Why We Put Our Award Medals Right on Every Fresh Press Can

Award-Winning Excellence: Why We Put Our Medals Right on the Can

When we set out to create 23rd State, our vision was clear: craft premium cannabis beverages that elevate everyday moments without compromise. We wanted to build products so exceptional that they'd earn recognition not just from our customers, but from the industry's most discerning judges. That vision became reality when Fresh Press earned both Silver for Midwest America's Best Hemp Beverage and Bronze for National America's Best Hemp Beverage at the prestigious 2025 America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards.

These aren't participation trophies gathering dust in our office. These medals represent validation of everything we've poured into Fresh Press—from sourcing premium ingredients to perfecting our nanoemulsion technology. We're so proud of these achievements that we've placed them prominently on every can, because when you create something truly exceptional, you don't hide it. You celebrate it with everyone who reaches for your product.

The Significance of America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards

The America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards represents the gold standard of cannabis beverage competition. Unlike consumer popularity contests or marketing campaigns disguised as awards, this competition brings together expert judges who evaluate products across multiple critical criteria: taste, quality, innovation, formulation, and overall experience.

In an industry flooded with new products claiming to be the best, the America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards cuts through the noise. The judging process is rigorous, blind, and unbiased. Products compete within specific THC dosage categories to ensure fair comparisons. For Fresh Press, which contains 10mg THC and 10mg CBG, that meant competing in the Moderate category (6-15mg) against some of the most established and well-funded brands in the cannabis beverage space.

Earning recognition at both the regional Midwest level and the national stage validates our approach to cannabis beverage creation. It confirms that our commitment to quality, flavor, and functionality resonates not just with our customers, but with industry experts who taste hundreds of products each year.

Double Recognition: Regional and National Excellence

Fresh Press didn't just win one award—it earned two distinct honors that showcase both regional dominance and national competitiveness. The Silver medal for Midwest America's Best Hemp Beverage demonstrates that we're creating products that resonate deeply with consumers in our home region. As a Minnesota-based company, this regional recognition holds special significance because it comes from the market we know best and serve most passionately.

The Midwest cannabis market has unique characteristics. Consumers here value authenticity, quality, and products that deliver on their promises. They're discerning, practical, and not easily swayed by flashy marketing. Winning silver in this competitive regional category means Fresh Press met and exceeded the expectations of judges who understand what Midwest consumers demand.

Our Bronze medal for National America's Best Hemp Beverage elevates Fresh Press to a different level entirely. Competing against cannabis beverages from established markets like California, Colorado, and Oregon—states with years of mature cannabis industry experience—makes this national recognition even more meaningful. These markets have seen countless cannabis beverage launches, failures, and innovations. Earning bronze nationally confirms that Fresh Press holds its own against the absolute best in the industry, regardless of geography or market maturity.

Fresh Press Wins Americas Best Hemp Beverage Award 2025 on can of THC infused pear cider.

Why We Display Our Awards With Pride

Some brands bury their accolades in press releases or hide them on obscure website pages. At 23rd State, we take the opposite approach. Our award medals are prominently displayed on every can of Fresh Press because we believe transparency and pride go hand in hand.

When you pick up a can of Fresh Press, you immediately see proof that what you're holding has been independently verified as exceptional. These medals serve as a promise—a guarantee that expert judges have tasted, evaluated, and recognized this beverage as among the best in its category. In an unregulated market where anyone can make claims about quality, third-party validation matters more than ever.

Displaying our awards also reflects our company values. We're not a faceless corporation hiding behind marketing speak. We're a team of passionate individuals who genuinely believe we've created something special, and we want everyone to know it. When industry experts agree with our assessment, we celebrate that validation openly and enthusiastically.

The medals on our cans also serve an educational purpose. Many consumers are new to cannabis beverages and feel uncertain about which products to trust. Award medals provide an immediate, recognizable signal of quality. They tell newcomers that Fresh Press has been vetted by experts, reducing anxiety and building confidence in their purchase decision.

The Journey to Award-Winning Quality

Creating an award-winning cannabis beverage doesn't happen by accident. It requires obsessive attention to detail, countless formulation iterations, and an unwavering commitment to excellence at every stage of production.

