If a consumer is looking for a chew to get them through the day, or something to help them wind down when the day is over, there is a Terpene Infused Chew option for them.  

CPI: How does Curio Wellness approach flavor development and selection for its chews?

SH: After extensive research and development, Curio created a proprietary, patent-pending infusion method and chew formulation that unlocks the fullest terpene potential. We chose terpene blends that would provide repeatable and predictable effects and were able to demonstrate this reliability of experience during a patient trial. Not only did we discover how to incorporate terpenes into an effective chew, but we also retained delicious flavors that Curio is known for such as Juicy Watermelon, White Peach, Grapefruit Agave, Mango Ginger, Strawberry Basil and Black Cherry Vanilla.

CPI: What was the inspiration around the Good Day and Good Night tablets and chews? What has the consumer response been?

SH: The inspiration for the complementary product lines comes from Curio’s mission to help consumers find wellness in all aspects of their lives. Good Day tablets combine an ideal ratio of CBD, THC and THCV, specifically designed to help address stress and anxiety and promote focus and concentration. Good Night by Curio is a line of cannabis sleep aids infused with CO2 cannabis oil extracted exclusively from Curio Wellness flower. With the ideal formulations of CBN and THC, Good Night products promote healthy sleep. Both product lines consist of tablets, chews and vapes so consumers can choose the form factor that they most prefer. Our patented Good Night tablets were voted as the Reader’s Choice Best Medical Marijuana Product in Baltimore Sun’s 2023 competition and are among our best-selling products.

CPI: In general terms, can you describe the development process for the Good Night tablets? Can you describe the patented pulse-release technology?

SH: The science behind Good Night is guided by consumers and supported by pharmaceutical technology and clinical observation. Curio’s patented pulse-release technology doses in two stages, immediately and again in about three hours, to help support falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer. In partnership with SleepScore Labs, the Curio Wellness Scientific Board developed an independent study with medical cannabis patients to evaluate the efficacy of Good Night tablets. 74% of those surveyed reported a favorable change in their sleep experience.

CPI: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

SH: A collection of our finest Curio products will soon be available in dispensaries across Missouri.