Georgia’s cannabis industry is entering a new regulatory phase with the introduction ofSenate Bill 494and the implementation of updated packaging laws effective October 1, 2024. For manufacturers, distributors, and retailers dealing with hemp-derived THC products, understanding Georgia’s cannabis packaging rules is essential to ensure legal compliance and avoid penalties.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Georgia’s cannabis packaging laws, including product requirements, labeling, and THC limits.
Regulatory Framework and Oversight
Georgia’s consumable hemp program is managed by two main agencies.
A key law to know is SB 494, which outlines the legal rules for hemp-derived cannabinoids, including delta-8 and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
What’s Allowed:
Edibles (e.g., gummies and baked goods)
Tinctures
Beverages
Topicals
What’s Prohibited:
Raw hemp flower or leaf
Alcohol-infused cannabis products
Cannabis-infused food (unless it meets full compliance and testing rules)
Any brand producing prohibited products is subject to penalties (see more below).
Packaging Submission and Approval Process
Before selling products in Georgia, all packaging and labeling must be submitted for review and approval. This includes both the main product packaging and any exit bags used at checkout.
The requirements for this review include the following:
Resealable (required for products with multiple servings)
Free of contaminants and made to prevent adulteration
To move forward, manufacturers need a valid license and must send packaging designs to the Department for approval before the product goes to market.
Product Packaging Standards
All product packaging must follow specific rules to protect consumers and meet Georgia guidelines.
General requirements include the following:
It must be designed so that it does not attract children
Tinctures must include a calibrated dropper for accurate dosing
Packaging cannot look like candy, snacks, or popular soda brands
Products must not imitate medical cannabis packaging or use protected trademarks
These rules support child-resistant cannabis packaging in Georgia standards and help keep products safe and compliant.
Prohibited Packaging Features
To meet Georgia cannabis packaging rules, products must avoid the following:
According to Georgia law, the THC content and servings for each product type must follow strict limits:
Gummies– 10mg delta-9 THC per serving; maximum 150mg per package
Beverages– 5mg per 12 oz; must be in single-serving containers only
Topicals– Up to 1000mg THC per packaging
Tinctures– 1mg per serving, containers cannot exceed 10 fl oz
Products with multiple servings need resealable, child-resistant packaging and clear serving instructions. This follows the Georgia cannabis product resealable packaging rules.
Labeling Requirements
Every product label must clearly show these important details:
Mandatory Elements
Product name and category (e.g., gummy or tincture)
Net contents (weight or volume)
Serving size and number of servings
Production date and batch/lot number
The universal THC symbol, at least 1” in diameter, with high contrast
Clear warning statements:
“Keep out of reach of children”
“May cause impairment”
“Effects may be delayed up to 2 hours”
FDA disclaimer, if it applies
Lab Testing/Certificate of Analysis (CoA)
Include a QR code or website link to the Certificate of Analysis (CoA)
Lab results must list:
THC, CBD, CBDa, CBG, CBN, HHC content
Screening for heavy metals, pesticides, mold, and solvents
The CoA must be less than 12 months old and come from an ISO-accredited lab
Advertising and Marketing Limits
Georgia’s packaging rules also control how cannabis products can be advertised and marketed. Advertisements must never target minors or use imagery that appeals to children. This includes avoiding any marketing that mimics popular commercial food or beverage products.
The law also prohibits making false claims about curing or treating diseases. Marketers cannot suggest therapeutic or medical benefits unless explicitly allowed. Additionally, references to medical cannabis or its therapeutic use are not permitted in advertising for hemp-derived products.
These restrictions help ensure cannabis marketing stays responsible and complies with Georgia’s regulations.
Compliance, Testing, and Enforcement
All consumable hemp products in Georgia must undergo annual testing and come with a valid Certificate of Analysis (COA). Retailers are required to keep complete documentation for every product they sell, ensuring transparency and traceability.
