Navigating the Cannabis Market: Identifying Unregulated Products 

As the popularity of legal cannabis grows, it’s crucial to distinguish between regulated and unregulated products to ensure a safe and responsible cannabis experience. While legal cannabis is subject to stringent regulations, unregulated products pose potential risks due to mislabeling and lack of quality control. This article guides consumers on how to spot unregulated cannabis products, empowering them to make informed choices and prioritise their well-being.

Identifying Unregulated Cannabis Products:

Edible Packaging Resembles Non-Infused Candy: Unregulated edible cannabis products are often sold in packaging resembling popular candy brands. This poses a risk, especially for children who may mistake cannabis-infused edibles for non-infused candy, leading to accidental consumption. Regulated edibles are mandated to be sold in plain, child-resistant packaging, displaying health warnings and a standardised cannabis symbol.

Lack of THC and CBD Details: Legal cannabis products must clearly display THC and CBD amounts on their labels to mitigate the risk of overconsumption. Unregulated products often lack or provide inaccurate information about THC and CBD content, leading consumers to unintended overconsumption.

Exceeds Legal Limits: Legal limits for cannabis products include 30 g of dried cannabis or its equivalent per product. Edibles must not exceed 10 mg of THC per package, while extracts and topicals have a maximum of 1,000 mg of THC per package. If a product exceeds these limits, it is from the illegal market.

Missing Key Stamps and Symbols: Every legal cannabis product, regardless of format, must have an excise stamp, proving its legal production and integrity. Legal products with THC concentrations greater than 10 mcg per gram must display the standardised cannabis symbol. Missing these stamps and symbols are clear indicators of unregulated products.

No List of Ingredients: Regulated cannabis extracts, topicals, and edibles must include an ingredients list, providing transparency to consumers. Rigorous quality-control testing ensures regulated products are free from potential allergens, contaminants, pesticides, fungus, or mould. If a product lacks an ingredients list, it may be from the illegal market.

Understanding how to identify unregulated cannabis products is essential for protecting yourself and others from potential health risks and legal consequences. By being vigilant about packaging, information, and legal limits, consumers can confidently navigate the cannabis market, making choices that prioritise safety and responsible consumption. Download the comprehensive guide to keep handy and ensure your cannabis experience is both enjoyable and legal.