The cannabis industry in Oregon is growing, but businesses must follow strict packaging and labeling rules to stay compliant. The Oregon cannabis packaging guidelines focus on consumer safety, accidental consumption prevention, and clear product information.
Businesses must also navigate the Oregon cannabis packaging pre-approval process. This step ensures that all packaging designs meet state regulations before products reach the market. From tamper-evident seals to required warning labels, compliance is essential for avoiding fines and maintaining consumer trust.
In this article, we break down key packaging requirements, approval steps, and best practices to help cannabis businesses meet Oregon’s strict standards.
Regulatory Authorities and Governing Laws
The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) regulates cannabis packaging and labeling to ensure compliance. Businesses must follow the Oregon cannabis labeling requirements, which focus on clear product information, safety, and preventing marketing appeal to minors.
All cannabis packaging and labeling must meet the standards outlined in Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 845-025-7000 to 845-025-7190. These rules cover everything from font size and placement of warning labels to child-resistant packaging requirements.
In the following sections, we’ll break down the most important packaging and labeling guidelines to help you stay on track.
Oregon Packaging Requirements
When it comes to cannabis packaging in Oregon, strict guidelines are in place to ensure consumer safety, particularly for children. The following sections outline key requirements and restrictions:
Child-Resistant and Exit Packaging
All cannabis products must be enclosed in child-resistant packaging for marijuana products in Oregon. This packaging is essential to prevent accidental ingestion, particularly by children.
To meet the state’s strict standards, cannabis packaging must:
Be certified by third-party testing firms to ensure it meets safety criteria.
Be resealable if the product is intended for multiple uses, allowing consumers to store it safely.
Be specifically designed to prevent accidental consumption, especially by children.
Furthermore, if the original packaging does not meet these child-resistant standards, retailers must provide exit packaging that complies with the regulations before selling the product. This ensures products remain secure and safe for consumers after purchase.
Prohibited Packaging and Imagery
Regulations strictly prohibit branding that appeals to children. Prohibited imagery on Oregon marijuana packaging includes:
Cartoons, characters, or images commonly associated with children’s products.
Celebrities or public figures that may attract a younger audience.
Packaging designs that resemble non-cannabis food or beverages, such as snacks or soft drinks, to avoid confusing cannabis products with items children might consume.
By adhering to these guidelines, cannabis businesses in Oregon help ensure their products are responsibly marketed.
Labeling Requirements
Oregon cannabis labeling requirements ensure that consumers have all the necessary information to make informed choices. The following sections cover the essential label information required for all cannabis products:
Essential Label Information
Oregon cannabis labeling regulations require that all products include key information to ensure safety and transparency. Labels must clearly display:
Product identity and net weight, so consumers know exactly what they’re purchasing.
A full list of ingredients and any potential allergens to inform those with sensitivities.
Required warning statements highlighting health risks and confirming the product is for adult use only.
The Oregon cannabis universal symbol (see below), a standardized logo that marks products containing THC, making it easier for consumers to identify such items.
These requirements help create a safer cannabis market by ensuring all necessary information is easily accessible to consumers.
Oregon Cannabis Warning Sign
Oregon mandates the use of a standardized warning symbol on all cannabis packaging. This symbol serves as a quick and clear visual indicator that the product contains THC and should be used with caution.
Key Features and Requirements:
Size – The symbol must be at least 0.48 inches wide and 0.35 inches high.
Color – The symbol must be in a contrasting color to ensure visibility against the packaging background.
Placement – The symbol must be placed on the principal display panel of the package.
THC and CBD Content Labeling Laws
Cannabis packaging must accurately reflect the cannabinoid content per Oregon law. THC and CBD content labeling laws in Oregon require that labels display:
Total THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) content to be listed both per package and per serving.
A variance of no more than 10% from the tested potency levels to ensure accuracy.
Information about batch identification and testing to confirm that the product has been tested for cannabinoid content.
These labeling rules help consumers make informed choices and ensure cannabis products meet state regulations.