Failure to comply with these rules carries serious consequences. Authorities can seize non-compliant products, impose civil fines, and revoke licenses. In cases of severe violations, offenders may face misdemeanor charges. These measures enforce safety and legal standards across the market.
Final Word
Georgia’s cannabis packaging regulations are detailed and continue to change. Whether you make gummies or sell tinctures, following the state’s rules on packaging, labeling, and potency is essential to stay compliant. Always submit your packaging for approval, use clear and accurate labeling, and ensure every product includes up-to-date lab testing.
Are you a cannabis or hemp business in Georgia trying to source state-compliant packaging? Custom 420 Supply has you covered! We invite you to reach out through ourcontact pageto learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Georgia require QR codes on cannabis or hemp product packaging?
Yes. Georgia law mandates that cannabis and hemp product packaging include a QR code or website link to a valid Certificate of Analysis (CoA).
Are there font or language requirements for labeling hemp-derived products in Georgia?
Yes. Labels must use clear, easy-to-read fonts and simple language. They should include mandatory information such as the product name, net contents, serving size, production date, and required warnings. The label must also display the universal THC symbol.
Can cannabis or hemp packaging in Georgia include medical or therapeutic claims?
No. Packaging and marketing materials cannot make false or unapproved medical or therapeutic claims. References to medical cannabis or therapeutic use are prohibited unless specifically authorized. This ensures compliance with state regulations and protects consumers from misleading information.
Hawaii cannabis packaging laws are as unique and strict as the islands themselves. Governed underHRS § 329Dand 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.
TheHawaii 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 towardeco-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 likeHB 1246andSB 962may 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 ourcontact pageto learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hawaii require medical cannabis packaging to be tamper-evident or resealable?
Yes. Medical cannabis packaging in Hawaii must be child-resistant and tamper-evident. If the product is not for single use, the container must also be resealable to maintain safety between uses.
Are dispensaries in Hawaii allowed to include strain names or terpene profiles on product labels?
Yes. Strain names and terpene profiles can be included on product labels, as long as the information is accurate and does not include medical claims or misleading language.
Can cannabis packaging in Hawaii feature Hawaiian imagery, logos, or branding?
No. Hawaii bans images, logos, or graphics (including Hawaiian-themed imagery) on medical cannabis packaging. This supports Hawaii cannabis packaging color restrictions and keeps labels plain, with black text on a white background to reduce appeal to minors.
As Florida’s cannabis and hemp markets continue to grow, businesses must adhere to strict packaging rules to ensure consumer safety and legal compliance. Whether you’re a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) or a hemp-derived product manufacturer, understanding Florida cannabis packaging guidelines is essential to avoid fines and maintain consumer trust.
In this article, we break down the current packaging requirements, labeling expectations, and recent legislative changes affecting cannabis and hemp products in the Sunshine State.
Regulatory Framework
Florida divides oversight of cannabis packaging between medical marijuana and hemp extract products:
Medical cannabis rules are handled by the Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU) under Florida Statute 381.986 and emergency rule 64ER20-32. These set packaging standards, such as child-resistant containers, opaque wraps, clear labels, and retaining original packaging for transport.
Additives banned – A total of 66 additives can no longer be used. This list includes 37 prohibited color additives (like FD&C dyes and cochineal) and 29 flavor or spice-based colorants (like beet powder, turmeric, spirulina) when used as colorants.
Packaging Requirements
All cannabis and hemp products sold in Florida must follow strict safety standards:
Packaging must be child-resistant, meeting the requirements of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) and applicable ASTM International safety standards.
It must also be tamper-evident, meaning it clearly shows if it has been opened before purchase.
For products with multiple servings, a resealable child-proof closure is required to maintain safety after the first use.
These rules help prevent accidental ingestion and protect consumers from potentially compromised products.
Florida also requires plain packaging for medical cannabis, with similar expectations applied to ingestible or inhalable hemp products:
Packages must be either one solid color or white.
