As more U.S. states legalize cannabis and cannabis products, the industry is experiencing rapid growth. New cannabis businesses are emerging daily, facing unique challenges in packaging their products professionally. This is particularly true for cannabis edibles, which require special consideration for both dried cannabis ingredients and finished products like baked goods or body care items.
If you’re launching or running a cannabis edibles business, it’s crucial to understand the various packaging options and how they align with your products. From maintaining product quality to meeting regulatory requirements, edibles packaging presents both challenges and innovative solutions for this dynamic industry.
Challenges facing the cannabis edibles industry
While attractive packaging is essential for any product, cannabis edibles present unique challenges for businesses. States have implemented specific laws when it comes to cannabis product packaging, and there are also marketing hurdles to overcome.
Let’s look a few of the key packaging challenges facing businesses in the cannabis industry today:
Legal challenges
The legal landscape for cannabis edibles packaging is complex and varies by state. Here are common legal considerations:
Labeling requirements
Many states have enacted laws with very specific labeling requirements for cannabis edibles and products. While the specifics may vary, most states require businesses to clearly label:
- THC content (in milligrams)
- Overall product weight
- Serving size
- Origins of the cannabis used in the product (in some states)
As a cannabis business, it’s important to stay informed about the labeling requirements in your state to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues. Get the full scoop on cannabis labeling requirements.
Child resistant packaging
Since cannabis products are often regulated similarly to tobacco and alcohol, they are firmly considered adult products. This means that the packages you use for your edibles must be child-resistant, typically through:
- Locking zip closures
- Child resistant screw tops
- Push-and-turn mechanisms
Ensuring your packaging meets these requirements is essential for legal compliance and consumer safety. Discover what you need to know about child-proof packaging for cannabis products.
Food safety considerations
It’s important to remember that cannabis edibles are still food products. As such, you may need to comply with local laws regarding food safety. Your packaging should:
- Seal in freshness
- Protect against bacteria and other contaminants
- Meet any additional food safety regulations specific to your area
Marketing challenges
In addition to legal requirements, cannabis edibles businesses face unique marketing challenges:
Establishing legitimacy
One of the primary marketing challenges in the cannabis industry is making your products look professional. With a long history of homemade “pot brownies” and other DIY edibles, commercial edibles companies need to set their products apart by using professional packaging that avoids counterculture references.
Child-proof marketing
A significant concern for both lawmakers and consumers is ensuring that cannabis products are not attractive to children. Even though you may be producing cookies, candies, and other treats that children typically enjoy, your packaging and labeling need to be clearly adult-oriented. This requires a delicate balance between appealing design and responsible marketing.
For more insights on standing out in the market, check out our guide on cannabis branding tips.
Types of packaging for cannabis edibles & other products
Now that we’ve covered the challenges, let’s explore the various packaging options available for cannabis edibles. Each type of packaging offers unique benefits and considerations:
Glass containers
Glass is an excellent material for packaging cannabis edibles for several reasons:
- Non-reactive – Glass doesn’t interact with the product, preserving the flavor and potency of your edibles.
- Transparent – Allows customers to see the product, which can be a selling point for visually appealing edibles.
- Reusable – Environmentally conscious consumers appreciate packaging that can be repurposed.
However, if you need to protect your product from sunlight, you might consider opaque glass or pair clear glass with additional protective packaging. Learn about the benefits of glass jars for packaging your cannabis.
Plastic containers
For versatility and practicality in cannabis edibles packaging, plastic containers provide:
- Variety – Available in numerous shapes and sizes to suit different products.
- Safety – Many plastic containers come with child-proof closures for compliance.
- Cost-effective – Generally more affordable than glass or metal alternatives.
To address concerns about chemical leaching, consider using food-safe inner packaging before placing products in plastic containers. Find out how to make your edibles packaging stand out in today’s competitive market.
Mylar bags
Mylar bags have become increasingly popular for cannabis edibles packaging:
- Versatility – Available in clear or opaque options to suit your product needs.
- Odor control – Helps contain the smell of cannabis-infused products.
- Moisture resistance – Protects edibles from humidity and keeps them fresh.
- Child-resistant options – Many Mylar bags feature child-resistant zip closures.
These bags are particularly well-suited for products like cannabis-infused gummies, chocolates or baked goods.
Foil bags
Foil-lined packaging offers several benefits for cannabis edibles:
- Preserves freshness – Excellent at protecting flavors and aromas.
- Light protection – Blocks light that could degrade the product.
- Familiar to consumers – Similar to packaging used for teas and other herbal products.
- Reclosable options – Many foil bags can be resealed for storage.
Foil bags are a great choice for products like cannabis-infused coffee, tea or powdered drink mixes.
Child-resistant closures: A crucial consideration
Regardless of the packaging type you choose, child-resistant closures are often a legal requirement for cannabis edibles. Some common child-resistant closure options include:
- Push-and-turn tops (similar to prescription pill bottles)
- Locking zip closures for bags and pouches
- Pop-top or squeeze-top mechanisms
Be sure to check your local laws regarding cannabis sales so you can be assured that you’re using the appropriate child-resistant closures for your weed products.
5 factors for choosing the right edibles packaging
If you’re new to selecting the packaging for your cannabis edibles, we recommend that you consider the following factors:
- Compliance: Ensure your packaging meets all state and local regulations.
- Protection: Choose packaging that preserves the quality and freshness of edibles.
- Brand image: Select packaging that aligns with your brand identity and target market.
- Functionality: Consider ease of use for consumers while maintaining child-resistance.
- Sustainability: Consider eco-friendly packaging options for eco-conscious consumers.
Learn about sustainable packaging options for marijuana products.
Amplify your cannabis edibles with professional packaging
You’ve invested time and effort into creating high-quality cannabis edibles, and your packaging should reflect that dedication. Professional packaging not only ensures compliance with regulations but also helps your products shine in an increasingly competitive market.
At Green Rush Packaging, we offer a wide variety of packaging solutions for cannabis edibles. Our team can work with you to find the perfect packaging to meet legal requirements, protect your products and showcase your brand. We also carry comprehensive packaging solutions for every cannabis product category:
- Flower & edibles packaging: child-resistant containers, barrier bags and glass jars
- Pre roll packaging: Tubes, glass jars, and cases
- Concentrate packaging: Glass containers and barrier bags
- CBD packaging: Specialized solutions for CBD products
- Exit packaging & accessories: Compliant retail packaging
- Vape cartridge packaging: Secure cartridge solutions
- Beverage packaging: Specialized child-resistant drink caps
- Custom-branded packaging: Turn your vision into reality
With the right packaging, you can be assured that your products are safe, compliant and ready to make a lasting impression on consumers. No matter which packaging solution you choose for your cannabis edibles, success comes down to selecting the right combination of protection, compliance and brand expression.
When it’s time to optimize your edibles packaging, trust our experts. Explore our selection of child resistant packaging and Mylar barrier bags to find the best option for your cannabis edibles. Plus, you’ll get same-day shipping from our nearest warehouse location.
Explore our selection of child resistant packaging and Mylar barrier bags to find the best option for your cannabis edibles.
