Major food brands are worried about weed edibles copying their packaging. And they’re taking the matter to Congress.
Accidentally ingesting cannabis has become an increasing occurrence in children. Aside from the fact that cannabis edibles have never been more popular, there’s also the fact that cannabis products love to market their items as enticing candies and sweets, many times copying the designs of Cheetos, Oreos, and the like. It was only a matter of time before big brands got involved.
The Washington Post reports that major food and beverages companies are calling on Congress to take a stance against these products, preventing their spread. These companies, which include Kellogg and General Mills, want to expand on a law called the Shop Safe Act, preventing THC products that mimic their brands from being sold and distributed.
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These brands are not only concerned about the use of their iconography, they’re also responding to a rising trend of accidental cannabis overdoses, a number that includes children lured by edibles’ appealing packaging.
“I don’t imagine a lot of people are trying to dose kids,” epidemiologist Danielle Ompad told The Washington Post. “But kids have gotten a hold of people’s products. Even if parents have carefully put them away, kids are crafty little creatures.” While she makes it clear that the majority of cannabis edibles don’t copy the look of well known brands, these products are more likely to be unregulated and be sold online. Usually, these products are made by new companies who are trying to capture buyers with puns and packaging that they’re already acquainted with.
The Shop Safe Act bars the sale of counterfeit products. Brands want these new rules to be revised, adding the term “famous mark,” which would prevent other products from using color motifs and designs that are associated with the original brand.
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Reputable cannabis brands are taking measures such as making their packaging childproof and adding clear labels on their wrappings. Still, it’s up to the parents to consume their edibles and marijuana products responsibly, ensuring that their products are kept safely away from their kids.
