In New Jersey, the cannabis industry is governed by strict packaging and labeling regulations enforced by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC). These standards are designed to protect consumers, prevent access by minors, and promote transparency in cannabis product information.
Packaging Requirements
All cannabis products must be sold in packaging that meets several critical compliance criteria:
- Child-Resistant: Packaging must be difficult for children under five to open and meet federal child-safety standards.
- Tamper-Evident: Any attempts to open or alter the product should be easily visible to the consumer.
- Opaque and Light-Resistant: Packaging must conceal the product from view and prevent degradation from light.
- Single-Color Design: External packaging must consist of a single color. Logos or symbols are permitted but must not exceed one inch in height or length.
- Resealable: For products with multiple servings, packaging must be resealable in a child-resistant manner. Single-serving products are exempt from this rule.
Labeling Requirements
New Jersey mandates that all cannabis product labels display comprehensive information for consumer safety and product transparency:
- Product Details: Labels must clearly list the product name, type (e.g., flower, edible), net weight or volume, and a full list of active and inactive ingredients.
- Potency Information: THC and CBD content must be listed in milligrams per serving and per package.
- Production Data: Each label must include the date of manufacture, expiration or use-by date, batch number, and a unique identifier or QR code that enables traceability.
- Health Warnings: Labels must contain clear warnings about impairment, risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and safe storage to keep out of reach of children and animals.
- Universal Symbol: The official New Jersey cannabis symbol must appear prominently on the package and, when feasible, on each individual serving.
Prohibited Packaging Practices
To prevent appeal to children and promote responsible marketing, the CRC prohibits the following:
- Child-Appealing Imagery: Cartoons, toys, or imagery that could be attractive to minors are banned.
- Misleading Designs: Packaging must not imitate non-cannabis products or mislead consumers about the product’s effects or safety.
- Encouragement of Overuse: Marketing language or imagery that promotes excessive consumption is not allowed.
Sustainability Encouragement
While not required, the CRC recommends the use of recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging materials to reduce environmental impact. Businesses are encouraged to adopt eco-conscious practices that align with state sustainability goals.
In Review
Compliance with New Jersey’s cannabis packaging and labeling laws is essential for operating legally and responsibly. These rules help ensure that cannabis products are safely marketed and distributed, while supporting informed consumer choices. Operators should regularly consult CRC resources to stay up to date on evolving regulatory requirements.