Bright, metallic, neon colors or cartoon-styled graphics are not allowed.
All packaging must be opaque and designed to avoid drawing the attention of children.
The presentation rules aim to keep the packaging professional. Furthermore, neutral white minimizes youth appeal.
Labeling Requirements
Florida cannabis labeling regulations differ between medical marijuana and hemp products:
Cannabis Products (Dispensaries/MMTCs)
MMTC name and license number
Patient and physician name
Dispensation date and batch number
Product name, type, and form (i.e., edible, tincture)
Total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content, in both milligrams and percentage
Recommended dosage and usage instructions
Health warnings, including a statement for medical use and safety risks
Universal cannabis symbol covering at least 10% of the front label
Hemp Extract Products
Scannable QR code or barcode that links directly to a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) in three steps or fewer
Batch or lot number for traceability
Expiration date, ensuring freshness and safety
Confirmation of THC content being less than 0.3%, as required by statute
Additional label requirements also include household-friendly serving sizes (i.e., teaspoons, drops) and confirmation that the product does not contain unsafe contaminants or pathogens.
Special Rules for Edibles and Derivative Products
Florida imposes strict standards for edible cannabis to ensure safe use and prevent accidental ingestion.
THC limits – Each serving can contain up to 10mg THC, and multi-serve packages must not exceed 200mg THC total.
Individual wrapping – Each serving must be individually sealed in plain, opaque white wrapping. This applies even in multi-serving formats.
Universal cannabis symbol only – Packaging may only display the universal cannabis symbol, sized according to Florida rule (see below). No other graphics or colors are allowed.
Food safety labeling – Labels must include:
List of ingredients and allergens.
Food safety disclaimers (i.e., not produced under federal standards).
Storage instructions (i.e., “Store in a cool, dry place”) and expiration date.
Florida also bans edibles shaped like animals, cartoons, or other child-appealing forms and forbids bright colors or toppings that imitate candy.
Warnings and Universal Symbol Requirements
Florida requires specific health warnings and a standard cannabis symbol on all cannabis products:
Required warnings on packaging must include:
“This product contains cannabis.”
“Keep out of reach of children.”
“Cannabis use can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment.”
“This product has not been approved by the FDA.”
Universal cannabis symbol rules:
Minimum size of at least ¼ inch (6mm) tall, matching symbol standards.
Placed on a contrasting background for readability.
Symbol must cover at least 10% of the front-facing label.
These rules aim to clearly communicate risks, prevent accidental use by children, and maintain consistent labeling across the market.
Receptacle (Primary) vs. Outer (Secondary) Packaging
Florida law makes a clear distinction between the product receptacle (the container holding the cannabis or hemp product) and the outer packaging (any additional box or wrapper):
Receptacle(Primary)Packaging
Must be child-resistant and tamper-evident to prevent accidental opening.
Can display the MMTC logo and product label with key information.
Outer (Secondary) Packaging
If used, must follow the state’s plain packaging rules (limited colors, no flashy designs).
Must also show the universal cannabis symbol clearly and prominently.
In addition, every product must include a Patient Package Insert (PPI) inside. This insert provides important details, such as:
Proper dosage instructions
Possible contraindications
Known adverse effects
This separation helps ensure safety, clear labeling, and easy access to product information for patients.
Recent Legislative Changes (Updated 2025)
In March 2025, FDACS updated hemp extract regulations to bring them closer to cannabis rules. Key changes include:
Stricter limits on color additives to reduce misleading or flashy packaging.
More detailed QR code labeling that links directly to product certificates of analysis.
Improved child-resistant standards to increase safety for hemp products.
Additionally, House Bill 555, introduced in February 2025, proposes further rules for both cannabis and hemp products:
Mandatory opaque packaging for all smoking products and edibles to reduce visibility and appeal.
Stronger warning labels and wider use of the universal cannabis symbol on packaging.
