Federal authorities issued warnings to five companies for illegally selling food items with a potentially hazardous substance in packaging that closely resembles popular national brands loved by both children and adults. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent warning letters to Hippy Mood, Earthly Hemps, Shamrockshrooms.com, Mary Jane’s Bakery Co. LLC, and Life Leaf Medical CBD Center. Additionally, the FDA issued a warning letter to GrowGod LLC for introducing food products containing delta-8 THC into the market, violating the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. These warnings are part of an initiative by the FDA and FTC to penalize companies selling illegal copycat food items with delta-8 THC.
Delta-8 THC is a compound found in cannabis. THC, the main psychoactive component in marijuana, is responsible for the «high» associated with using marijuana. Concentrated delta-8 THC is usually produced from CBD as it is not naturally occurring in significant amounts in the cannabis plant, as stated by the FDA. Concerns raised by the FDA include the possibility of impurities or variations in the manufacturing process, leading to potentially harmful products with unpredictable effects on consumers.
The FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Namandjé Bumpus expressed worry in a press release about the misleading packaging of these delta-8 THC products, which could result in accidental consumption by children or unsuspecting adults. The FDA emphasized that products resembling popular snacks and candies that contain delta-8 THC pose significant health risks if consumed unknowingly.
Previously, the FDA alerted the public to the dangers of children accidentally ingesting delta-8 THC products. Reports received by the agency between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2023, revealed adverse reactions experienced by individuals, including hospitalizations and emergency department visits, after consuming delta-8 THC products, such as hallucinations, vomiting, tremors, and confusion. The FDA highlighted the risks associated with these copycat food products containing delta-8 THC, which are easily accessible and attractive to young people.
In July 2023, the FDA and FTC warned six companies for selling edible products containing delta-8 THC but packaged in a way that could be mistaken for popular snack brands. The companies no longer carry these products. Samuel Levine, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, emphasized the legal consequences faced by companies prioritizing profits over child safety.
The FDA has requested written responses from the companies within 15 business days detailing how they intend to address violations and prevent future occurrences. Failure to comply may result in legal action, including product seizures.
Источник: Time
