BEN’S BEST BLNZ does the unexpected: It puts social justice center stage
Turns out ice cream is no longer just associated with a serious case of the munchies these days when it comes to weed. Ben Cohen, the legendary co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, is taking the cannabis industry by storm with the launch of BEN’S BEST BLNZ (B3), a non-profit cannabis company with a groundbreaking mission: Donating 100% of its profits to Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis space and groups advocating for criminal justice reform.
With a lineup of blended pre-rolls, full-spectrum live resin vapes, and potent flower, B3 is set to make an impact.
Justice takes center stage as B3 directs 80% of its profits towards Black cannabis entrepreneurs, while also establishing a low-interest loan fund for Black, Indigenous, and people of color in the cannabis industry. Partnering with the Oregon-based NuLeaf Project, a Black-led non-profit organization, B3 aims to empower and uplift marginalized communities. The remaining 20% of profits will be split between the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance and the Last Prisoner Project.
B3 is all about quality and style, emphasizing terps and premium craftsmanship. To achieve this, they joined forces with designer Eddie Opara of Pentagram, who collaborated with Cohen to create a striking brand identity for BEN’S BEST BLNZ. Featuring bold typography inspired by protest graphics, the packaging showcases the work of Black artists and designers, reflecting the company’s activist spirit.
Cohen’s entrepreneurial journey started with a simple observation: “Today’s pot is just way too strong.” By tapping into the market for milder cannabis products, Cohen aims to use B3 to help right the wrongs of the War on Drugs. As he puts it, “Some of us are motivated by justice.”
From its inception in 1978, Ben & Jerry’s has been synonymous with activism, featuring ice cream flavors inspired by Jerry Garcia, Colin Kaepernick, and Phish. Now, Cohen focuses on addressing the racial disparities in cannabis-related arrests through BEN’S BEST BLNZ, using art and typography to raise awareness.
B3’s products are crafted from blended strains, offering a rich terpene profile and moderate THC levels. Sourced from independent craft growers in Vermont, like GMG Farms in Champlain Valley, B3 prioritizes quality over sheer potency.
B3’s Board of Trustees boasts an impressive roster, including Killer Mike, Phil Agnew, and Nina Turner, working alongside Cohen and Operations Manager Irene Kim. Advocating for decarceration and marijuana descheduling, B3 also seeks to collaborate with Black-owned vendors and partners as much as possible.
With a blend of art, quality, and activism, BEN’S BEST BLNZ is set to disrupt the cannabis market while championing social justice. Offering blended SloSmokes in various packs and effects, you can find them at participating retailers – and be part of the movement to right the wrongs of the War on Drugs.
