What you need to know about CBD sparkling water

What: Recess Sparkling Water in two flavors, pom hibiscus and blackberry chai. (Recess also makes a peach-ginger version).

What’s behind the cryptic name? Recess alludes to the idea these sparkling waters are designed to dial back stress and gently boost energy, as they’re laced with CBD (cannabidiol), a compound derived from hemp that has no psychoactive effects. CBD is legally sold in most states, including New York; each can has 10 milligrams of CBD in the form of hemp extract. 

Why now? All things CBD, from tinctures to oils to edibles, have exploded in the last year, based on CBD’s reputation to help with anxiety and other ailments. Medical research into CBD is ongoing, but nevertheless, the market for CBD products will grow to $22 billion by 2020, according to marketing research firm, Brightfield Group.  CBD is being introduced into many of the foods and drinks we consume daily — for instance, Flux Coffee in Farmingdale sells CBD lattes. Recess sparkling waters, which launched in the fall of 2018, dovetail with the growing market for fizzy, functional drinks.

How do they taste? Like barely sweet, fruity seltzer. Both have a pale fuchsia tint. The pom hibiscus is gently drying with traces of citrus and lemongrass. The blackberry chai somehow manages to channel the character of hot chai into a chilled, fizzy drink, with distinct notes of cinnamon and clove. Both sparkling waters are lightly sweetened with cane sugar, boosted with ginseng, L-theanine  and an herb called schisandra, and have 25 calories per can.

What does it feel like to drink them? CBD is aimed at those looking for non-pharmaceutical solutions to fight anxiety, stress, insomnia and other ailments, and drinking a beverage laced with CBD can best be described as gently relaxing. The effect is subtle and mellowing.

How much does it cost? At $5 per 12-ounce can, it’s sort of like buying an expensive craft beer, sans the alcohol.  

Where can I find some? I purchased these cans at 7 Leaf Clover on Old Country Road, in Westbury, which also stocks a selection of CBD loose-leaf teas, as well as a range of CBD tinctures, gels, ointments and oils.