CRC seeks feedback on rules to expand cannabis edibles

Kimberly Redmond//October 17, 2023//

Cannabis edibles

At its Sept. 8 meeting, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission proposed new rules that would allow for an expanded group of ingestible cannabis products – including baked goods, chocolates, butters, jams and drinks – to be sold in the medicinal and recreational markets.

Cannabis edibles

At its Sept. 8 meeting, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission proposed new rules that would allow for an expanded group of ingestible cannabis products – including baked goods, chocolates, butters, jams and drinks – to be sold in the medicinal and recreational markets.

CRC seeks feedback on rules to expand cannabis edibles

Kimberly Redmond//October 17, 2023//

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After introducing a proposed framework that would allow for the rollout of cannabis-infused edible products, the New Jersey (CRC) is seeking public input.

Currently, the only types of digestible cannabis goods available at dispensaries in New Jersey are syrups, pills, tablets, tinctures, lozenges and soft chews. However, the five-member regulatory board is considering regulations that would permit cannabis-infused drinks, candies and pastry-style treats to be sold in the medicinal and recreational markets.

Unveiled at the board’s Sept. 8 meeting, the rules expand what’s allowed to include ingredients the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally regards as safe but prohibits the inclusion of harmful substances, like nicotine or alcohol.

In addition, ingestible products will include only shelf-stable, ready-to-use items that do not require cooking, baking or storage in sterile environments. They must also have clearly displayed nutrition information, warning labels and expiration dates, along with child-resistant packaging that doesn’t have any imagery or names that could pique kids’ interest.

The guidelines state that be limited to 10 milligrams of THC per serving, while drinks will be capped at 5 milligrams, according to the CRC.

Before the regulations can be finalized they are subject to a 60-day period, which runs from Oct. 16 through Dec. 15. After that, the CRC said it will review and respond to comments.

According to the commission, written remarks can be submitted here and should include the commenter’s name and affiliation.

CRC Executive Director Jeff Brown
Brown

In a statement, CRC Executive Director Jeff Brown said, “We believe that cannabis edibles have the potential to provide an alternative and convenient method for adults to access cannabis, and the proposed regulations aim to establish clear guidelines for their responsible production, labeling, and sale.”

Because finalization of the new rules could take up to six months, the commission took steps to let manufacturers start production to meet expected demand by approving regulatory waivers enabling some edibles to be made and sold while the guidelines go through the adoption process.