The Oregon Cannabis Packaging Pre-Approval Process
Before a cannabis product can be sold in the Beaver State, businesses must go through the Oregon cannabis packaging pre-approval process. This process includes:
Submitting packaging and labels to the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) for official review.
Verifying compliance with child-resistant laws and required labeling standards, including ingredients list, health warnings, and THC/CBD content.
Receiving OLCC approval or making necessary revisions if packaging does not meet state requirements.
This step is crucial for avoiding penalties, ensuring customer safety, and maintaining a transparent cannabis marketplace. By securing pre-approval, businesses can confidently bring compliant products to the market.
Staying Up to Date with Regulatory Changes
Oregon’s cannabis packaging and labeling laws can change as regulations evolve. To stay compliant, businesses should:
Regularly review OLCC updates to stay informed about new requirements and rule changes.
Attend industry training sessions to gain insight on best practices and compliance strategies.
Consult compliance experts to ensure packaging and labeling meet the latest state guidelines.
By staying proactive, cannabis businesses can avoid compliance issues, reduce the risk of penalties, and continue operating smoothly within Oregon’s regulated market.
Final Word
Compliance with Oregon cannabis packaging regulations is essential for legal cannabis businesses. It ensures that companies can avoid penalties and protect customers.
Not sure where to begin? Need packaging that meets the pre-approval process? Custom 420 Supply is here to help!
Our team stays up-to-date on all of Oregon’s laws and regulations, ensuring the packaging we provide meets state compliance. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to reach out through our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What information is mandatory on cannabis product labels in Oregon?
Oregon labels must show product identity, net weight, a full ingredient list, allergen warnings, and health and usage warnings. They must also display THC and CBD content, the Oregon universal symbol, producer information, and a unique identification code.
Are there specific requirements for child-resistant packaging in Oregon?
Yes, all cannabis products must use child-resistant packaging that’s certified by a third-party testing firm. If the product packaging is not compliant, retailers must offer exit packaging that meets these standards.
What is the universal symbol requirement for cannabis packaging in Oregon?
Oregon mandates that all cannabis labels include a standardized universal symbol to show the presence of THC. This symbol must meet specific size (0.48 inches wide by 0.35 inches high), color (to ensure visibility), and placement guidelines on the principal display panel.
In the Evergreen State, the cannabis industry is strictly regulated. One of the most important aspects for producers, processors, and retailers to understand is Washington State cannabis packaging laws.
These laws protect consumers, ensure product safety, and prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. Non-compliance can lead to significant penalties, so industry players must stay updated on these requirements.
Unsure of where to begin? Our article covers everything you need to know about this state’s cannabis packaging laws.
General Packaging Requirements
The Washington State cannabis packaging laws place a strong emphasis on safety, particularly to prevent children from accessing cannabis products. Below are some key packaging standards that cannabis businesses must follow:
Child-Resistant Packaging
A key aspect of child-resistant packaging for marijuana products in Washington is that all cannabis products must be in containers resistant to opening by children under 5 years old.
Packaging must meet the standards set by the federal Poison Prevention Packaging Act. This ensures that the packaging effectively prevents children from accessing harmful products.
Products not in child-resistant packaging are considered non-compliant and cannot be sold. Retailers and manufacturers must verify that their packaging meets these standards before products can be made available to consumers.
Tamper-Evident Features
Packaging must also include tamper-evident features that allow consumers to easily detect if a product has alterations. These features help maintain integrity and safety by ensuring that products remain secure until they reach the consumer.
Tamper-evident packaging provides an added layer of protection, giving consumers confidence that the product has not been opened or modified before purchase. These features are essential for preventing tampering and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Opacity and Resealability
In addition to being child-resistant and tamper-evident, cannabis packaging must also be opaque, meaning that the contents are not visible to the public. This helps prevent accidental consumption and keeps the product out of sight, reducing the temptation for children and others who may not understand its contents.
Furthermore, packaging must be resealable, allowing consumers to store products safely after opening. This feature helps maintain product freshness and ensures that the product remains securely contained, even after multiple uses.
