cbdMD Strengthens Regulatory Science Platform to Support Emerging Regulatory Cannabinoid Evaluation Pathways

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), a leading innovator in hemp-derived wellness products, today announced a strategic initiative to integrate and expand its regulatory science, safety, and intellectual property assets to establish a differentiated cannabinoid compliance and evidence platform aligned with evolving federal healthcare evaluation frameworks, including emerging CMS and CMMI innovation initiatives.

The program combines scientific and regulatory assets acquired through cbdMD's recent acquisition of Bluebird Botanicals ("Bluebird") with cbdMD's existing clinical and toxicology foundation, creating what management believes is one of the most comprehensive safety and regulatory dossiers spanning both broad-spectrum and full-spectrum cannabinoid formulations.

In early January 2026, cbdMD acquired substantially all assets of Bluebird, a pioneer in hemp-derived wellness products known for scientific discipline and proactive regulatory engagement. While Bluebird represents an estimated 10% step in revenue growth, among the acquired assets is Bluebird's established self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) determination for a full-spectrum hemp extract containing naturally occurring THC—one of the industry's most established safety evaluations for a full-spectrum cannabinoid formulation.

The acquisition builds upon cbdMD's own science-backed platform, including peer-reviewed human clinical research supporting the safety and efficacy of its proprietary broad-spectrum cannabidiol formulations, as well as extensive preclinical and sub chronic toxicology work.

Integrated GRAS and Regulatory Science Program

As part of cbdMD's strategic initiative and in furtherance of the Bluebird acquisition, cbdMD is launching an integrated GRAS and regulatory science program to consolidate, modernize, and strengthen its combined science portfolio. Importantly, the program is expected to be executed primarily through cbdMD's internal scientific, quality, and regulatory organization, enabling efficient advancement of high-value regulatory assets with minimal reliance on costly outside consultants.

Key objectives include the preparation of a new self-affirmed GRAS determination for cbdMD's broad-spectrum formulations and continued strengthening of Bluebird's existing full-spectrum GRAS dossier under a unified regulatory strategy.

"We are intentionally building a durable regulatory-grade foundation designed for the next era of federal regulation and scrutiny and opportunity," said Ronan Kennedy, CEO of cbdMD. "By integrating Bluebird's established GRAS work with cbdMD's clinical and toxicology platform—and advancing both through a highly cost-efficient internal regulatory science strategy—we believe cbdMD is well-positioned to engage credibly with regulators, the medical community, and healthcare innovation stakeholders as CMS and CMMI evaluation frameworks continue to evolve."

About cbdMD, Inc.

cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is one of the leading and most recognized cannabidiol (CBD) brands, offering a comprehensive line of U.S.-produced THC-free¹ CBD products and an array of Farm Act-compliant Delta-9 products. The Company also operates Bluebrid Botanicals, Paw CBD, ATRx Labs, and Herbal Oasis, a premium THC-infused functional social seltzer. Learn more at cbdmd.com , www.pawcbd.com, www.bluebirdbotanicals.com, ATRxlabs.com, or Herbaloasis.com, follow cbdMD on Instagram and Facebook, or visit one of the thousands of retail outlets that carry cbdMD's products.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements, estimates, forecasts, and projections regarding future performance and events that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Those statements include statements regarding expectations from the integration of Bluebird Botanicals, evolving federal regulation, anticipated long-term growth strategy, potential efficiencies resulting from the Bluebird Botanicals acquisition and Bluebird Botanicals IP.  These statements may be identified by the use of words like "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "will," "should," and "seek," and similar expressions and include any financial projections or estimates or pro forma financial information set forth herein.  Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.  Important factors and risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include, but are not limited to, regulatory issues, IP development, unexpected issues with integrating the two companies, and customer acceptance of our product offerings, as well as those risks detailed in our filings with the SEC, including our most recent Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC.

¹ THC-free is defined as below the level of detection using validated scientific analytical methods.

Contact Information:
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected] 
(704) 445-3064 

SOURCE cbdMD, Inc.