(WWJ) -- The Marijuana Regulatory Agency has issued an advisory bulletin to help prevent Michigan children from accidentally eating edibles.
The MRA on Monday released a bulletin "with the objective of helping protect children in Michigan from ingesting edible marijuana-infused products." In the bulletin, the agency provides guidance for marijuana-infused products and its packaging.
The advisory was developed in conjunction with marijuana industry stakeholders and provides applicants, licensees and the public with written and pictorial guidance regarding marijuana-infused edible packaging and products.
While many packages have childproof lids, zippers and seals to prevent easy access, the MRA's advisory on Monday bans packaging and labeling "in shapes and designs that would appeal to minors or be easily confused with commercially sold candy."
The bulletin includes several photo comparisons of actual edible packages that are non-compliant under the packaging rules, and offers possible alternative designs. The photos can be seen here.
The agency says edible products "may not be associated with cartoons, caricatures, toys, designs or shapes that would appeal to minors, including distinct shapes of humans, animals or fruit, including artistic, caricature or cartoon renderings."
"We need to remain vigilant in protecting children from accidentally ingesting marijuana products," said MRA Executive Director Andrew Brisbo, per a press release. "When the products leave the stores, it is important that the packaging is not attractive to minors. Obviously, nothing we can do is as impactful as the watchful eyes of adults, but we want parents in Michigan to know that we are doing everything in our power to prevent children from unknowingly consuming marijuana products."
Robin Schneider, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, applauded the MRA's "ongoing commitment to public health and safety," but did say a large part of responsibility lies with the consumers.
"Our members are working diligently to ensure they are in compliance with all existing rules and regulations regarding cannabis packaging for edible products," Schneider said. "We also urge all cannabis consumers who have children in their homes to take personal responsibility and utilize lock boxes which are readily available at most local health departments for free with no questions asked."
"The Michigan Cannabis Manufacturers Association wholeheartedly supports the MRA's focus on preventing cannabis products from winding up in the hands of children," said Stephen Linder, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Manufacturers Association. "As Michigan's leading cannabis industry association, we are committed first and foremost to customer and product safety, and we fully support product packaging that protects children. Michigan can and should be a national leader in cannabis safety, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This is a critical step toward achieving that goal."
Officials say it is best practice for consumers to lock all marijuana products in a lock box or safe to prevent accidental ingestion.
"If adults choose to use marijuana, they should be mindful of the safety of the children in their lives, just like they would with any other intoxicating substance," the MRA says.
If a child accidentally ingests marijuana, consumers are urged to call the poison control hotline (1-800-222-1222) and watch for the following signs:
-- Problems waking or sitting up
-- Difficulty breathing
-- Sleepiness or drowsiness
If the reaction seems severe, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department.
