Coca Cola has confirmed it is interested in exploring the possibilities of using a cannabis compound in some of its drinks.

Company spokesman Kent Landers said no decision had been made to enter that specific market but admitted it was "closely watching" how the sector was evolving.

"Along with many others in the beverage industry, we are closely watching the growth of non-psychoactive CBD as an ingredient in functional wellness beverages around the world. The space is evolving quickly," he said.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, does not produce the high normally associated with marijuana.

It is believed by many to have anti-inflammation and pain-relieving properties, and numerous CBD-infused products have emerged recently.


Coca Cola's statement follows reports that it had been discussing a tie-up with the Canadian marijuana company Aurora Cannabis to produce a health drink.

Interest in the sector from one of the world's most famous brands is another indication of growing corporate acceptance of cannabis products and how Canada is likely to play a central role in future developments.

Cannabis becomes legal in Canada on 17 October and American companies have been investing heavily in marijuana producers north of the border.

Constellation Brands, a giant spirits company that counts Corona beer among its labels, bought a multibillion-dollar minority stake in Canopy Growth, a Canadian medical marijuana producer.