Sealed, tamper-evident primary containers for all products to protect consumers from contamination or tampering.
These updates reflect Florida’s effort to improve safety, transparency, and consistency across the cannabis and hemp markets.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cannabis Packaging in Florida
Florida is likely to keep strengthening rules to improve consumer safety and prevent child access. We can expect hemp and cannabis packaging laws to become even more aligned over time.
There is also growing interest in eco-friendly packaging within the industry. However, regulations currently make it challenging to fully adopt sustainable materials.
On a national level, efforts to standardize cannabis packaging could bring wider use of ASTM-approved cannabis symbols. This would be similar to how nutrition labels work on food products: clear, consistent, and easy to read.
These changes aim to make cannabis products safer, more transparent, and environmentally responsible.
Final Word
Staying compliant with Florida cannabis packaging guidelines isn’t just a legal necessity; it’s a business imperative. Be proactive. Stay informed. And when in doubt, consult the OMMU or FDACS directly to ensure your packaging passes inspection.
Do you own a cannabis business in Florida and aren’t sure where to begin? Custom 420 Supply is here to help! Our team ensures custom packaging and labeling designs that are 100% compliant with the Sunshine State’s regulations. We invite you to reach out through our contact form to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Florida require medical marijuana packaging to be opaque or a specific color?
Yes, Florida mandates that medical marijuana packaging be plain, opaque, and use a single solid color (or white). Neon, metallic, or cartoon-like designs are prohibited to prevent appeal to children.
Are Florida cannabis products required to include a patient insert or product information?
Yes. Licensed providers must include a Patient Package Insert (PPI) with detailed information on dosage, contraindications, adverse effects, and storage instructions alongside the product.
Can Florida medical marijuana packaging include branding or logos?
Packaging can display one approved Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) logo on the receptacle, but the overall design must remain plain without additional branding, graphics, or colors that appeal to children.
As Arkansas continues to build its medical marijuana program, the state has implemented strict packaging laws to ensure patient safety, product integrity, and regulatory compliance. Understanding Arkansas marijuana packaging laws is essential for licensed dispensaries, caregivers, and patients alike. These laws cover everything from child-resistant design and proper labeling to restrictions on marketing and layout.
Legal Background: Who Regulates Cannabis Packaging in Arkansas?
Medical marijuana packaging guidelines in Arkansas are based onAmendment 98to the state constitution, which legalized medical marijuana and established the state’s regulatory system.
Together, the MMC and ADH ensure that marijuana products follow state guidelines. They focus on public health and product transparency, ensuring packaging is safe, informative, and consistent with Arkansas law.
Packaging Requirements
In Arkansas, all cannabis products must be sold inchild-resistant packaging. This rule follows federal guidelines set by16 C.F.R. § 1700.20, which are designed to keep children under five from easily opening or accessing the contents.
To meet these standards, packaging must follow three basic rules:
Be resealable and tamper-evident
Apply to all product types, including flower, edibles, concentrates, and topicals
Support safe storage and transport by keeping products in secure containers
While state law does not specifically require patients to keep marijuana in the original dispensary packaging, using any child-resistant container is strongly recommended. This helps avoid misunderstandings with law enforcement and supports safe handling at home or in transit.
Labeling Standards
Arkansas medical marijuana labeling requirements vary by product type but are designed to provide clear information and protect consumers.
Cannabis Flower Must Include:
The name and license number of the cultivator or dispensary
A unique identification number (UIN)
Strain name and harvest date
Net weight and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/cannabidiol (CBD) content
Activation time (how long before effects are felt
Details from independent lab testing
The Arkansas universal cannabis symbol
Concentrates and Edibles Must Include:
All labeling elements listed above for flower
Serving size and total THC/CBD content per package
A clear “DO NOT EAT” label, when needed
Extra warnings about pregnancy and health risks
A statement clarifying that the product is not approved by the FDA
All packaging must beopaqueand food-safe, reducing the risk of accidental ingestion or contamination.
