Hawaii Cannabis Packaging Laws: What You Need to Know

Hawaii cannabis packaging laws are as unique and strict as the islands themselves. Governed under HRS § 329D and HAR Chapter 11‑850, these regulations currently apply only to the state’s medical cannabis program.

While adult-use cannabis remains prohibited, evolving legislation (especially concerning hemp-derived THC products) is quickly reshaping packaging requirements.

Whether you’re a dispensary, manufacturer, or brand, staying compliant with Hawaii medical marijuana packaging requirements means understanding the Aloha State’s rigorous health, safety, and environmental standards.

Legal Framework

Cannabis packaging in Hawaii follows clear safety and labeling rules. The key regulations include:

• HRS § 329D-11 – Set basic safety requirements for packaging.
• HAR § 11-850-142 and § 11-850 143 – Outlines rules for packaging design, labeling, and how products must function.

The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) enforces these laws. It checks that all cannabis products follow public safety standards.

Packaging Requirements

Child-Resistant and Opaque

All cannabis packaging must be child-resistant, following federal CFR Title 16 Part 1700 guidelines. It must also be fully opaque so the product is not visible. These rules follow child-resistant cannabis packaging in Hawaii standards, which help prevent accidental use, especially by children.

Color and Graphic Restrictions

Hawaii bans colorful or flashy packaging. Medical cannabis products must use black text on a white background, with no images or graphics. These color restrictions aim to reduce appeal to minors and keep the look clean and clinical.

Required Label Information

All dispensary-sold cannabis products must clearly display:

• Product name and type
• Net weight or volume
• Cannabinoid content (THC, CBD, CBN, etc.)
• Ingredients, allergens, and extraction method
• Dispensary license and production center
• Batch number, packaging date, and harvest date
• Directions for use and expiration date
• Barcode linked to Hawaii’s tracking system

Labels must also show DOH-required warnings:

• “For medical use only”
• “Keep out of reach of children”
• “May impair ability to drive or operate machinery”

These warnings are part of Hawaii cannabis product labeling standards, created to inform patients and protect their safety.

Dispensaries must also give patients printed documentation. This includes dosage details, possible side effects, and usage warnings, fulfilling Hawaii medical marijuana patient insert requirements.

THC Limits and Unit Dosing

Hawaii caps THC levels at 1000mg per container for manufactured cannabis products. For edible items  (e.g., capsules or lozenges), each unit must contain no more than 10mg of THC. These edible cannabis packaging rules in Hawaii help ensure safe, consistent dosing for medical patients.

Sustainable Packaging and Materials

Hawaii’s cannabis dispensaries are shifting toward eco-friendly packaging. With limited recycling options on the islands, some (e.g., Hawaiian Ethos) use compostable paper and refillable glass jars. Common choices include:

• Unbleached paperboard for flower
• Non-toxic inks
• Recyclable glass or metal for concentrates

These choices reflect both environmental responsibility and Hawaii MMJ packaging compliance.

Lab Testing and Compliance

All cannabis products in Hawaii must pass third-party lab testing before sale. Required tests cover:

• Potency levels
• Contaminants, including pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, and solvents
• Optional terpene profile
• Barcode tracking for each batch

The product label must show the lab name and provide access to the results, either directly or through a scannable code.

Recent and Pending Changes

Pre-Roll Approval (Effective 2024)

Hawaii now allows pre-rolled flower products under new rules. Approved pre-rolls must:

• Used unbleached, non-flavored paper
• Contains no tobacco
• Avoid filters that change THC potency

Proposed Hemp and Adult-Use Legislation

Bills like HB 1246 and SB 962 may soon add new rules for hemp-derived THC products, including delta-8 and delta-10. If passed, these products would need:

• Child-resistant, resealable packaging
• Clear THC content on the label
• A visible universal THC symbol

Final Word

Hawaii enforces strict rules for cannabis packaging. From child-resistant containers to clear labels and eco-friendly materials, every detail matters. Staying up to date with Hawaii cannabis packaging laws helps your business stay compliant and build trust in a competitive, sustainability-focused market.

Are you a cannabis business in Hawaii and unsure where to begin with your packaging? Custom 420 Supply is here to help! We invite you to reach out through our contact page to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)