Product Protection
Cannabis packaging must protect the product from contamination or degradation. This includes using materials that do not release harmful substances into the cannabis or its derivatives.
Packaging should be made from materials that preserve the product’s quality and prevent exposure to moisture, air, or light. These elements can all have a negative effect on the potency and safety of a cannabis product.
Specific Product Packaging Standards
Each type of product has its own unique requirements under Washington State cannabis packaging laws:
Usable Cannabis (Flower)
For cannabis flower, packaging must be child-resistant and also comply with the Washington cannabis product warning label standards. This includes providing clear and concise information about the product’s:
Potency
Weight
Origin
These labeling standards ensure that consumers have all the necessary information to make informed purchasing decisions. Proper packaging also ensures that the flower remains safe and secure from contamination.
Cannabis Concentrates
Concentrates (i.e. oils or waxes) also need to be packaged in child-resistant containers. Packaging for concentrates must protect the product from heat, moisture, or other environmental factors that could degrade its quality. Furthermore, to maintain the product’s integrity, packaging must ensure the concentrate is safe and secure until it reaches the consumer.
Edibles
Packaging for cannabis-infused edibles must be child-resistant and clearly labeled with information about tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC and CBD content labeling laws in Washington State require precise measurement of active ingredients in each serving of the product.
This ensures accurate information is provided to consumers, helping them make informed decisions about the potency and effects of the product.
Topicals and Other Products
For cannabis topicals and other non-consumable products, similar packaging standards apply. While these products may not require detailed dosage information, they must still be packaged in child-resistant containers and include appropriate labeling to comply with Washington State cannabis labeling requirements.
Labeling Requirements
Washington State cannabis packaging laws include strict guidelines for labeling cannabis products. These rules ensure consumers have accurate and transparent information about what they are purchasing and consuming.
Mandatory Information
Every cannabis product label in Washington must contain the following specific details:
Producer and Processor Details – The name and contact information of the licensed producer and processor.
Lot Numbers and Production Dates – Unique identifiers to track the product from production to sale.
Net Weight and Potency Levels of THC and CBD – Accurate measurements to inform consumers of cannabinoid content.
Health and Safety Warnings – Clear warnings about the product’s effects and potential risks.
Universal Symbol Requirements for Cannabis Packaging – Each label must display the standardized cannabis symbol, indicating that the product contains cannabis.
Prohibited Labeling Practices
There are strict rules about what can and cannot appear on cannabis product labels. Prohibited imagery on Washington marijuana packaging includes cartoons, characters, or any elements that might appeal to children.
Labels must also avoid making health or medical claims about the product’s efficacy or safety. This prevents misleading consumers and ensures compliance with state regulations.
Compliance Deadlines and Enforcement
Businesses in Washington State must adhere to strict timelines for complying with new packaging and labeling regulations. The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) sets these deadlines, and failure to meet them can result in significant fines or the removal of non-compliant products from store shelves.
The WSLCB actively monitors compliance through inspections and enforcement actions. Businesses should stay updated on regulatory changes and take proactive steps to ensure all packaging and labeling meet current standards. Regular audits and quality control checks can help companies avoid costly penalties and maintain good standing with the industry.
Best Practices for Producers and Retailers
To remain compliant with Washington State cannabis packaging laws, producers and retailers should follow these key practices:
Use child-resistant packaging to ensure all packaging meets state and federal standards to prevent unauthorized access.
Maintain accurate and compliant labeling with clear and accurate labels that meet all the requirements, including potency levels, warnings, and universal symbols.
Stay informed on regulation updates by monitoring them on the official WSLCB website.
Train employees on compliance to recognize compliant packaging and labeling, and implement systems for regular internal audits to ensure continued adherence to state laws.
Final Word
The Washington State cannabis packaging laws are crucial to ensure that cannabis products are safe, accurately labeled, and responsibly sold. By adhering to the state’s regulations on packaging, labeling, and product production, businesses can avoid penalties and contribute to a safe and well-regulated cannabis market.
