Maryland’s Bold Move: High-Dose Cannabis Products and GMP Certification

Written July 2023

Introduction

As society’s perception and acceptance of the cannabis industry continue to evolve, the debate surrounding high-dose cannabis products intensifies. While some states have embraced these robust offerings, others have limited the amount of THC in a single serving or package. In this blog post, we will explore the implications of these diverse strategies and examine the rationale behind Maryland’s’ decision.

Maryland's Leap Forward

Maryland has adopted a progressive approach by allowing high-dose cannabis products within its borders (see draft regulations). This momentous shift in Maryland’s cannabis regulation strategy is reinforced by making Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification mandatory for high-dose products. Through this certification process, the state aims to ensure that the potent cannabis offerings meet stringent safety and quality standards.

The Role of GMP Certification

GMP certification guarantees that cannabis businesses abide by strict manufacturing and quality control protocols—covering crucial aspects such as testing procedures, ingredient sourcing methods, and accurate labeling practices. By doing so, Maryland establishes a high benchmark for product quality and fosters responsible practices within the industry. Maryland’s’ decision to permit high-dose cannabis products stems from recognizing the rising demand among consumers for more potent alternatives.

The Benefits of High-Dose Cannabis Products

While low dose products serve as an excellent entry point for beginners or those seeking mild effects. High-dose offerings cater to individuals with medical needs or those with higher tolerances towards cannabis consumption. These potent options provide consumers with a more efficient and convenient experience as they require fewer servings to achieve desired effects. Additionally, high-dose products can prove incredibly valuable for medical cannabis patients who rely on more concentrated doses to manage their symptoms effectively.

In Maryland’s landscape of high-dose cannabis products, GMP certification plays an indispensable role in maintaining product integrity. By mandating compliance with GMP standards, the state ensures that businesses adhere to rigorous quality requirements throughout various stages of cultivation, production, and packaging processes. This certification ensures that cannabis enterprises follow established best practices, significantly reducing contamination risks, mislabeling, or inconsistent potency. Ultimately consumers can have peace of mind knowing that the products they purchase meet uncompromising safety and quality benchmarks.

Contrasting Approaches: Maryland vs. California

Maryland and California have taken divergent paths regarding regulating cannabis dosages. Maryland has opted to embrace high-dose products. Meanwhile, California has adopted a more cautious approach by imposing strict limits on THC per serving and package. There is a cap of 10 milligrams per serving or 100 milligrams per package—measures meaning to mitigate associated risks. However, THC caps restrict consumer choice and potentially hamper business opportunities in specific market segments.

Finding the Right Balance

The differing approaches in Maryland and California reflect an ongoing debate within the cannabis industry surrounding product dosages. Achieving a balance between consumer demand, safety, and regulatory oversight is a challenging task. Although Maryland’s decision to embrace high-dose options is undoubtedly progressive, regulators must consistently evaluate and refine these regulations based on scientific research advancements input from the public and emerging market trends.

Conclusion

Maryland’s’ progressive leap forward in permitting high-dose cannabis products with GMP certification signifies a significant development for the state’s cannabis industry. By offering consumers more potent choices while maintaining strict quality standards, Maryland acknowledges the diverse needs and preferences of its cannabis market. On the other hand, California’s conservative approach aims to reduce risk but may inadvertently limit consumer options. As the cannabis industry continues evolving, striking a balance between safety, quality assurance, and individual freedom becomes paramount for regulators to ensure an accountable and thriving market that caters to everyone.

About Naulls Legal Group

Naulls Legal Group (NLG) is the premier law firm for enterprise compliance representing organizations and cannabis-based businesses based in Southern California. We are well-versed in helping clients navigate corporate compliance with intimate industry experience in the increasingly complex and heavily regulated cannabis industry. At NLG, we help businesses GROW!