For nine years we’ve been reporting on this somewhat crazy, somewhat out-of-control, but always interesting new industry. In that time, we’ve seen countless new ideas and products. Some made sense and became big hits, but an equally large number were uber-hyped flops (does anybody remember Mass Roots?).
Although I have to admit I was initially somewhat skeptical of edibles when they first hit the regulated market, I was wrong about their enduring popularity. Edibles have become a mainstay of the industry and can probably be found every dispensary or cannabis retailer nationwide. From run-of-the-mill gummies, which have become ubiquitous, to some really exotic offerings like infused Asian teas, East Indian sweets and imaginative desserts, edibles now come in a huge variety of flavors and forms.
Next month, Marijuana Venture is going all-in with a special section on edibles. Our April issue will feature a wide range of stories on the hottest brands, exciting trends, top equipment for manufacturing edibles and more.
One of the common criticisms concerning THC-infused edibles is that they often mimic candies consumed by children. It’s a concern that shouldn’t be ignored, as there have already been numerous cases of children consuming cannabis products that looked like harmless sweets and ending up in the hospital. A few years ago, I was convinced that candy-like infused edibles would be banned once there were a rash of kids getting sick, but so far it hasn’t happened. However, to combat the danger edibles can pose to kids, most states have imposed strict rules and guidelines outlawing packaging that appeals to children. And while this classification can be subjective, it makes good sense to me (and I still believe that state bans on look-alike candy products could be on the horizon).
Potency is another concern about edibles. As it currently stands, there are myriad rules and regs on potency, with each state having its own set of guidelines. As with alcohol, potency is a legitimate concern, but one that states handle in different ways. As a person who rarely uses cannabis, I personally feel that drinks in small containers with 100 milligrams of THC are asking for trouble. If I consumed 100 milligrams of THC, I’d probably be in a semi-coma state for hours, if not days. However, to consumers who have built up a tolerance over many years or medical patients who need a high dose to alleviate pain, 100 milligrams is little more than the standard dose and a pleasurable high.
I suppose in the end, it’s going to be all about easy-to-read guidelines and warning labels that make dosing and potency very clear. After all, what this industry doesn’t need is bad publicity from users that have a bad first experience.
All things considered, the explosion of edible products infused with THC is an exciting and fast-growing segment of an already exciting and fast-growing industry. The future looks bright, and the ever-expanding offerings keep getting better — better tasting and more interesting. I hope you enjoy the April issue and our expanded coverage of edibles.
Greg James
Publisher