Our journey began with a fundamental question: What do cannabis beverage consumers actually want? Through extensive research and customer feedback, we discovered that people were tired of overly sweet, artificial-tasting drinks that delivered inconsistent effects. They wanted beverages that tasted genuinely good, provided reliable experiences, and fit naturally into their lifestyle.

Fresh Press emerged from this insight. We started with the flavor profile, spending months perfecting our sparkling pear cider formulation. We refused to mask cannabis taste with excessive sugar or artificial sweeteners. Instead, we used all-natural extracts to create complex, nuanced flavors that would appeal to sophisticated palates. The result is a beverage that tastes refreshingly crisp and authentic, with subtle sweetness that enhances rather than overwhelms.

The functional formulation came next. We chose a 10mg THC and 10mg CBG combination specifically designed for social, uplifting experiences. This ratio didn't emerge from guesswork—it's backed by real-world data and clinical research through our participation in the MoreBetter cohort study. The CBG component provides functional benefits that complement THC's psychoactive effects, creating a balanced experience that feels clear-headed and enjoyable rather than sedating or overwhelming.

We also invested heavily in nanoemulsion technology to ensure rapid onset. Traditional edibles can take an hour or more to take effect, creating frustration and unpredictability. Fresh Press delivers noticeable effects within 5-10 minutes, allowing consumers to gauge their experience and make informed decisions about additional consumption. This fast onset was crucial to our vision of creating a cannabis beverage that could truly substitute for alcohol in social settings.

Every ingredient, every process decision, and every quality control checkpoint was evaluated against one standard: Would this make Fresh Press better? That uncompromising approach to quality is what caught the judges' attention and earned our medals.

What the Judges Noticed

While we can't speak directly for the America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards judges, we can infer what stood out based on the competition criteria and feedback we've received from retailers, consumers, and industry professionals.

First, the taste. Cannabis beverages have historically struggled with flavor. Many products taste medicinal, overly sweet, or simply unpleasant. Fresh Press breaks that mold with a genuinely delicious sparkling pear cider profile that stands on its own merit. Judges likely appreciated that Fresh Press tastes like a premium beverage first and a cannabis product second.

Second, the formulation quality. The 10mg THC and 10mg CBG combination represents thoughtful product development. It's not simply dumping THC into a drink and calling it finished. The inclusion of CBG demonstrates understanding of the entourage effect and a commitment to creating functional experiences beyond just getting high.

Third, the innovation. Our use of nanoemulsion technology for rapid onset represents cutting-edge beverage science. Judges who evaluate dozens of cannabis beverages recognize when a product incorporates genuine innovation versus simply copying what others have done.

Fourth, the overall experience. Cannabis beverages are judged not just on isolated attributes but on the complete consumer experience. Fresh Press delivers across every touchpoint: appealing packaging, clear dosage information, excellent taste, predictable effects, and a form factor that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles.

Finally, the value proposition. Fresh Press offers premium quality at a price point that makes regular consumption accessible. We didn't create an ultra-luxury product accessible only to wealthy consumers. We created an exceptional beverage for everyone who appreciates quality.

How Awards Elevate the Entire Industry

Individual brand awards might seem self-serving, but they actually benefit the entire cannabis beverage industry. When products like Fresh Press earn recognition from respected competitions, it validates the category as a whole and accelerates mainstream acceptance.

Consider the craft beer revolution. Early awards for exceptional craft breweries helped legitimize the entire movement. They signaled to skeptical consumers that these weren't just gimmicky alternatives to established brands—they were genuine innovations worthy of attention and respect. The same dynamic is playing out in cannabis beverages.

Every award won by a quality product helps convince retailers to dedicate more shelf space to cannabis beverages. It encourages media coverage that introduces the category to new consumers. It attracts investment that funds further innovation. It pushes competing brands to elevate their own quality standards. The rising tide truly does lift all boats.

We view our success not as a zero-sum victory over competitors, but as evidence that cannabis beverages have arrived as a legitimate, permanent category. When consumers see award medals on our cans, they don't just trust Fresh Press more—they become more open to exploring cannabis beverages generally. That benefits everyone working to build this industry.

