MIAMI — Prodigy Processing Solutions, a leading innovator in GMP-compliant cannabis extraction technology, formed a strategic partnership with Refined Processes LLC, a pioneering Native American-owned cannabis oil processing company. The collaboration aims to establish the first pharmaceutical cannabis extraction facility in the United States that is fully GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) compliant.
Located on the Santa Ysabel Reservation in California, Refined is upgrading its operations to be FDA cGMP and EU GMP compliant for biotech and pharmaceutical research, development, manufacturing, production, and chemical separation of cannabis oil extracts.
This strategic move is in direct response to the much-anticipated rescheduling of marijuana to a Schedule III controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which will allow for interstate commerce of cannabis as an FDA-approved prescription drug and international distribution to nations that have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational purposes.
With the support of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), “the likelihood of rescheduling is almost certain,” said Marc Beginin, veteran cannabis law attorney and CEO of Prodigy. “The DOJ initiated the formal rulemaking process on rescheduling on May 21, 2024. My bet is cannabis will be a Schedule III drug by this September.”
To seize this global opportunity, Refined is upgrading its existing processing lab with Prodigy’s advanced GMP-compliant extraction equipment to meet worldwide pharmaceutical standards. It is also in active negotiations with compounding pharmacies in the United States and distribution partners in the EU, Australia, and the Pacific Rim, poised to supply both precursor extracts and finished products under its retail brand, Sugar Bear Cannabis.
“Our partnership with Prodigy enables us to leverage their cutting-edge technology, and deep expertise in cannabis extraction and GMP compliance, to broaden our reach and impact,” said Aaron Thomas, CEO of Refined. “Our commitment to uniting the tribes of America through high-quality cannabis products distributed globally is brought one step closer by this partnership.”
Thomas, a seasoned veteran in the cannabis industry and chemical engineer, boasts a distinguished track record of consulting, constructing, and managing numerous successful cannabis enterprises throughout California. His visionary approach now sets its sights on revolutionizing cannabis oil extraction by Native American tribes.
Unlike other cannabis equipment suppliers, Prodigy’s USA-made extraction equipment, forged with 316L pharmaceutical stainless steel with full material traceability, meets or exceeds global GMP standards.
“By upgrading its lab to meet FDA cGMP and EU GMP compliance, Refined and its sovereign Tribal nation partners are positioning themselves well ahead of all other U.S.-based cannabis extraction and processing operations,” added Beginin. “Refined is strategically positioning itself to engage in business with U.S. and international pharmaceutical and biotech companies upon DEA rescheduling.”
“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our mission to innovate and lead the cannabis extraction industry. Together with Refined, we are setting new benchmarks for quality and compliance,” Beginin continued.
This partnership further cements Prodigy Processing Solutions as the leader in GMP-compliant life science technology for the cannabis extraction sector.
Prodigy invites other tribes, cannabis labs, pharmaceutical, biotech, and life sciences companies to explore similar collaborations, leveraging collective expertise to elevate and service cannabis extraction operations worldwide. With a proven track record of innovation, compliance, and customer success, Prodigy is reshaping the cannabis industry by enhancing processing standards worldwide.
About Prodigy Processing Solutions
Prodigy Processing Solutions is the leading provider of life science equipment tailored for the cannabis and hemp extraction and processing industries. With a focus on cutting-edge engineering, unparalleled customer service, expert operator training, and comprehensive extraction lab solutions, Prodigy equips businesses with the essential tools for success in these dynamic sectors. Committed to delivering the highest quality and most innovative extraction solutions, Prodigy is driving the evolution of the cannabis and hemp industries worldwide. For more information about Prodigy, visit ProdigyUSA.com.
About Refined Processes LLC
Refined Processes LLC is a pioneering Native American-owned cannabis and hemp oil processing company located on the Santa Ysabel Reservation in California. Led by CEO Aaron Thomas, a seasoned veteran in the cannabis industry, Refined is committed to setting new standards in cannabis extraction and distribution. With a focus on quality, pharmaceutical GMP compliance, and constant innovation, Refined is poised to make a significant impact on the industry landscape, both domestically and internationally.
