Why you can’t buy edibles in New Jersey

New Jersey instituted legal cannabis sales on April 20 and achieved $24 million in cannabis sales in its first month after a record-breaking first day in which consumers spent $2 million on weed. One thing they can’t get their hands on, though, is edibles.

According to New Jersey state law, no cannabis product resembling edibles may be purchased. This odd ruling appears to have been influenced by the news about edibles and children, which Jersey lawmakers believe these products could pose a risk to them.

Over the past year, there have been growing reports of children consuming edibles, which often come in tempting, colorful packaging and contain everything from candy to cookies.

Photo by Kindel Media via Pexels

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Jersey isn’t the first state to try to contain the problem. New York is currently preparing to launch its legal recreational cannabis industry, with laws designed to prevent children from consuming these products. In the state, edible packaging must avoid cartoons, bright colors, and all types of fonts that might tempt children.

Another factor that influenced the state’s decision is the way edibles are made. Making legal edibles requires commercial kitchens that must meet the state’s necessary health and safety standards, a system yet to be established by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC).

Edibles are among the most popular ways to consume marijuana, and while they’re a delicious and convenient way to consume weed, they also have a number of specific medicinal benefits. Edibles are capable of delivering powerful therapeutic results and offering a ton of pain relief in a way that inhaled cannabis isn’t typically associated with. Edibles are also a great option for users who don’t want to inhale smoke or are unable to do so for health reasons.

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While the edibles ban marks an odd new twist for legal marijuana, Jersey is unlikely to ban them for long. Once the industry takes root and customers begin to become more familiar with products, legislators will likely have to address the issue and enact new rules that protect children while still delivering the products people want. It will just take more time.