UTILIZATION OF CANNABIS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMMERCIAL HEALTH PRODUCTS FOR COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES, MAHA SARAKHAM PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: 1) Study the appropriate and safe utilization of cannabis without causing toxicity to the body; 2) Develop a prototype of a cannabis-based health product for community enterprises; and 3) Transfer knowledge and technology for the commercialization of the product. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The population consisted of medical personnel, community enterprise entrepreneurs, and local residents in Maha Sarakham Province. A sample group of 74 individuals was selected using purposive sampling, divided into 34 qualitative key informants and 40 participants for quantitative and action research evaluation. The research instruments included in-depth interview forms (IOC = 0.67 - 1.00), acceptance and satisfaction evaluation forms (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.85 - 0.88), and knowledge tests. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and content analysis. The research findings revealed that: 1) Regarding cannabis utilization, the community valued it as a traditional herbal medicine. Dried cannabis leaves of the Hang Krarok Phu Phan variety contained 0.52% Δ9-THC and 0.13% CBD, which are safe for the body, leading to the decision to develop cannabis-infused fermented fish sauce. 2) In terms of product development, a boiled cannabis-infused fermented fish sauce was formulated containing 0.22 grams of Δ9-THC per serving, which passed the safety criteria of the Ministry of Public Health. It received a very good level of sensory acceptance in terms of taste. Furthermore, commercial packaging was developed to eliminate the negative image associated with narcotics. 3) Concerning technology transfer, it was found that the application of a business model helped the community establish a clear marketing plan with a production cost of 62.50 baht per bottle. Additionally, the level of knowledge and understanding increased from a mean of 2.55 to 4.90, reflecting the success in elevating the community enterprise towards commercialization.