If you’ve been keeping tabs on cannabis legalization and New York packaging laws for the last few years, you know it’s been quite a journey. Over time, there have been massive steps forward, like expanded adult-use laws and tough crackdowns on the illegal market. Here’s a reminder: In 2023, Governor Hochul endorsed a law that slapped unlicensed operators with fines up to $20,000 a day.
In 2024, the Governor authorized the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the NY City Sheriff’s Office to shut down illegal dispensaries and unlicensed shops. Municipalities across the state also passed local laws so their enforcement groups could target unlicensed sellers.
No matter how you look at it, licensed sellers must comply with strict standards. If you’re operating in NY, here’s the lowdown on what you need to keep on file to adhere to New York cannabis packaging laws on materials, labeling, and marketing.
Packaging must-haves
As a seller, you are legally obliged to have a certificate proving your packaging meets federal Poison Prevention Packaging Standards (16 CFR § 1700.15 and § 1700.20). Hang onto that certificate and copies, as New York’s OCM can demand it anytime.
Make sure your labels show milligrams of total THC per serving, an amount of THC per package, information on other cannabinoids, the number of servings, the weight of the product, and all ingredients (including major allergens in bold). New York cannabis packaging laws require a Nutrition Facts section for edibles, along with the accurate identification of storage conditions and a use-by date.
You must also showcase:
- Warnings, warnings, warnings. Print (using at least a 6-point font) key statements like “This product contains cannabinoids,” “For use only by people 21 years and older,” “Avoid consumption if pregnant or nursing,” the Poison Center number (1-800-222-1222), plus any applicable phrases. General things like “Smoking may have an impact on your health” or “Effects may be delayed” are also appropriate. And remember, cannabis packaging laws in New York necessitate the inclusion of one rotating health warning like “Cannabis can be addictive.”
- Universal symbol. Include one of the state-approved “THC!” symbols (a marijuana leaf in a yellow triangle) and a “21+” symbol. It must be at least 0.5-1.25 inches in size – depending on which version of the symbol you use – and stand out against the background.
- Barcode/QR code. It’s a great practice for sellers in 2025 and a legal requirement in NY State. The code must be easy to scan and go to the Certificate of Analysis associated with your products.
You may have many packaging design options, but it cannot look like something that fascinates kids or teens. So, no neon colors, cartoons, bubble letters, or references to candy. “Candy” or “kandy” are off-limits unless it’s a specific cultivar name. Even then, keep it subtle.
Environmental requirements may be new to any marijuana company. The 2024 Cannabis Law amendments stipulate that plastics must contain at least 25% post-consumer recycled material as part of an environmental sustainability plan if you convert your conditional license into a standard license. Reusable material is allowed by the New York cannabis packaging law if it’s sanitized.
Labeling standards
- Principal display panel. One panel (usually the front top) must show the main info in bold, including THC/CBD amounts, serving sizes, the number of servings, total weight, and the terpene profile or directions on where to find it, like “Terpene profile on back.”
- Marketing layer (optional). You can add a separate outer marketing layer for sales purposes. Just remember that all mandatory info must still be visible, even if consumers remove that outer layer.
- Accordion or peel-back labels. If you’re short on space, you can use these labels to cram the required information. However, you are not allowed to hide the universal symbol or the key warnings.
Advertising and marketing laws
Store documentation for all ads and marketing campaigns to prove that at least 90% of your intended audience is 21 or older. For example, keep age verification data or audience analytics from the platforms you use.
Don’t advertise anything as “Organic” or “Craft” until the state sets those standards. Steer clear of health claims, promises of therapeutic benefits, or anything that might mislead consumers. Also, there must be no direct coupon or discount promotions on the labels.
This might sound like a lot, but you’ll be good to go with proper planning and professionally designed labels. Remember to keep your paperwork handy and stay organized. If you have comments regarding any particular cannabis packaging law in New York or regulations in general, you can always contact the OCM.
Product type
All your cannabis-based products must meet the same high standards for labeling and odor control:
- Flowers typically require airtight conditions to keep odors in check. Glass jars with protective lids are popular because they’re airtight, recyclable, and easy to sanitize. If you would like to go lighter, a sturdy resealable pouch (made with at least 25% PCR plastic, per the relevant New York packaging law) can also do the trick.
- Concentrates often come in small volumes. So, look for thick glass or silicone-lined containers that seal tightly to keep out air and contaminants. Many processors adopt glass because it won’t react with the product’s chemicals. That said, you’ll need to account for potential breakage and extra shipping weight.
- Edibles require protective, food-grade linings to prevent contamination. Some opt for plastic or foil-backed pouches because they’re lighter and can be sealed easily. Others prefer metal tins. Either way, you must factor in how well the material protects against moisture and temperature changes.
Your packages must ensure that no product is exposed and there’s no overpowering smell when closed.
Legal compliance is MYLARMEN
Our team can help you adhere to the laws on safety, sustainability, and brand appeal. Feel free to connect with MYLARMEN to stay on top of New York packaging laws when producing retail-ready packages for your hemp products. We’ll guide you through materials, sealers, locks, and proper designs that comply with every regulation in NY.