FTC and FDA Crack Down on Delta-8 THC Edibles in Child-Friendly Packaging

Copycat Delta-8 THC Food ProductsSubmitted Images

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued cease-and-desist letters to several companies marketing Delta-8 THC edibles in packaging that resembles popular children’s snacks. This joint action underscores significant health risks as these products can easily be mistaken for everyday treats by children.

Health Risks and Concerns

Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive substance found in the cannabis plant. When ingested by children, it can cause serious health issues. The FTC and FDA have emphasized the dangers posed by edibles mimicking familiar snacks, such as Froot Loops and Chips Ahoy! cookies. These look-alike products can lead to accidental ingestion, resulting in severe health consequences for unsuspecting children and adults.

“Companies that market and sell edible THC products that are easily mistaken for snacks and candy are not only acting illegally, but they are also putting the health of young children at risk,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Those that prioritize profits in front of children’s safety are at serious risk of legal action.”

Companies Targeted

The letters were sent to several companies, including Hippy Mood from Levittown, Pennsylvania; Life Leaf Medical CBD Center in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina; Shamrockshrooms.com; Mary Janes Bakery Co. LLC and Miami Rave LLC in Florida; and Earthly Hemps in Cape Coral, Florida. These companies were found to be marketing Delta-8 THC products that closely resemble popular children’s foods in both name and packaging.

For instance, Hippy Mood sells Delta-8 THC cereals with names and packaging strikingly similar to children’s cereals like Froot Loops. Life Leaf Medical CBD Center offers a product that resembles Nerds Rope candy. Mary Janes Bakery Co. and Miami Rave LLC market “Trips Ahoy!” cookies, which mimic Chips Ahoy! cookies.

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FTC’s Demands and Actions

The FTC has demanded that these companies immediately stop marketing their Delta-8 THC products in a manner that appeals to children. The letters also urge the companies to review all their product packaging and marketing materials to ensure they do not pose risks to consumers, especially children. Each company is required to contact the FTC within 15 days to outline the steps they have taken to comply with the agency’s demands.

“Inadequate or confusing labeling can result in children or unsuspecting adults consuming products with strong resemblance to popular snacks and candies that contain Delta-8 THC without realizing it,” said FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Namandjé Bumpus, Ph.D.

This action follows a similar initiative in July 2023, where the FTC and FDA sent joint warning letters to six companies for marketing Delta-8 THC edibles in packaging resembling snacks like Doritos and Cheetos.

The primary staff attorney on this matter is Christine DeLorme from the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. The agencies remain committed to safeguarding public health and ensuring that companies comply with federal regulations to protect consumers, particularly vulnerable children.

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