The Long Wait For Edibles Is Almost Over

After a two and a half year delay, Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers have been given some direction from the state on how to begin the sale of marijuana edibles to qualified patients. Per the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services rule 5K-11, which is to become effective on March 16th, 2020, information has been made available for MMTC’s on permitting, fees, inspection requirements, and administrative penalties.

Prior to producing or manufacturing Edibles, Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers must obtain a food permit pursuant to ch. 500, F.S., submit a list of all edibles they plan to produce and manufacture, meet all department inspection requirements in addition to permitting requirements. Per the released rules “Marijuana Oil shall not be considered an unapproved food additive as defined in s. 500.03(1)(o), F.S., if used in the production and manufacture of Edibles by a licensed MMTC pursuant to s. 381.986, F.S., and in accordance with this rule chapter”. Although removed from the list of unapproved additives for MMTC, detailed information on THC potency in addition to labeling rules are still required before sales will begin.

MMTC has been busy setting up licensing agreements with a variety of Edibles companies from across the country, including Binske, Wana, Incredibles, 1906 and others, making it very likely that a large variety of edibles will be made available. It is also anticipated that edible options will make up an increasing portion of Florida’s Medical Marijuana Sales. As MMTC’s across the state begin permitting and receiving approval, we will begin to see edible options finally come to market.

Why Edibles?

For patients who are unable to smoke cannabis or choose not to smoke it for a variety of reasons, edibles offer an additional consumption option. When cannabis is consumed orally it enters the bloodstream, is digested in the stomach and is absorbed by the intestines. Since there is no exposure to tar, carbon or other carcinogens, it is often considered a healthier option for medical marijuana consumption and dosing. The process of decarboxylation that naturally occurs to cannabinoids during edible production create products which often provide an ideal treatment option and symptom reduction method for many health conditions including chronic pain, muscle inflammation and spasms, nervous system disorders, autoimmune disorders, insomnia, and nausea

It is very important to start at a low dose when ingesting cannabis, as it will affect patients differently than smoking the whole flower. The intensity and length of effects depend on several factors including the potency of the edibles you are using, your tolerance, your body chemistry, and even what you’ve recently had to eat. Read more on MMJ Edibles and our introduction to “Dabs“.