Mandatory Warning Statements:
“Keep out of reach of children”
“For medical use only”
“Do not drive or operate machinery while under the influence”
Packaging Design Restrictions
Arkansas has strict packaging design rules to help prevent cannabis products from appealing to children. These restrictions follow general Food and Drug Administration (FDA) labeling principles and focus on safety and clear communication.
Not Allowed on Packaging:
Cartoon characters or illustrations
Bright, candy-like colors
Any references to real or fictional children’s products
Packaging shaped like candy, cookies, beverages, or similar items
Permitted Design Features:
Clean, professional packaging with a simple layout
Color coding to indicate strain types, as long as it follows state guidelines
These design rules are meant to keep cannabis products from being mistaken for snacks or medicine. The goal is to reduce accidental use, especially by children.
Testing Transparency: QR Codes and Lab Results
All cannabis products sold in Arkansas must go through third-party lab testing before reaching dispensary shelves. These tests check for potency, safety, and contaminants.
To meet labeling rules, dispensaries must make lab results available to consumers. The State offers flexibility in how this is done:
Lab data may be printed directly on the packaging, or
A QR code can link to a secure webpage with detailed test results, including cannabinoid levels and contaminant screening.
This system helps consumers stay informed while keeping small packages from becoming cluttered with text. It supports transparency without sacrificing packaging design.
Transport Rules and Patient Responsibilities
Patients and caregivers in Arkansas must follow safe transport practices when carrying medical marijuana. While the law does not require the original dispensary container, it’s highly recommended to:
Use a sealed, child-resistant container
Store cannabis in the trunk or glove compartment, not in plain sight
Always carry a valid Arkansas medical marijuana ID card
Following these steps can help avoid confusion or legal issues, especially if the packaging looks non-compliant.
Looking Ahead: Legal Challenges and Updates
In Arkansas, recent legal cases have challenged how far state agencies can go in regulating cannabis packaging. In 2023, a few rules created after Amendment 98were struck downfor going beyond what the Constitution allows. These rulings didn’t remove the core packaging standards, but they highlight how the law can shift over time.
Patients, caregivers, and businesses should stay informed as regulations change. The best way to keep up is by checking for updates directly from the MMC and ADH. Being aware of legal changes helps ensure ongoing compliance and reduces risk.
Final Word
Navigating Arkansas’s cannabis packaging laws means understanding both the rules and the reasons behind them. These regulations protect consumers, especially children, by ensuring products are clearly labeled, safely packaged, and transparently tested.
If you own a cannabis business in Arkansas and aren’t sure where to begin, Custom 420 Supply is here to help! We provide packaging and labeling that’s fully compliant with Arkansas regulations. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to reach out through ourcontact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arkansas require a universal cannabis symbol on marijuana packaging?
Yes. Arkansas law requires all cannabis product labels to include the universal cannabis symbol, clearly marking the contents as marijuana. This symbol helps distinguish cannabis from non-THC products and reinforces safety protocols.
Can Arkansas dispensaries use QR codes to test the information on product labels for lab testing?
Yes. While lab results must be available to patients, dispensaries can include a QR code on the label that links to detailed lab testing data, including cannabinoid content and contaminant screening. This is particularly helpful for smaller packages with limited space.
Are there specific font sizes or layout rules for marijuana warning labels in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not currently mandate a specific font size, but warning labels must be clearly legible, prominently displayed, and unobscured by other design elements. Bold text is often used to emphasize key warnings such as “Keep out of reach of children” or “Do not drive.”
As the Land of Enchantment’s cannabis industry continues to expand, understanding and complying with New Mexico cannabis packaging laws has never been more critical. Whether you’re a cultivator, manufacturer, or retailer, staying current on packaging and labeling regulations ensures product safety, protects consumers, and helps avoid costly penalties.