Are you a business owner in Washington and unsure where to begin? Custom 420 Supply is here to help. Our team ensures we stay up-to-date on all laws in Washington, only providing you with compliant packaging and labels.
Want to get started? We invite you to reach out through our contact page today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What information is mandatory on cannabis product labels in Washington State?
Cannabis product labels in Washington State must include the following mandatory information:
– The name and contact information of the producer and processor – The product’s net weight and potency levels for THC and CBD – Lot numbers and production dates – Health and safety warnings – The universal cannabis symbol
Are there specific font size requirements for cannabis packaging labels in Washington State?
Yes, Washington State requires specific font size and legibility standards for cannabis product labels. The text must be large enough to ensure readability and must be placed in a way that makes all required information clear and visible.
What are the child-resistant packaging standards for cannabis products in Washington State?
Cannabis products in Washington State must be packaged in child-resistant containers that meet the standards set by the federal Poison Prevention Packaging Act. The packaging must be difficult for children under the age of 5 to open while remaining accessible to adults.
If you run a cannabis business in the Centennial State, understanding Colorado marijuana packaging requirements is essential. The state has strict regulations to ensure consumer safety, product transparency, and legal compliance. This guide breaks down the key requirements so your business can stay on the right side of the law.
These packaging regulations serve several important purposes:
Brand and Product Recognition – Clear labeling helps consumers identify trusted brands and differentiate between products.
Consumer Awareness – Packaging must provide essential details, including potency, ingredients, and usage warnings, so buyers can make informed choices.
Legal Compliance and Safety – Strict guidelines prevent underage access, reduce health risks, and align with state laws to keep businesses legally protected.
As one of the most developed cannabis markets in the U.S., Colorado enforces detailed packaging requirements. Whether you’re launching a new product or updating existing packaging, following these rules is critical to maintaining compliance. Below, we outline everything you need to know to keep your business in line with state regulations.
General Packaging Requirements in Colorado
The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) requires comprehensive packaging standards to ensure safety and compliance with state laws. These rules are specifically designed to prevent accidental ingestion, particularly by children, and to maintain the integrity of cannabis products. Such requirements include the following:
Child-Resistant Cannabis Packaging
All cannabis products must be sold in child-resistant packaging that meets the guidelines set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This ensures that the packaging is secure and minimizes the risk of children accessing it. The packaging must be tested and proven effective at preventing children under five years old from opening it.
Opaque and Tamper-Evident Packaging
Cannabis packaging must be non-transparent, meaning it should not allow the product inside to be visible. This helps reduce the risk of appealing to children and helps maintain privacy for consumers.
Furthermore, all packaging must include tamper-evident features, such as seals or breakable closures. This indicates whether it’s been opened or altered, ensuring the consumer receives a safe, untainted product.
Resealable Containers
Multi-use cannabis products (i.e. edibles or concentrates) must be sold in resealable packaging. This feature helps preserve the freshness of the product, preventing contamination or degradation over time. It also minimizes the chances of accidental consumption by allowing consumers to securely close the packaging after each use.
Colorado THC Warning Label Requirements
Proper labeling is crucial for both consumer awareness and legal compliance. Every marijuana product in Colorado must have a clearly visible THC warning label that includes the following essential information:
THC Content Statement – The label must clearly state that the product contains THC, ensuring consumers are fully informed about the presence of the psychoactive compound.
Health Risk Warning – A warning must be included regarding potential health risks, such as the dangers of using cannabis during pregnancy or while operating machinery. This helps consumers make informed choices about when and how to use the product safely.
Age Restriction Notice – The label must indicate that the product is intended for individuals 21 years of age or older, in line with Colorado’s legal age requirement for marijuana use.
FDA Disclaimer – A disclaimer must be included stating that cannabis products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), making it clear that these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
These labeling requirements are in place to protect consumers and ensure transparency. They help individuals make safe, informed decisions while staying within the bounds of the law.
