With hemp-based products like CBD, Delta 8 and Delta 9 expanding across the United States, it’s vital to know what the labeling requirements are for each state that you operate in!

Unlike many other products, you can’t just come up with a fancy label with a cool design for these type of cannabinoid products. The FDA, along with state regulatory bodies, have a long list of requirements about what can be put on a label, what can’t be put on a label, and how that information is displayed.

In the following article, we’ll look at some of the information which is required to be on all hemp-based products.

Essential Labeling Requirements

While we can’t go into each state’s specific regulations in one blog post (you would be reading for days!), we can cover some basic requirements for hemp-based products.

1. Batch Number & Expiration Date

This set of numbers is how manufacturers track and trace the lifecycle of a product. Third party laboratories also use this number to report test results, confirming the safety and efficacy of the product.

2. Scannable Bar Code or QR Code

Many states now mandate the use of a scannable bar code or QR code that links to a webpage that contains the certificate of analysis of the final product and/or extract used.

You want to find the batch number located on your product to ensure accurate results.

3. Ingredients

As with any food/consumable item, you want to check your products for any allergens or prescribed warnings. The type of hemp extract used should also be identified in this section ie. full spectrum, broad spectrum, isolate.

Another requirement is an indication of the potency of any cannabinoid, with the focus being on Delta 9 THC for regulatory purposes. This will be shown in milligrams (mg).

4. Manufacturer Information

While there are a lot of farms and manufacturers that make their own products, there are many white labeled or third party produced products. Look for the manufacturer or distributor name, including location and contact information.

There is also a separate set of FDA requirements for all supplements, not just hemp-based products, such as:

• An identity statement, which indicates what the product is;

• A net weight statement;

• A statement that reads: “This product is not approved by the FDA to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.”

• A supplement facts panel

Don’t be alarmed if there are no medical statements - most companies in the cannabis industry understand you cannot make any health claims or medical claims on product labeling or advertising. As soon as you make a claim that your product could, for example, ‘cure cancer,’ then you are establishing your product as a medical product or drug rather than a health and wellness product, and the FDA could conclude that you are producing unauthorized drugs or medical products. Its important to do your research on the benefits of each cannabinoid, every person is different.

For a deeper dive into additional labeling requirements, check out our Label Requirements section of our Resource Directory.

Hemp Product Labeling Requirements Conclusion

So, the next time you are looking at the label on your hemp-based product keep this information in mind. Remember, it’s essential that you check each state’s regulations and requirements to ensure that you are in full compliance. If you have any questions about any labeling requirements, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us directly.