Washington regulators will ban the production and sale of cannabis-infused gummies and hard candies, according to an online presentation from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB).
The change was made in response to complaints the Board received about the products in question for being too appealing to children.
The Board listed the rule update:
“WAC 314-55-077(7): A marijuana processor is limited in the types of food or drinks they may infuse with marijuana. Marijuana-infused products that are especially appealing to children are prohibited. Products such as, but not limited to, gummy candies, lollipops, cotton candy, or brightly colored products, are prohibited.” — Excerpt from the WSLCB presentation
The rule change takes effect on January 1, 2019, but retailers have until April 3, 2019 to offload any remaining infused gummy or hard candy products.
While gummies and hard candies make up a tiny fraction of Washington’s adult-use cannabis market, for some companies they are a whole lot more. Jamie Hoffman, the owner of Craft Elixirs, told the Yakima Herald that her company’s popular Pioneer Square products — which are described as a “candied artisan fruit chew” — make up 84 percent of her company’s bottom line.
Hoffman said she’s not yet sure whether or not her product will fall victim to the rule change. “We’re hoping we’re not going to be collateral damage because of mistakes by others,” she said.
The WSLCB reminded its followers of the state’s “allowable” infused edible products, which now include just:
- Beverages
- Baked Goods
- Capsules
- Chips and Crackers
- Sauces and Spices
- Tinctures
The WSLCB announced a webinar on October 16 to address questions and concerns about this new development.
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