Colorado Marijuana Universal Symbol Guidelines
Since January 1st, 2020, Colorado has mandated that all cannabis product packaging display a universal symbol for THC recognition. This symbol ensures that consumers can easily identify products containing THC, promoting safety and awareness.
The key elements of this requirement include the following:
Red Diamond with “THC” – The symbol of the red diamond with the letters “THC” clearly displayed inside, making it easy for consumers to recognize at a glance that the product is psychoactive.
Size Specifications – The universal symbol must be at least 6mm by 6mm in size to ensure visibility and clarity.
Applies to All Cannabis-Infused Packaging – This symbol requirement applies to all cannabis-infused products, including edibles, concentrates, and topicals. It helps to ensure consistent identification across a wide range of cannabis products.
This symbol helps protect consumers by clearly signaling the presence of THC. It ensures that the product is easily identifiable and that users are fully aware of what they’re purchasing.
Cannabis Product Labeling Compliance in Colorado
To ensure compliance with Colorado’s cannabis product labeling regulations, all cannabis product packages must include the following information:
License Numbers – The license number of both the cultivation facility and the retail outlet where the product was sold must be clearly stated. This confirms that the product has been legally produced and distributed.
Harvest Batch Number and Net Weight – Each product must include the harvest batch number, which allows for traceability, and the net weight of the product to provide consumers with accurate details about the amount they’re purchasing.
Ingredient List – A complete list of ingredients must be included, including any potential allergens. This helps consumers make informed choices, especially those with allergies or dietary restrictions.
THC and CBD Content – The total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content must be listed in milligrams, both per serving and per package. This ensures that consumers know exactly how much of each compound they’re consuming.
Storage Instructions and Expiration Dates – For perishable products, clear storage instructions and an expiration or “use-by” date must be included. This helps maintain product quality and ensures the product is consumed within its safe and effective timeframe.
Colorado Cannabis Packaging Font Size Standards
Colorado regulations also specify minimum font size requirements for cannabis product labels to ensure readability:
Warning statements must be in an 8-point font.
The universal THC symbol must be clearly distinguishable from other elements.
Product names and descriptions should be printed in a way that does not mislead consumers.
Prohibited Terms on Colorado Marijuana Packaging
Colorado enforces strict rules on what can and cannot appear on marijuana product packaging to prevent misleading claims and protect consumers. The following terms and imagery are strictly prohibited:
Appealing to Minors – Packaging cannot include any references or imagery that may appeal to children (i.e. cartoons, toys, or child-friendly designs). This rule ensures that cannabis products are marketed appropriately for adults and do not attract underage consumers.
False or Misleading Health Claims – Packaging must not make unverified or misleading health claims, such as “cures cancer” or “safe for all ages.” These types of statements can mislead consumers and promote unsafe use.
Exaggerated Potency Claims – Terms like “high potency” or “best on the market” are not allowed. These claims suggest the product is superior in potency or quality without supporting evidence, potentially misleading consumers.
These regulations help maintain the integrity of cannabis marketing in Colorado, ensuring that products are advertised honestly and safely.
Recent Updates and Compliance Considerations
Use-By Dates – As of January 2024, all cannabis products must include a “use-by” date and recommended storage conditions.
Edible Serving Sizes – Since July 2019, marijuana edibles must be pre-portioned into servings of no more than 10mg THC, with each serving individually marked or wrapped.
Exit Packaging – All dispensaries must place purchased cannabis products in opaque, child-resistant exit bags before customers leave the store.
Final Word
Colorado’s cannabis packaging laws are strictly enforced to promote consumer safety and regulatory integrity. Dispensaries and manufacturers must stay updated with any changes to avoid legal penalties and ensure responsible marketing.
By following these Colorado marijuana packaging requirements, businesses can maintain compliance, protect consumers, and contribute to the responsible growth of the cannabis industry. Not sure where to begin? That’s where Custom 420 Supply comes in.
Our team ensures that you receive packaging 100% compliant with Colorado’s guidelines. If you want to learn more, we invite you to reach out through our contact page.
