Grower Stories #87: Jon Schaffer

Tia Moskalenko

Tia Moskalenko, author of the AskGrowers blog, brings a unique blend of content to her readers. She is known for conducting insightful interviews with key figures in the cannabis industry, including brand representatives, manufacturers, and experts. In addition to her interview skills, Tia has a keen focus on CBD. She expertly curates product selections and reviews, offering her readers detailed insights into the various effects and benefits of CBD. Tia's ability to combine in-depth interviews with comprehensive CBD analysis makes her a valuable asset to the cannabis community, offering a well-rounded perspective on the industry.

Published

May 14 2021

Updated

Nov 15 2023

Interviews

702

4 min

An Interview With Jon Schaffer, Vice President of Cannabis-Infused Treats Brand Emerald Sky Edibles

There are few things more relaxing than enjoying a tasty treat. It only makes sense to take it up a notch by adding some THC and CBD into the mix, right? That’s what Emerald Sky Edibles did and they’ve been a hit ever since. That’s why we here at AskGrowers chat with Jon Schaffer, Vice President of cannabis-infused treats brand Emerald Sky Edibles #growerstories

Tia (AskGrowers) : Tell us how Emerald Sky started?

Josh (owner) : We researched the edibles category and found that the product selection was so limited. So we decided to launch a different type of edibles company that offered many products that no one else produces.

Tia : How does your brand differ from others similar to yours?

Jon Schaffer (VP) : Emerald Sky Edibles is unique because we put the candy first. Having over 25 years of candy-making experience gives me a unique perspective. All of our products are completely natural with no artificial colors or flavors, and we are the only edible company to individually wrap all of our products.

Tia : What are your top-selling products?

Jon : Currently our top-selling products are our Peanut Butter Cups. The Peanut Butter Cups come in a variety of doses and pack sizes, perfect for whatever you're in the mood for. We take pride in making America's favorite candy, but with a twist. Our gummies are also a fan favorite, coming in four different tasty flavors. We also expect our new Creme Filled Sandwich Cookies to be a huge seller for Emerald Sky.

Tia : Tell a bit more about your infused licorice.

Jon : We were the first company to produce cannabis-infused licorice, and it was the first product we released. We currently offer three flavors of THC-infused licorice (Alpine Strawberry, Watermelon Sour, Grape Noir) and one flavor of CBD/THC-infused licorice (Ruby Fruits [1:1]). It is vegan and will not melt in the hot summer sun.

Tia : Tell us more about the company’s commitment to sustainability. What measures do you take? What’s your process?

Jon : We have recently begun to change our packaging to be more sustainable. Our new products are being released in fully recyclable materials.

Tia : As a representative of the cannabis industry, how do you think consumers can be sure they are choosing toxin-free, pure products?

Jon : They should select all-natural products and skip buying edibles that contain artificial flavors and colors, which several brands out there use.

Tia : Are there any brands you appreciate and follow? Now is your time to give them a shout-out!

Jon : Rather than following the cannabis industry in the U.S., we are more focused on the larger U.S. confection industry. We follow brands like Trolli, Ferrara, Ferrero Rocher, and many other national brands.

Tia : What is your personal cannabis consumption routine? Do you consume cannabis yourself? If so, what products, THC/ CBD? Does it affect your work/life?

Jon : I use CBD regularly and for me personally, THC is more like an occasional treat.

Tia : Do you have a favorite strain to smoke? Why?

Jon : Northern Light.

Tia : If you could have a chance to smoke with anyone on this planet, who would that be and why?

Jon : [tooltip title="Joseph James "Joe" Rogan" content="US stand-up comedian, podcast host and legal cannabis supporter."]Joe Rogan[/tooltip] and [tooltip title="Elon Reeve Musk" content="Billionaire entrepreneur, known as co-founder, investor and CEO of Tesla, SpaceX and Neuralink."]Elon Musk[/tooltip].

Tia : What do you think would be the ideal outcome for the cannabis industry over the next few years?

Jon : I hope to see recreational cannabis decriminalized in the United States very soon and along with that all prior cannabis-related offenses overturned. No one should be in jail for cannabis in 2021.