Feds warn cannabis sellers to stop using packaging that looks like food popular with children

The Federal Trade Commission and the Food and Drug Administration are calling out five edible cannabis sellers who are using packaging that mimics foods popular with children.

The companies were ordered to immediately stop marketing edible Delta-8 THC products that imitate foods with advertising or packaging likely to appeal to young children.

The action is part of the FTC’s ongoing monitoring of health-related advertising claims.

The FTC shared some examples (pictured above) to show how easy it is for a child to mistake cannabis edibles for a kid-friendly snack and accidentally ingest THC in very high doses.

Edible cannabis — like cereal, gummies, cookies, candies, and chips — have cannabis that’s derived from marijuana or hemp. Some of these foods have Delta-8 THC, which is a part of cannabis that causes psychoactive and intoxicating effects.

After accidentally eating edibles with THC, many children have gotten sick and even been hospitalized.

The FDA cautions adults to keep Delta-8 THC products out of reach of children and pets. If you, or someone in your household, uses edible cannabis products:

• Store cannabis edibles separately from other foods and in their original packaging.

• Use child-proof cabinets and drawers to keep these products away from kids, just as you would household cleaning and laundry items.

• Completely reseal the packaging after each use, and immediately store it in a secure location.

• Talk to family and friends about the danger edibles pose to kids.

To learn more, read 5 Things to Know about Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol – Delta-8 THC | FDA