WASHINGTON, D.C. (WWLP) – Two federal agencies are warning several sellers of edible cannabis products for their packaging.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Federal Drug Administration (FDA) sent cease-and-desist letters to five companies marketing edibles containing Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in packaging similar to many foods children eat such as cereals and cookies.
Massachusetts fines Texas-based animal shelter for unlicensed operation and bringing sick dogs into the state After accidentally eating edibles with THC, many kids have gotten sick and even been hospitalized.
The agencies sent letters to the following companies:
The agencies have expressed the dangers to children who ingest products containing cannabis, and they are at a higher risk of eating products that appear similar to traditional foods because children are less likely to focus on or be able to understand the text on the product labels.
“Companies that market and sell edible THC products that are easily mistaken for snacks and candy are not only acting illegally, but they are also putting the health of young children at risk,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Those that prioritize profits in front of children’s safety are at serious risk of legal action.”
“Inadequate or confusing labeling can result in children or unsuspecting adults consuming products with strong resemblance to popular snacks and candies that contain delta-8 THC without realizing it,” said FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Namandjé Bumpus, Ph.D. “As accidental ingestion and/or overconsumption of Delta-8 THC containing products could pose considerable health risks, the companies who sell these illegal products are demonstrating complete neglect for consumer safety. The FDA will continue to work to safeguard the health and safety of U.S. consumers by monitoring the marketplace and taking action when companies sell products that present a threat to public health.”
This issue is not new. In July 2023, the agencies sent joint warning letters to six companies that were marketing edible products containing Delta-8 THC in packaging almost identical to many snacks and candy children eat, including Doritos, Cheetos, and Nerds.
The FDA offers these tips to keep cannabis products out of the hands of children and away from pets:
- Store cannabis edibles separately from other foods and in their original packaging.
- Use child-proof cabinets and drawers to keep these products away from kids, just as you would household cleaning and laundry items.
- Completely reseal the packaging after each use, and immediately store it in a secure location.
- Talk to family and friends about the danger edibles pose to kids.
More information on Delta-8 THC can be found on the FDA website.
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