Colorado Marijuana Packaging Requirements FAQs
What are the mandatory labeling requirements for cannabis products in Colorado?
Cannabis products in Colorado must include the license numbers of the cultivation and retail facilities, the harvest batch number, ingredient list, THC and CBD content, and storage instructions, along with expiration dates for perishable products.
Are there specific font size requirements for cannabis packaging labels in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado requires that certain labeling information, including the THC content and health warnings, be displayed in a font size that ensures readability, but specific font sizes may vary depending on the label’s size and space.
What are the child-resistant packaging standard for cannabis products in Colorado?
All cannabis products must be sold in child-resistant packaging that meets the standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to prevent children under five from opening that container.
If you live in the Sooner State, your medical cannabis business always needs to stay updated when it comes to laws. Luckily, our guide details Oklahoma cannabis packaging regulations.
These guidelines are put into place so customers can:
Understand essential information found within a product.
Determine whether or not they want the product.
Since Oklahoma is one of the largest medical industries in the state, it’s important to know the rules and regulations. We’ve laid them out to ensure your business meets these guidelines.
Are Your Cannabis Products Packaged According to Regulations?
Cannabis packaging in Oklahoma is only allowed by a registered dispensary. These businesses must ensure the marijuana is in an envelope or container that says “intended for sale.” On top of that, it must meet other label requirements (see below).
Since cannabis is still federally illegal, each state has its own guidelines when it comes to cannabis packaging. Oklahoma is no different but still follows some universal trends. These include:
The minimum amount or net weight of the package
The license, batch, and serial number of the cultivation facility
Still, specific laws pertain specifically to custom cannabis packaging in Oklahoma. Most notably, cannabis is only medically legal in the state. Therefore, dispensaries are only allowed to distribute to qualifying patients or caregivers.
On top of that, an Oklahoma cannabis business must abide by the following:
Universal Symbol
The icon or logo is the first indicator to identify cannabis packaging. To indicate that a consignment holds marijuana, Oklahoma State’s Cannabis Labeling requirements direct all the sellers to paste universal symbols to label the packages or containers.
In Oklahoma, all packages and individually packaged product units, including but not limited to those from bulk packaging, must contain the Oklahoma Uniform Symbol (or universal symbol) in clear and plain sight.
The universal symbol must be printed no smaller than ½ inch x ½ inch (recommended .06″ x .085″) in size and be red with black text.
It’s not acceptable in the Marijuana Legalization Act to use a logo that is recreated, distorted, pixelated, and stretched. To follow full compliance, you are also required not to change the icon color or use it on a dark background.
Package and Label Laws
Oklahoma is known as the Wild West of weed. Low license fees, no license caps, inexpensive labor, and land costs make it easier for everyone to enter the cannabis industry. After the 2018 Farm Bill, most people in Oklahoma possess a patient card that allows them to purchase cannabis products.
The cannabis labeling and packaging guidelines in Oklahoma are as follows:
The packaging shouldn’t be made to look attractive to minors.
The packaging should only depict general information like the company name and product information.
False advertising, like medical claims and curative properties, is prohibited.
Packages must refrain from infringing or violating any federal trademark regulation or law.
The label must contain the following important information:
Chemical profile (Terpenoid, THC, CBD potency)
Government warning statements for labeling, such as:
This product has been tested for contaminants.
Keep out of reach of children.
Women should not use marijuana or medical marijuana products during pregnancy because of the risk of birth defects.
Child Resistant Packaging Guidelines
The design should be difficult for children under five to open.
It should be easy for normal adults to use.
Keep the packaging opaque so the product can’t be seen without opening the package.
Make it re-sealable to make the packages child-resistant and ideal for multiple openings if they contain multiple servings.
Labeling Essentials
Labels, packages, and containers shall not be attractive to minors nor contain any content that reasonably appears to target children, including toys, cartoon characters, and similar images. Packages should be designed to minimize appeal to children and shall not depict images other than the business name logo of the medical marijuana producer and the image of the product.