The Midwest Advantage

Our Silver medal for Midwest America's Best Hemp Beverage deserves special attention because it highlights the unique strengths of Midwest cannabis companies. The coastal states have dominated cannabis industry headlines for years, but the Midwest is emerging as a powerhouse of quality and innovation.

Midwest companies benefit from several advantages. First, we're closer to our agricultural roots. Hemp farming is deeply familiar to Midwest farmers, and we have access to high-quality, locally-sourced hemp that meets our exacting standards. When we say we strive to source 80% or more of our raw materials in Minnesota, that's not just marketing—it's a commitment to supporting local agriculture and ensuring supply chain quality.

Second, Midwest consumers are famously discerning. We don't have the luxury of selling inferior products to trend-chasing early adopters. Our customers expect real value and genuine quality. That demanding market forces us to maintain higher standards than might be necessary in more forgiving markets.

Third, the Midwest work ethic permeates everything we do. We're not trying to create viral moments or chase quick exits. We're building a sustainable business that will serve our community for decades. That long-term orientation shows up in every decision we make, from ingredient sourcing to customer service.

Winning silver in the Midwest category proves that our regional approach works. We're not trying to be everything to everyone nationwide. We're focused on serving our region exceptionally well, and that focus creates products worthy of national recognition.

From Awards to Innovation: What's Next

Earning awards is thrilling, but it's not our end goal. These medals represent validation of our current products, but they also raise the bar for everything we create going forward. We can't rest on our laurels when customers and judges expect continued excellence.

The success of Fresh Press has energized our entire team to push even harder on innovation. We're exploring new flavor profiles, experimenting with different cannabinoid ratios, and investigating emerging technologies that could further improve the cannabis beverage experience. Every product we launch will be measured against the standard Fresh Press has set.

We're also expanding our retail partnerships to make award-winning Fresh Press accessible to more consumers. Our recent partnership with Island Peži, Minnesota's premier native cannabis dispensary, represents just the beginning. We're actively working with dispensaries, retailers, and distribution partners across the Midwest to ensure that everyone who wants to experience Fresh Press can easily find it.

The awards have also opened doors for collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the industry. We're connecting with other award-winning brands, sharing insights, and collectively working to elevate cannabis beverage quality standards. Competition drives us to excel, but collaboration advances the entire category.

The Science Behind Award-Winning Beverages

Creating an award-winning cannabis beverage requires more than culinary skill—it demands serious scientific expertise. The 23rd State team includes food scientists, cannabis researchers, and beverage development specialists who understand the complex chemistry involved in creating exceptional infused drinks.

Nanoemulsion technology represents one of our key scientific advantages. Traditional cannabis edibles rely on oil-based THC, which doesn't mix well with water-based beverages and takes significant time to be absorbed by the body. Our nanoemulsion process breaks THC into microscopic particles that disperse evenly throughout the beverage and absorb rapidly when consumed.

This technology solves several critical problems. First, it ensures consistent dosing—every sip contains the same THC concentration, eliminating the risk of uneven distribution. Second, it dramatically accelerates onset time from 60+ minutes down to 5-10 minutes. Third, it improves bioavailability, meaning more of the consumed THC actually reaches the bloodstream and produces effects.

The CBG component of Fresh Press also reflects scientific sophistication. CBG (cannabigerol) is often called the "mother cannabinoid" because it's the precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. While research is still emerging, evidence suggests CBG may provide anti-inflammatory benefits, mood enhancement, and a clearer-headed experience than THC alone.

By combining 10mg THC with 10mg CBG, we're leveraging the entourage effect—the principle that cannabinoids work better together than in isolation. This balanced ratio creates an experience that's uplifting and social rather than sedating or anxiety-inducing. The judges clearly recognized the thoughtfulness behind this formulation choice.

Customer Validation Matters Most

Industry awards are gratifying, but customer feedback is what truly drives us. Since launching Fresh Press, we've received thousands of testimonials from consumers who've made it part of their regular routine. They tell us about celebrating with friends, unwinding after work, enhancing outdoor adventures, and replacing alcohol with a healthier alternative.

