According to a new study, products with delta-8-THC often have inconsistent and unclear labeling of the amount of active ingredient and sometimes contain very high dosages. This is reported by the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs in its March 2026 issue. The study analyzed packaging of 140 delta-8-THC products submitted by participants in the International Cannabis Policy Study in the U.S. and Canada.

Delta-8 THC products — including gummies, brownies, vapes, pre-rolls, and tinctures — have gained a lot of popularity since the 2018 Farm Bill. The U.S. law legalized hemp with less than 0.3 percent delta-9-THC, creating a legal gray area for hemp-derived cannabinoids such as delta-8-THC. These products are often marketed as “legal cannabis” and are available in gas stations, headshops, and online, but are subject to significantly less regulation than cannabis from licensed dispensaries.

The study showed that the active ingredient information remained unclear, especially for vape products: Milligram information was often given without specifying the total weight, so that the concentration (mg/g) was not recognizable. In the case of edibles, the declared amounts were often high: More than half of the edibles analyzed contained at least 25 mg of delta-8-THC per piece – significantly more than the upper limit of 10 mg for delta-9-THC per serving, which is common in many countries.

Many of the packaging was visually aimed at younger consumers: bright colours, fruity or sweet flavour descriptions and references to music and parties were common. Terms such as “organic”, “natural” or “vegan” often convey a health impression, although delta-8-THC has an intoxicating effect and carries risks.

The researchers led by Meagan Robichaud from the Rutgers Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies emphasized that the unclear dosage and youth-oriented marketing could endanger consumer safety. High single doses in a single gummy or candy increased the risk of unwanted overdoses and adverse effects.

Delta-8-THC is chemically related to delta-9-THC and also has psychoactive effects, but is considered slightly less potent. Due to the lack of nationwide regulation, quality and purity vary greatly. Some US states have already banned or strictly regulated delta-8 THC products.

The study underlines the need for clear labelling, uniform dosage limits and effective warnings to better protect consumers, especially young people.

Original paper:

Product Characteristics, Warnings, and Marketing Appeals Conveyed on Delta-8 THC Product Packaging in the United States and Canada: Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs: Vol 87, No 2

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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