Packages and labels shall not contain any false or misleading statements.
No medical marijuana or medical marijuana products shall be intentionally or knowingly packaged or labeled to cause reasonable patient confusion as to whether the medical marijuana or medical marijuana product is a trademarked product.
No medical marijuana or medical marijuana products shall be packaged or labeled in a manner that violates any federal trademark law or regulation.
Packages and labels shall not make any claims or statements that the medical marijuana or medical marijuana products provide health or physical benefits to the patient.
Special Recommendations
Display information clearly and legibly.
Use English and at least 6-point font.
Ensure all required labeling is displayed on the outer layer of the packaging.
Small packaging that makes it challenging to fit required information on the outer layer may use an information panel to include some of the required information. Examples include: hang tags, peel-back labels, and inserts.
Final Word
Need an Oklahoma cannabis packaging distributor? While we aren’t located in the state, our team ensures to design packaging that abides by the above-mentioned laws and regulations.
In fact, Custom 420 has been partners with the Cowboy Cup (an Oklahoma cannabis competition) for the last four years. This involvement has given us insight into the state’s industry and specific regulations.
Want to learn more? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
While medical marijuana in California has been legal for some time, the recreational industry is still up and coming. Therefore, your business needs to be aware of California cannabis packaging regulations.
These laws are in place for a few specific reasons. They help potential buyers:
Your inability to follow these laws can also result in various legal consequences. Therefore, we invite you to follow along as we discuss California’s cannabis compliance packaging.
Why Do You Need to Follow Cannabis Packaging Laws?
Cannabis packaging laws are essential for buyers to determine if a product is right for them. More specifically, labels often require specific information to provide buyers with knowledge of what’s in a product (i.e. THC count).
In California, only a dispensary can package and sell marijuana. This product must also be in an envelope or a container that says “intended for sale.” It must also include all the required information (see below).
Since cannabis is still federally illegal, packaging laws vary from state to state. Still, you need to follow some universal regulations. Below, we’ve laid out both types of laws here to ensure your California cannabis flower packaging is up to code!
California’s Cannabis Packaging and Label Guidelines
Laws for cannabis packaging in California are split into the following three articles. These are found in Subchapter 5 by the Office of Manufactured Cannabis Safety (OMCS):
Article 1. General Provisions
40400. Applicability.
The requirements in this section shall apply to finished cannabis products and shall not apply to cannabis or cannabis products that are transferred between licensees for the purpose of further processing or packaging.
40401. Release to Distributor as Finished Product.
Before the release of a product to a distributor, a licensee shall ensure that the product is in finished form and labeled/packaged in its final form for sale at a dispensary.
Article 2. Labeling Requirements §40403. General Provisions.
(a) Any information required to be listed on a label shall be written in English.
(b) A label shall be unobstructed and conspicuous.
(c) All required label information shall be unobstructed and conspicuous.
40405. Primary Panel Labeling Requirements.
(a) The label for a cannabis product shall include a primary panel with the following information:
(1) The identity of the product in a text size reasonably related to the most prominent printed matter on the panel;
(2) The words “cannabis-infused” immediately above the identity of the product in bold type and a text size larger than the text size used for the identity of the product;
(3) The cannabis product symbol as prescribed in Section 40412;
(4) The net weight or volume of the contents of the package;
(5) The THC content and CBD content for the package in its entirety, expressed in milligrams per package;
(6) The THC content and CBD content per serving, expressed in milligrams per serving; and
(7) The content of other cannabinoids or terpenes per serving if such information is verified by the certificate of analysis issued by a licensed testing laboratory under Business and Professions Code section 19344.
(b) The primary panel text must be in type size no less than 6-point font and be about the size of the primary panel and container.
