Since hemp-derived cannabinoid items have the potential to be the natural-product industry’s next big superstar, ingredients manufacturers are being asked to look at packaging that protects the product and kids alike, while complying with regulations.
The dried flowers and the resin of the hemp plant have been considered a stimulant or intoxicant for a long time. However, the natural active ingredients of the hemp plant are also increasingly and legally used for medical purposes. The market for the pharmacologically active components of hemp is growing. For example, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are found in flowers, edibles and concentrates.
Medical marijuana is now legalized to varying degrees in 42 States of the US. While cannabis regulations are different in every legal state – be it medicinal or recreational – it is safe to assume that cannabis packaging need to be certified child-resistant (CR).
Hoffmann Neopac offers different type of certified CR packaging for cannabis edibles, concentrates, oils and creams or vape pen refills.
Volume: 50, 100 and 500 ml
with dropper function for concentrates or vape pen refill
More about tubes
Volume: 50, 100 and 500 ml
with dropper function for concentrates or vape pen refill
More about tubes
Child-resistant packaging is also referred to as « special packaging » and is used to reduce the risk of poisoning in children via the ingestion of potentially hazardous substances. They include certain prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication, pesticides and household chemicals.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates CR packaging via the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) since 1972.
PPPA, « The term "special packaging" means packaging that is designed or constructed to be significantly difficult for children under five years of age to open or obtain a toxic or harmful amount of the substance contained therein within a reasonable time and not difficult for normal adults to use properly. »
The detailed testing procedure for special packaging is outlined in 16 CFR § 1700.20(a)(2)(iii).
In short: Panels of 50 children from 42-51 months old need to perform the test. First, the children are given five minutes to open the packaging. Then, they are shown how to open the packaging and given five more minutes to try. A maximum of 200 children may be tested. The threshold for passing is 80%, which means that no more than 20% of the children should be able to open the packaging in order for it to pass.
Later, a panel of 100 senior adults aged 50-70 years is individually tested. 90% of the adults need to be able to open and properly reclose the packaging within five minutes and, within one minute, be able to open and close two « non CR packagings ».