Local coffee shop introduces a creative treat containing cannabidiol oil

You go to get a latte to feel the sweet rush of caffeine that enables you to finish studying for your exams before finals. But what if that same latte could help reduce your acne, soothe your joints and ease your anxiety? Owner and barista of Marquette’s Velodrome Coffee Co. Brice Sturmer sat down to explain the newest Cannabidiol, or CBD, latte offered at his shop.

The lemongrass and citrus espresso drink is enhanced with 10 milligrams of mint flavored CBD oil sourced from the company Healed+. CBD is a non-psychoactive chemical compound from the cannabis plant, meaning you will not get high from ingesting it, as there is no THC. The sustainable company offers an organic, THC free and GMO-free form of CBD oil that is sourced in Utah.

The 2018 Michigan midterm elections brought the legalization of recreational marijuana with the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act. In February, Marquette’s City Council decided against approving recreational marijuana storefronts, as there was a concern that this CBD infused latte could set the towns political climate ablaze. Velodrome was thrilled to learn that the Marquette community has been incredibly positive, with many customers excited to try the unique drink, Sturmer said.

“We’re a progressive brand [store]. We try to listen to our market and do things in a relevant manner,” Sturmer said. “I think overall for us it’s not just an awesome product and people love it, but also I hope that it shows that our brand is innovative and we are not afraid to do new things.”
Hosanna Olah, Marquette resident, expressed her interest.

“The drink itself was more impressive than the CBD component, the lemon being an acid mixing with the natural acidity of coffee was a great combination,” Olah said.

During the Coffee Crawl that occurred last weekend, students and locals flooded the tiny shop, some choosing to order the unique latte along with their blonde roast sample. Freshman environmental science major Mya Curth attended the event while stopping in Velodrome to check out the new latte drink.

“I like to see that Marquette is opening its doors to the healing powers of the cannabinoid oil,” Curth said.

She expressed her desire to come back and try the latte after the crawl. Velodrome Co hopes that continued innovation of CBD infused products will broaden Marquette’s view on embracing society’s acceptance of using alternative holistic and medicinal products.