Kratom products are popping up everywhere — from gas stations to vape shops — but comedian and filmmaker Davey Jackson thinks this booming industry needs a closer look.
In his latest documentary, Jackson takes a deep dive into how concentrated kratom extracts and synthetic versions have turned a once little-known plant into a billion-dollar market.
“Basically, there are three main types. First, there’s the natural kratom powder that many people have relied on successfully for years. Then, there’s the newer extract,” Jackson shares with BlazeTV host Sara Gonzales.
“They’re extracting and concentrating kratom into beverages. That’s a whole different conversation. Finally, there are synthetic products like 7-OH or MGM-15 or MGM-16, which the DEA is currently looking to ban,” he elaborates.
Gonzales highlights that “there’s substantial profit in this industry,” referring specifically to the company Feel Free.
“That’s a fascinating case. They initially started by giving their products away on college campuses — just handing them out. And let’s not forget, this is something that can be quite addictive,” Jackson remarks.
“While these Feel Free shots aren’t as severe as the 7-OH tablets facing a ban right now, they’re definitely addictive. They pack a punch, significantly more potent than typical kratom,” he explains, revealing that the founder of Feel Free has a background as “an ex-con” who spent time in federal prison for fraud.
“Feel Free is now the top kratom product in the U.S. — they’re pulling in about $250 million annually. They’ve even been looked at by the DOJ, and they play a big role in the kratom story we’re investigating,” Jackson adds.
“It really seems to come down to money, right? Those who are profiting want to keep things going,” Gonzales remarks.
“Sure,” Jackson nods. “Companies like Feel Free have a vested interest in sustaining the market and have lobbied against regulation of the kratom industry. Interestingly, they were also influential in pushing for the 7-OH ban since it was starting to erode their market share.”
“They’re already making $250 million a year, of course they want more. Then there’s Big Pharma — many people are using 7-OH, available in gas stations or smoke shops,” he continues.
“And I must say,” he adds, “that from a regulatory standpoint, I don’t feel safe about what’s actually in these products. There have been instances where 7-OH has been tested and found to contain [fentanyl]. That’s incredibly dangerous, right?”
