Cannabis Edibles In Canada Explained

Cannabis Edibles In Canada Explained

The Joint CannabisJun 23, '21

Even though cannabis was legalised across Canada in 2018, it wasn’t until 2019 that we finally saw shelves stocked with cannabis edibles. Consumers can choose from gummies, chocolate bars, flavoured drinks, and more.

If you’re trying to cut back on smoking, or you’re looking for a tasty snack that packs a punch, cannabis edibles may be right for you. But consuming edibles is markedly different from smoking or vaping cannabis. Before you try it, here are a few things to note:

  • Edibles are more potent. If you were to smoke cannabis on one day, then consume edibles on another, you may notice that the edible version had stronger effects. Even if the THC and CBD content is the same, your body processes cannabis differently depending on how it’s consumed.

  • It takes longer to kick in. Combustible cannabis takes effect within minutes. But with edibles, it’s important to go slowly—you might not feel anything for an hour or more. Make sure to wait at least 1 ½ hours before consuming more.

  • The effects last longer. After you take an edible, be prepared for a long night! The high from smoking or vaping cannabis might last a few hours, but the effects of edibles can last up to 7-12 hours.

  • In Canada, specific laws surround the production and marketing of edible cannabis. We’re going to explain how edibles are regulated in The Great White North:


    Packaging

    You won’t see bright labels and creative packaging when you’re purchasing edibles. To make these products less appealing to children, the labels must be plain and basic. Brands are prohibited from using too many colours or vibrant patterns.

    The label itself needs to include the THC and CBD content of the product. In addition, it will feature health warnings from Health Canada.


    Potency

    There’s a limit on how potent edibles can be. No more than 10-milligrams of THC are permitted in these products. This restriction is designed to prevent people from accidentally overconsuming edibles.

    It is prohibited to add substances like alcohol, nicotine, or vitamins and minerals to edible cannabis products.


    Safety

    Just like dried cannabis, edibles need to be packaged in childproof containers. Secure packaging prevents a young child from mistaking a package of cannabis gummies for a snack. It also keeps edible cannabis out of reach of pets.


    Possession Limit

    Just as you can only legally carry a certain amount of dried cannabis, you can only carry so much edible cannabis on you in a public space. In Canada, the legal possession limit is 450 grams of edible cannabis. Carrying any more than this is considered a criminal offence.


    Preventing Cross-Contamination

    If you have plans to order your favourite cannabis-infused beverage in a restaurant, we have bad news for you. In Canada, restaurants cannot serve any food or drink that contains cannabis. 

    When it comes to manufacturing edibles, it cannot be done in the same facility where other products are created. And to prevent the risk of food-borne illnesses, edible cannabis cannot contain raw meat, fish, or poultry.


    Edible cannabis comes in all sorts of forms—these days, there are chocolate bars, tea bags, and soft baked goods. Interested in giving edibles a shot? The Joint has a cannabis shop on Henderson with a wide selection of tasty edibles. On our website, you can sort by brand name or THC content. 

    At The Joint, we always have something in stock for you; check out our online store today!