These real-world experiences matter more than any medal because they represent the ultimate validation: people are choosing Fresh Press not once out of curiosity, but repeatedly because it genuinely improves their lives. The awards simply confirm what our customers already knew—Fresh Press is exceptional.

We've seen customers transition from skepticism to evangelism. Many tried Fresh Press because they were curious about cannabis beverages but uncertain about quality. After experiencing the superior taste, reliable effects, and overall enjoyment, they became passionate advocates who introduce Fresh Press to their friends and family.

This word-of-mouth growth has been incredible to witness. While we're proud of our marketing efforts, the most powerful promotion comes from satisfied customers sharing their experiences. The awards give those customers additional confidence when making recommendations. They can now say with authority: "Try Fresh Press—it's not just my favorite, it's literally award-winning."

Commitment to Quality Never Wavers

Winning awards creates a new challenge: maintaining the exact quality that earned recognition in the first place. Some brands become complacent after achieving success, gradually allowing standards to slip. At 23rd State, we've taken the opposite approach—the awards have intensified our commitment to quality.

Every batch of Fresh Press undergoes rigorous third-party testing. We verify THC and CBG potency, screen for contaminants, and ensure microbiological safety. These lab certificates are available via QR codes on our packaging because we believe transparency builds trust.

We've also maintained our commitment to premium ingredients despite pressure to cut costs. Fresh Press uses all-natural extracts, contains no artificial sweeteners, and sources hemp from farms we personally vet. These choices cost more than cheaper alternatives, but they're non-negotiable because they're essential to the Fresh Press experience.

Our quality control extends beyond ingredients to every aspect of production. We monitor fill volumes, carbonation levels, seal integrity, and packaging quality. We taste-test random samples from every production run. We investigate and resolve any customer complaint about product quality, no matter how minor.

This obsessive attention to detail ensures that the Fresh Press customers buy today is identical to the award-winning formulation judges evaluated. Consistency is the foundation of brand trust, and we refuse to compromise it for short-term gains.

Join the Celebration

The 2025 America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards medals on Fresh Press cans aren't just our achievement—they're a celebration of everyone who believed in our vision. Our investors who funded early development. Our team members who worked late perfecting formulations. Our retail partners who gave us shelf space before we had proven traction. Our customers who took a chance on a new brand.

These medals belong to everyone who contributed to making Fresh Press what it is today. When you pick up a can displaying our Silver Midwest and Bronze National medals, you're holding the culmination of countless people's dedication, expertise, and passion.

We invite you to experience award-winning excellence for yourself. Visit our website to find Fresh Press at a retailer near you, or order online for convenient delivery. Try our other products like SHAKE infused edible glitter, Blush Crush sparkling beverage, and Citra Stash hoppy refresher—each crafted with the same uncompromising standards that earned Fresh Press industry recognition.

Follow us on social media to stay updated on new products, retail partnerships, and upcoming accolades. Join our community of people who refuse to settle for mediocre cannabis experiences and demand products worthy of celebration.

The Future Is Bright (and Award-Winning)

The 2025 America's Best Hemp Beverage Awards represent a milestone in our journey, not a destination. We're more motivated than ever to push boundaries, explore innovations, and create products that earn even greater recognition.

As the cannabis beverage industry matures, quality will increasingly separate winners from also-rans. Consumers are becoming more sophisticated, more demanding, and less tolerant of inferior products. Brands that prioritize excellence will thrive. Those that chase trends or cut corners will fade.

23rd State is firmly in the first category. Our awards prove it. Our customer satisfaction scores confirm it. Our growing retail presence reflects it. Most importantly, our daily commitment to crafting exceptional cannabis beverages guarantees it.

The medals on our cans aren't relics of past success—they're promises of continued excellence. Every time we fill a can with Fresh Press, we're committing to uphold the standards that earned those awards. Every time a customer reaches for our product, they can trust they're getting the best.

That's why we put our medals right on the can. Because when you create something truly exceptional, you share that pride with everyone. You make it impossible to miss. You turn every purchase into a celebration of quality, craftsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Experience award-winning cannabis beverages. Experience Fresh Press. Experience 23rd State.

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