Neptune Technologies & Bioressources Inc. (NASDAQ: NEPT) (TSX: NEPT) has filed two applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for patents related to the extraction of cannabis material.

The extraction processes provide highly-efficient methods to obtain cannabinoids and other desired compounds from the cannabis plant at a greater purity than conventional methods. Both processes are applicable to marijuana and hemp and will be incorporated into the company’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)-certified extraction facility in Sherbrooke, QC upon approval of the applicable licensing to produce cannabis extract (pursuant to the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations).  As a late-stage applicant, Neptune is currently working with Health Canada authorities to complete the licensing process.

The first patent application outlines a method of extracting and isolating compounds from plants of the Cannabis genus at low temperature by using a cold organic solvent. The second patent application similarly provides for a method for extracting compounds from cannabis at low temperature, but without the use of organic solvents.  Specifically, this patent relates to a process for high recovery of cannabinoids and terpenes by using natural solvents.

“After extensive laboratory trial work by our researchers, we are excited to have developed a range of unique and highly-efficient processes for the production of cannabis extracts of superior quality.  These patents also reflect the leverage of our many years of experience developing value-added differentiated products based upon science,” said Jim Hamilton, President and CEO.

About Neptune Technologies & Bioressources Inc.

Neptune is a health and wellness products company, with more than 50 years of combined experience in extraction, purification and formulation of value-added differentiated science-based products. Currently, the Company develops turnkey nutrition product solutions available in various unique delivery forms, offers specialty ingredients such as MaxSimil^®, a patented ingredient that enhances the absorption of lipid-based nutraceuticals, and a variety of other marine and seed oils. Leveraging its scientific, technological and innovative expertise, Neptune is preparing to commence production of products in legal cannabis markets.