Labeling is intended to inform and protect consumers. Federal agencies such as the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), the Center for Tobacco Products (CTP), and the Alcohol Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) determine the required information for food, tobacco products, and alcoholic beverages, respectively.
Food, tobacco, and alcohol are all legal at the federal level. But despite progressive legislation involving medical and recreational marijuana in most states, weed is not legal at the federal level. Since federal agencies don’t provide labeling rules, the responsibility falls to each state.
In New York, medical marijuana is labeled similarly to other prescription drugs. Recreational marijuana requires more details involving THC and other cannabinoid levels. The state of New York also enforces packaging regulations to ensure customer safety and transparency.
Knowing the Critical Information on a Cannabis Product Label
Whether you purchase cannabis products online or at a dispensary, the consumer must know what information to look for on the product label, such as:
- Name of the product and weight
- Access or direct information involving the Certificate of Analysis (COA)
- Cultivator and brand name
- Detailed information regarding cannabinoids, including:
- THC% and CBD content
- Other prevalent cannabinoid content, such as CBG and CBN
- Total Active Cannabinoid (TAC) percentage
- Other ingredients, such as terpenes and their effects
How to Read Labels by Product Type
As a cannabis and especially a THC consumer, you must be educated regarding the different forms of products and the methods used to consume these products. One universal thing to note on labeling for THC products involves what type of strain is used. You will find it is considered a Sativa strain that is most often associated with energy and focus, an Indica strain that people use for relaxation and sleep, or a Hybrid strain for a balanced effect.
Regarding the forms of marijuana and THC products, look for the following information:
Flowers and Pre-Rolls
Various strains of flower and packaged pre-rolls are typically meant to be smoked, though flower can also be used to make cannabutter to make baked goods or edibles. Make note of the strain and the potency of THC and other cannabinoids when purchasing cannabis in this form.
Edibles
Edibles can include gummies, candies, baked goods, and beverages. Typically, the package will display the total amount of THC and CBD in the package and break it down by serving. With edibles, the packaging also indicates the amount of time it takes the THC to reach your system and how long it will stay in your system.
Concentrates and Vapes
Concentrates take different forms, such as resins, rosin, wax, and distillate. Users ingest them through vaping or using implements such as a dabbing ring. As the name suggests, the THC concentrate is very high (usually over 70%) and should be used according to the package warnings and instructions. It’s especially crucial to pay attention to the type of strain. Because concentrates are highly potent, labels include warnings to start with very small amounts.
Tinctures
Often, tinctures are taken sublingually under the tongue or added to beverages. Especially when taken sublingually, they get into the bloodstream quickly, so pay attention to the THC concentration. You can also use them topically, but only if they are specifically formulated for topical use.
Topicals
Along with THC and CBD for pain relief, topicals also contain other therapeutic ingredients. They should only be applied externally, and you should always follow label instructions.
Shopping With Confidence for Cannabis in Staten Island
At Clouditude Dispensary in Staten Island, our team of professionals is ready to help you with all your cannabis needs. Whether you visit our physical location at 4034 Hylan Boulevard or shop online, we’re here to answer questions and find the best products for you. We carry only the highest quality cannabis products.
Please feel free to contact us today with any questions. We would love to hear from you!