Regulatory Framework
New Mexico’s cannabis packaging and labeling guidelines are established under theCannabis Regulation Act(CRA), enacted in 2021. TheCannabis Control Division(CCD), operating within the Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD), is responsible for enforcing these standards.
The detailed requirements are outlined in the New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC), particularly in Chapter 16.8.3.
N.M. § 26-2C-17– Mandates that cannabis product packaging must be child-resistant and resealable. It also empowers the CCD to establish rules consistent with industry standards for labeling and packaging requirements.
N.M. Admin Code § 16.8.3.12– Specifies packaging requirements for cannabis finished products, including limitations on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content per serving and per package.
N.M. Admin Code § 16.8.3.9– Details labeling requirements for cannabis finished products. Labels must include potency information, a warning statement, and a principal display panel with specific information (i.e. product identity and net quantity).
These regulations are designed to ensure consumer safety and prevent unauthorized access to cannabis products by minors. Compliance with these standards is mandatory for all cannabis businesses operating within New Mexico.
Packaging Requirements
New Mexico cannabis packaging compliance ensures safety and the prevention of appeal to minors.
General Standards
Cannabis product packaging must adhere to the following criteria:
Child-Resistant– Packaging must be difficult for children under five to open, complying with standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Resealable– Multi-use products must be in containers that can be securely closed after each use.
Opaque– Edible cannabis products must not be visible through the packaging.
Eco-Conscious Materials– Packaging should be compostable, recyclable, or made from recycled materials whenever possible.
Businesses that don’t adhere to this criteria may face penalties (see more below).
Restrictions to Protect Minors
To reduce the appeal of cannabis products to children, packaging must not include:
Cartoons or Animations– Any imagery that could attract children is prohibited.
Celebrities or Fictional Characters– Using well-known figures or characters is not allowed.
Candy or Snack Mimicry– Packaging must not resemble candy or snack products.
Labeling Requirements
New Mexico cannabis labeling requirements include:
Product Identity– Clearly state the product type, such as “Cannabis-Infused Chocolate Bar.”
Net Weight or Volume– Specify the amount per serving and per package.
Ingredient List– Include all ingredients, highlighting any potential allergens.
Manufacture and Expiration Dates– Provide the dates of production and when the product should be used by.
Manufacturer Details– List the name and license number of the manufacturer.
Pesticide Disclosure– If applicable, disclose any pesticides used.
Warning Statements– Include the following in bold font:
“For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children. Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery while under the influence of cannabis. BE CAUTIOUS. Cannabinoid edibles can take up to two hours or more to take effect.”
New Mexico THC Warning Symbol– Display the universal THC warning symbol, reproduced at a minimum size of ½ inch by ½ inch.
Additional Labeling Standards
Font Size– All label text must be in a font size no smaller than 1/16 of an inch, measured by the height of a lowercase letter “o.”
Intended Use– Labels must identify the intended use and provide directions. If a product has multiple intended uses, each must be clearly stated, and the most restrictive labeling requirements apply.
Prohibited Content– Labels must not contain untruthful or misleading statements, health or benefit claims, advertising, or content appealing to minors.
Specific Product Guidelines
New Mexico enforces detailed regulations for cannabis products to ensure safety and compliance. These guidelines vary based on the product type and intended use.
Edible Cannabis Products
THC Limits for Recreational Use– Maximum of 10mg of total THC per serving and 100mg per package.
THC Limits for Medical Use– Up to 50mg of total THC per serving.
Multi-Serving Products
Divisibility– Solid edibles must be easily separable, allowing an average adult to divide individual servings with minimal effort.
Scoring– Products must be permanently scored to identify individual servings.
Cannabis Symbol– Each serving must have a cannabis symbol provided by the division, measuring at least ½ inch by ½ inch.
Liquid Cannabis Products
Single-Serving Requirements– Liquid cannabis products are generally required to be single-serving.
Multi-Serving Exceptions– If a liquid product contains multiple servings, it must:
Be in a container that is both child-resistant and resealable.