40408. Informational Panel Labeling Requirements.
(a) The label for a medical cannabis product shall include an informational panel with the following:
(1) The licensed manufacturer and its contact number or website address;
(2) The date of manufacture;
(3) Each of the following statements:
(A) “SCHEDULE I CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE.” (B) “KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND ANIMALS” in bold print. (C) “FOR MEDICAL USE ONLY.” (D) “IF PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING, CONSULT A PHYSICIAN PRIOR TO USE.” (E) “THE INTOXICATING EFFECTS OF THIS PRODUCT MAY BE DELAYED BY UP TO TWO HOURS.” (F) “THIS PRODUCT MAY IMPAIR THE ABILITY TO DRIVE OR OPERATE MACHINERY, PLEASE USE EXTREME CAUTION.”
(4) A list of all product ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight or volume;
(5) If an edible product contains an ingredient, flavoring, coloring, or an incidental additive that bears or contains a major food allergen, the word “contains,” followed by a list of the applicable major food allergens;
(6) If an edible product, the names of any artificial food colorings contained in the product;
(7) If an edible product, the amount, in grams, of sodium, sugar, carbohydrates, and total fat per serving;
(8) The lot number;
(9) Instructions for use, such as the method of consumption or application, and any preparation necessary before use;
(10) The product expiration date, “use by” date, or “best by” date; and also
(11) The unique identifier.
(b) The informational panel text shall be in a type size of no less than 6-point font and about the size of the primary panel and container unless there is an insufficient area on the container available to print all the required information in a type size of no less than 6-point font. In such a case, the label shall include the warning statements required by paragraph (3) in a type size of no less than 6-point font, and the product shall be accompanied by supplemental labeling that includes all of the information required by this section. The text of the supplemental labeling shall be no less than 8-point font.
40410. Labeling Restrictions.
The label shall not contain any of the following:
(a) Claims that the manufactured cannabis or cannabis product was grown in a California county when the cannabis was not grown there.
(b) The name of a California county unless the cannabis was grown there.
(c) Content that is or designed to be attractive to individuals under the age of 21, including but not limited to:
(1) Cartoons; (2) Any likeness to images, characters, or phrases that are popularly used to advertise to children; or (3) Any imitation of candy packaging or labeling.
(d) False labeling information. Labeling is false if it is false or misleading in any particular.
(e) Claims of health benefits or other physical benefits.
40412. Cannabis Product Symbol.
The primary panel of a medical cannabis product shall be marked, stamped, or otherwise imprinted with the cannabis product symbol directly on the package.
(a) The symbol shall replicate the following in form and color:
(b) The symbol shall be no smaller in size than half (.5) inch by half (.5) inch and shall be printed legibly and conspicuously.
Article 3. Packaging §40415. Packaging.
As per law, a package used to contain a cannabis product shall adhere to the following requirements:
(a) The package shall protect the product from contamination and shall not expose the product to any toxic or harmful substance.
(b) The package shall be tamper-evident, which means that the product shall be packaged in a container within which a product is sealed so that the contents cannot be opened without obvious destruction of the seal.
(c) The package shall be child-resistant, which means the package shall be designed or constructed to be significantly difficult for children under five years of age to open or otherwise obtain access to the product contained therein within a reasonable time, and shall not be difficult for normal adults to open or obtain access to the product contained therein. A package shall be deemed child-resistant if it satisfies the standard for “special packaging” as outlined in the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970 Regulations (16 C.F.R. §1700.1(b) (4)).
(d) The package shall not imitate any package used for products typically marketed to children.
(e) If an edible product, the package shall be opaque.
(f) If the package contains more than one serving of cannabis product, the package shall be re-sealable so that child resistance is maintained throughout the life of the package.
Final Word
Need help navigating California’s cannabis packaging laws? We’re here to help! At Custom 420, we ensure all our custom packaging is designed to match state laws and regulations.
Not sure where to begin? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to package and sell cannabis edibles in California?
The details of California’s cannabis edibles packaging laws are detailed above. However, this state has some of the most stringent laws for packaging edibles.
What information must be in cannabis packaging in California?
The main things you need on a cannabis package are the product, its weight, and the universal symbol for CA-licensed cannabis products. However, as our guide entails, there is more to California’s cannabis packaging laws.
