Why Carrier Oil Choice Matters for White Label CBD
CBD is a fat-soluble compound, meaning it must be dissolved in a lipid (fat) carrier to be absorbed by the body. The carrier oil you choose affects not just bioavailability, but also taste, appearance, shelf life, and the story you can tell about your product.
MCT C8 Oil (Caprylic Acid)
MCT (Medium-Chain Triglyceride) oil derived from coconut is the most popular carrier for premium CBD products. C8 (caprylic acid) is the most bioavailable MCT — it converts to ketones rapidly in the liver, providing fast energy and enhancing CBD absorption.
Advantages: Odourless and tasteless, fastest absorption, keto-friendly, excellent shelf stability, enhances CBD bioavailability by up to 3x compared to long-chain triglycerides.
Best for: Sports nutrition, focus and energy formulas, keto lifestyle brands, premium positioning.
Hemp Seed Oil
Cold-pressed hemp seed oil has an ideal 3:1 omega-6 to omega-3 ratio and is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It adds authentic hemp identity to your product and has a distinctive nutty, green flavour.
Advantages: Perfect omega fatty acid ratio, rich in GLA, authentic hemp identity, anti-inflammatory fatty acids, vitamin E antioxidant.
Best for: Full spectrum "whole hemp" products, wellness brands, skin health positioning.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in oleocanthal (a natural COX inhibitor with anti-inflammatory properties) and oleic acid. It has strong consumer recognition and a Mediterranean health positioning.
Advantages: Oleocanthal anti-inflammatory, high oleic acid, strong antioxidant profile, consumer-trusted ingredient.
Best for: Premium wellness, Mediterranean lifestyle brands, older consumer demographics.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and has a luxurious, rich texture. It has the highest oleic acid content of all common carrier oils and a distinctive buttery flavour.
Advantages: Highest oleic acid content, luxurious texture, rich in vitamins E and K, excellent for sublingual absorption.
Best for: Luxury positioning, premium price points, consumers who prioritise ingredient quality.
Carrier Oil Comparison Table
| Carrier Oil | Bioavailability | Taste | Shelf Life | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCT C8 | ★★★★★ | Neutral | 24+ months | Medium |
| Hemp Seed | ★★★★ | Nutty/Green | 12–18 months | Low |
| Olive Oil | ★★★★ | Grassy/Fruity | 18–24 months | Low-Medium |
| Avocado Oil | ★★★★ | Buttery/Rich | 12–18 months | Medium-High |
LABHEMP offers all four carrier oils for white label CBD products. Use our formula builder to choose your carrier oil and cannabinoid combination.