According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Dr. Smoke’s THC-infused Doritos chips pose a potential risk of misleading children due to their packaging design. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has joined forces with the FTC to address this issue and has sent cease and desist letters to six companies that produce edible cannabis products packaged in a manner that could attract children.
July 5 (UPI) — In their efforts to safeguard children, the FTC and FDA have taken action against manufacturers of delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products. Delta-8 THC is a hemp-based substance similar to the more potent delta-9 THC found in marijuana. These edible products, reminiscent of popular snacks and candies like Doritos, Cheetos, and Nerds, are being sold in packaging that closely resembles those of children’s treats.
The FTC and FDA have voiced concerns regarding the potential confusion created by the packaging of these delta-8 THC products, as they can easily be mistaken for regular food items. It is essential to note that THC delta 9 is the primary psychoactive component found in cannabis, whereas THC delta 8 is commonly derived from hemp, which is widely utilized in the production of popular CBD products.
The companies that received cease and desist letters are Delta Munchies LLC from Los Angeles, Exclusive Hemp Farms based in Gilroy, Calif., North Carolina Hemp Exchange LLC located in Raleigh, N.C., Dr. Smoke LLC in Kansas City, Mo., Nikte’s Wholesale LLC operating out of Albuquerque, N.M., and The Haunted Vapor Room in Franklin, N.J.
“Marketing edible THC products that can easily be mistaken by children for regular foods is not only reckless but also illegal,” stated Samuel Levine, the director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. Levine emphasized the need for companies to prioritize the safe and responsible marketing of their products, especially when it comes to protecting the well-being of children.
Janet Woodcock, the principal deputy commissioner of the FDA, highlighted the vulnerability of children compared to adults when exposed to THC. She referenced cases where children have fallen ill or required hospitalization after consuming THC-infused edibles, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the issue of potentially misleading packaging.
“That’s why we’re issuing warnings to several companies selling copycat food products containing delta-8 THC, which can be easily mistaken for popular foods that are appealing to children and can make it easy for a young child to ingest in very high doses without realizing it,” Woodcock explained.
