In 2009, Sweet Grass, Denver, began its journey, producing freshly baked, cannabis-infused edibles. In 2013, the company decided to move closer toward vertical integration and started handling its own in-house cannabis cultivation, making it a "crop-to-cookie" business.

One of the biggest opportunities is with cannabidiol (CBD), an ingredient you've no doubt seen in food industry news quite a bit this year. But just what is it, how can it be used, why is it so popular and what are the implications for the restaurant industry?

The Rocky Mountain High: CheeseBurger Delight features two 100% charbroiled beef patties paired with Carl’s Jr. signature Santa Fe Sauce infused with hemp-based CBD oil, pickled jalapeños, pepper jack cheese and Crisscut® fries to give the burger the extra crunch – all between a premium bun.

Chefs who participated in the survey said infusing foods with the ingredients could create unique cuisine opportunities and potential new markets for experiential dining occasions.