Cannabis packaging under scrutiny for new designs that may “appeal” to minors

10 Aug 2021 --- The Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency has warned cannabis-infused edibles producers against using packaging designs that may entice children to try their products.

The agency has released a statement saying cannabis edibles “shall not be in a shape or labeled in a manner that would appeal to minors aged 17 years or younger.” This includes graphics like cartoons, toys, and shapes or labels that could be confused with commercially sold candy. 

Edibles must also be packaged in child-resistant containers. 

Many products flavored with chocolate or fruit must be clearly marked “THC,” the abbreviation for the primary psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis.

Speaking to PackagingInsights, Steve Annunziato, COO of environmental cannabis packaging company Dymapak says industry has to get behind stricter legislation protecting children if it hopes for wider legislation. 

“We would absolutely agree that we should move to secure cannabis products from children. Not trying to entice children to access the products is a good thing. If people are looking and hoping for cannabis legislation to become federally legal, rules and regulations like this are the only way to make that happen.” 

Packaging can pose risks
The statements by Michigan’s agency come following a spate of incidents in which children inadvertently consumed cannabis products that were packaged to look like sweets. PakLock is designed to protect children from cannabis beverages.

Last week, 15 children in Virginia, US, were sent to hospital after ingesting THC products. Five of them had to be admitted to critical care units. 

Michigan’s ban on child-friendly designs is enforced in various ways in some of the other 37 states in which cannabis is decriminalized. 

However, with products such as Whiz Edibles Strawberry Gummies, Neon Sour Bears, Mini Brownies and Doobie Doo Cookies, criticism of industry’s design standards remains prevalent. 

PakTech saves the children 
Industry has, however, been making strides to improve standards in cannabis packaging specifically for child protection. 

US-based PakTech, a producer of recycled packaging handles and automated application equipment, recently released a child-resistant cap for THC beverages. 

Branded PakLock, the cap is made from 100 percent recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) and is suitable for public recycling streams after use. 

Developed by PakTech’s engineering team, PakLock has been third-party certified to meet the child-resistant criteria set forth by 16 CFR Part 1700.20 – a legal testing procedure required for adult products such as cannabis-infused beverages. The company says it targeted beverage products first, as they are the easiest to open and consume. 

By Louis Gore-Langton