New York startup developing ‘healthier’ cannabis

An upstart New York plant biotech company is developing cannabis that is better for you, as well as low-nicotine cigarettes.

The Buffalo-based 22nd Century Group last week partnered with Canada’s Anandia Laboratories to develop and grow “healthier” cannabis strains.

The chief executive of 22nd Century, Henry Sicignano, says the exclusivity in, and control of, the “next-generation cannabis strains” could ultimately be worth hundred of millions of dollars to the company.

The initial focus will be on cannabinoid-free cannabis for the legal medical marijuana markets, which has the potential for billions of dollars in sales per year.

New York state legalized medical marijuana in 2014.