Staying Compliant with Maryland’s Child-Resistant Packaging Requirements

In November 2022, Maryland voters decisively approved the legalization of recreational cannabis, marking a significant turning point in the state's stance on cannabis use. By July 1, 2023, the law officially took effect, allowing adults aged 21 and older to legally possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis and cultivate up to two plants for personal use. However, with this legalization came a set of strict regulations focused on ensuring safe, compliant packaging and labeling for all cannabis products sold within the state.

 

For cannabis businesses, particularly those involved in packaging, staying compliant with Maryland’s child-resistant packaging requirements is essential. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

Labeling Requirements: What Must Be Included

 

In addition to strict packaging regulations, Maryland mandates specific labeling details for all cannabis products. These labels must include:

 

Warning Statements:

  • Consumption Age: “The contents may only be lawfully consumed by a consumer 21 years old or older, or a registered medical cannabis patient.”
  • Impairment Warning: “Consumption of cannabis may impair your ability to drive a car or operate machinery. Please use extreme caution.”
  • Health Risks: “There may be health risks associated with cannabis use, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding.”
  • Child Safety: “This package contains cannabis. Keep out of reach of children and animals.”

Product Information:

  • Lot number, licensee name, address, and phone number.
  • Net weight of the cannabis product.
  • List of cannabinoid and terpene ingredients.
  • Allergen information, if applicable.
  • Non-cannabis ingredients and solvents used in production.
  • Nutrition facts (for edibles).
  • Active and inactive ingredients in descending order of weight (for edibles).
  • Dates related to the product’s harvest, packaging, or expiration.

QR Code and Certificate of Analysis

 

Maryland also mandates that cannabis packaging includes a link or QR code to a certificate of analysis, conducted by an independent testing lab. This certificate verifies the safety and quality of the product in compliance with COMAR 14.17.08 regulations, further reassuring consumers about product integrity.

 

Universal Symbol and Font Specifications

 

A universal cannabis symbol must appear on every product, and all labeling text must adhere to strict guidelines:

  • Printed or affixed to the marketing layer.
  • Font size no smaller than size 6 (1/12 inch).
  • Clearly written and printed in English.

These specifications ensure that consumers can easily read and understand crucial information about the products they purchase.

 

Staying Compliant in a Competitive Market

 

Maryland’s cannabis regulations are stringent, but they are designed with consumer safety in mind. For cannabis packaging businesses, these regulations provide an opportunity to stand out by ensuring compliance while maintaining innovative, appealing designs.

 

By following these packaging and labeling requirements, businesses can not only stay on the right side of the law but also foster trust with consumers in Maryland’s rapidly growing cannabis market.

 

Stay informed and compliant with child-resistant packaging—because in Maryland, safety is non-negotiable!

If your dispensary or manufacturing facility needs custom-printed packaging for your products, feel free to contact our team at Martini Packaging. We're here to help.