Deceptive THC Snacks: FTC Crackdown
Introduction
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have taken action against six companies for marketing delta-8 THC products that resemble popular snacks and candies. According to the FTC, these companies violated the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by using unsafe additives and engaging in deceptive marketing practices.
FTC’s Cease-and-Desist Letters
The FTC and FDA sent cease-and-desist letters to Delta Munchies, Dr. Smoke, Exclusive Hemp Farms, The Haunted Vapor Room, Nikte’s Wholesale, and North Carolina Hemp Exchange. These companies manufactured and marketed delta-8 THC products in packaging that closely resembled well-known snack brands such as Doritos, Cheetos, and Nerds candy. This raised concerns about potential appeal to children and deceptive marketing practices.
Violations and Federal Attention
The letters alleged violations of the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, including the use of unsafe food additives and the introduction of adulterated food into interstate commerce. The FTC stated that putting intoxicating cannabinoid products in packaging that could potentially confuse or appeal to children is “reckless and illegal.” Samuel Levine, the director of the agency’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, emphasized the need to immediately cease marketing edible Delta-8 THC products that imitate conventional foods.