Include a built-in measuring mechanism within a child-resistant cap or closure to ensure accurate dosing
Topical Cannabis Products
Packaging Standards– Topical products must be packaged in containers suitable for their intended use, ensuring they do not impart any toxic or harmful substances to the product.
Contamination Prevention– Packaging must prevent contamination and ensure safe, hygienic application.
Recent Legislative Updates
In 2024, New Mexico enacted significant legislation to enhance cannabis packaging and labeling regulations:
Senate Bill 6 (Signed March 1st, 2024)
Senate Bill 6expanded the enforcement authority of the Cannabis Control Division (CCD). Key provisions include:
Enhanced Enforcement Powers– The CCD can now seize and destroy illegal, adulterated, or misbranded cannabis products, strengthening efforts against unlicensed and illicit market activities.
Packaging Requirement Revisions– The bill introduced stricter packaging guidelines to further protect youth from accessing cannabis products.
House Bill 64 (Effective August 1st, 2024)
House Bill 64amended Section 26-2C-17 of the Cannabis Regulation Act to clarify packaging requirements, emphasizing child safety. Key mandates include:
Opaque Packaging– All cannabis products must be opaque to prevent the contents from being visible.
Prohibition of Youth-Appealing Imagery– Packaging and labeling must not mimic products safe for child consumption or include cartoons, symbols, or images resembling cartoon characters.
Celebrity Likeness Restrictions– Packages cannot feature depictions of celebrities or celebrity likeness commonly used to market to minors.
Pictorial Warnings– All products must include a pictorial warning indicating that the cannabis product should not be consumed by minors.
Compliance and Enforcement
Adhering to New Mexico’s cannabis packaging and labeling laws is crucial for maintaining licensure and ensuring consumer safety. The CCD actively monitors compliance and enforces regulations to uphold industry standards.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The CCD issues a Notice of Contemplated Action (NCA) to initiate formal proceedings against non-compliant businesses. Failure to comply with packaging and labeling requirements can result in:
Product Recalls– Non-compliant products may be removed from the market.
Monetary Fines– Businesses may face substantial fines or violations.
License Suspension or Revocation– Persistent non-compliance can lead to suspension or loss of licensure.
Cease of Operations– Businesses may be required to halt operations until compliance is achieved.
Criminal Charges– In severe cases, formal criminal charges may be filed against business owners.
Best Practices for Compliance
To maintain compliance with New Mexico’s cannabis packaging regulations:
Stay Informed– Regularly review updates from the CCD to stay current with regulatory changes.
Consult Professionals– Engage legal or compliance experts to ensure adherence to all requirements.
Conduct Internal Audits– Implement regular reviews of packaging and labeling processes to identify and rectify potential issues.
As cannabis continues to evolve into a mainstream industry in the Enchantment State, so does the regulatory environment. Following New Mexico cannabis packaging laws is not just about compliance; it’s about building trust with consumers, ensuring public safety, and maintaining the long-term sustainability of your business.
Are you interested in developing custom cannabis packaging in New Mexico, but unsure where to begin? Custom 420 Supply is here to help! Our team develops high-quality packaging and labeling for cannabis products that are 100% compliant with New Mexico’s regulations.
Interested in learning more? We invite you to reach out through ourcontact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cannabis packaging and labeling requirements the same for all product types in New Mexico?
No. While general rules apply to all products, specific guidelines vary. Edibles, topicals, and liquids each have their own packaging and THC content rules.
Can New Mexico cannabis packaging feature any graphics or designs?
Yes, but with limits. Graphics must not appeal to children (i.e. no cartoons, celebrities, or candy-like branding).
What kind of warning labels are required on cannabis packaging in New Mexico?
Packaging must include a standard cannabis warning, the New Mexico THC symbol (at least ½ inch by ½ inch), THC/CBD content, and product details like ingredients and expiration date.