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 approach to cannabis regulation. 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 legalization comes a stringent set of regulations to ensure safe, compliant packaging and labeling for all cannabis products sold within the state.

Maryland’s Cannabis Packaging Compliance Standards

To protect consumers and prevent accidental exposure, Maryland enforces strict child-resistant packaging requirements. Cannabis businesses must ensure that their packaging meets the following criteria:

 

1. Child-Resistant and Tamper-Evident Packaging

 

All cannabis products must be packaged in child-resistant containers that comply with the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA).

Packaging must have tamper-evident seals to prevent unauthorized access.

Resealable options are required for multi-use cannabis products.

 

2. Opaque and Non-Appealing Packaging

 

Packaging must not be designed in a way that appeals to children, including the use of bright colors, cartoon images, or candy-like designs.

Edible cannabis products must be enclosed in opaque, resealable packaging to prevent visibility of the product inside.

 

3. Clear and Accurate Labeling Requirements

 

Labels must include the following essential information:

 

Brand Name & Product Information: Clearly state the cannabis strain, product type, and THC/CBD content.

Warning Statements: Labels must include standard health warnings, including:

"For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children."

"This product is not approved by the FDA to treat, cure, or prevent any disease."

"Do not operate machinery or drive while under the influence of cannabis."

Testing and Compliance Details: Lab test results confirming potency, safety, and contaminant levels.

Usage Instructions: Information on proper use, storage, and potential effects.

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.

 

Why Child-Resistant Cannabis Packaging Matters

 

Ensuring compliance with Maryland’s packaging regulations is not just about following the law—it’s about consumer safety. Proper packaging helps prevent accidental ingestion, protects product integrity, and builds trust in the legal cannabis industry.

 

Find Compliant Cannabis Packaging Solutions at Martini Packaging

 

If your dispensary or cannabis manufacturing facility requires custom child-resistant packaging that meets Maryland’s strict compliance standards, Martini Packaging has the solutions you need. We provide high-quality, customizable cannabis packaging designed for safety, sustainability, and brand appeal. Contact us today to learn more about our compliant cannabis packaging solutions.

FAQs About Maryland Child-Resistant Cannabis Packaging

1. What qualifies as child-resistant cannabis packaging?

 

Child-resistant packaging must meet the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) standards, ensuring that children under five years old cannot easily open the package.

 

2. Are there specific packaging requirements for edible cannabis products?

 

Yes, edible cannabis products must be enclosed in opaque, resealable packaging that prevents visibility of the product inside and must not appeal to children.

 

3. What should cannabis labels in Maryland include?

 

Labels must include brand name, product information, THC/CBD content, health warnings, lab testing results, usage instructions, and a QR code linking to a certificate of analysis.

 

4. Do cannabis packaging regulations in Maryland apply to medical marijuana?

 

Yes, both recreational and medical cannabis must comply with child-resistant and tamper-evident packaging regulations.

 

5. Can I use biodegradable or recyclable packaging for cannabis products in Maryland?

 

Yes, as long as the packaging meets child-resistant and tamper-evident requirements, sustainable materials can be used.

 

6. What happens if my cannabis packaging does not comply with Maryland’s regulations?

 

Failure to comply can result in fines, product recalls, and loss of business licenses.

 

7. How can I make sure my packaging is compliant?

 

Work with a trusted packaging supplier like Martini Packaging to ensure your packaging meets all state requirements.

 

8. Are there size requirements for cannabis warning labels?

 

Yes, labels must be legible, with font sizes no smaller than 6-point type, and must contain all required warnings.

 

9. How often do Maryland’s cannabis packaging regulations change?

 

Regulations can be updated periodically, so businesses should stay informed and review state guidelines

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 & Compliant

 

Stay ahead of the competition by ensuring your cannabis packaging meets Maryland’s compliance standards. Martini Packaging offers fully customized, child-resistant packaging solutions designed to help you maintain compliance while strengthening your brand presence.

 

For custom cannabis packaging solutions, contact us or call 866.800.9065 to speak with our team today!