The amended Cannabis Regulations comes into effect on October 17, 2019, meaning that the legal sales of edible cannabis, cannabis extracts and cannabis topicals will begin shortly thereafter in accordance with the requirements of the Cannabis Act and the Cannabis Regulations. But what does that mean for you? Get your answers below.

What products are being introduced? 

The new regulations will give authorized distributors and retailers access to three new classes of cannabis products:

  • Edibles (candy, baked goods)
  • Cannabis extracts
  • Cannabis “topicals” (ointments, oils, makeup)

Cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages and cannabis products containing tobacco, nicotine or caffeine will be prohibited. Some goods with low amounts of naturally occurring caffeine, such as chocolate, will be permitted.

What will be available on October 17? 

Nothing. Although the law goes into effect, according to Health Canada, federal cannabis license holders must provide Health Canada with a 60 day notice of their intent to sell the new products. That means that the earliest edibles will be available in stores is December 17. The majority of new cannabis products are expected to roll out in 2020. You can see here to find out how there are ways to be relieved from pain through various products.

Health Canada said in a statement that, “As with any new regulatory framework, federally licensed processors will need time to become familiar with and prepare to comply with the new rules and to produce new products. Provincially or territorially authorized distributors and retailers will also need time to purchase and obtain the new products and make them available for sale.”

Will there be different levels of THC? 

Going forward, the rule stipulates that all cannabis edibles, be it food or drink, will have a THC limit of 10 milligrams per package. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the compound known for producing the “high.” On the other hand, cannabis products meant for inhalation or topical application will still have a maximum THC cap of 1000 milligrams per package. This change in regulation is aimed at promoting the safe and appropriate use of cannabis. It’s necessary to consider the needs of those using cannabis for medical reasons, including those with metastatic cancer cannabis, as studies show that cannabinoids could be potential combination partners for established chemotherapeutic agents or other therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment.

What’s the deal with packaging? 

All packaging will be plain, child resistant and unappealing to younger people.

Can’t I buy edibles already? Why is this regulation being introduced? 

Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction Minister Bill Blair said, “I’ve heard from the industry and people say, ‘You know, we could make more money if you did this or relaxed these regulations.’ But quite frankly, that’s not our motivation. Our motivation is, and will always be, to protect our kids, protect health and safety of Canadians, to keep our communities safe and displace that illicit market that has developed over decades in this country.”

“We are replacing those illegal products, those far riskier products, with a safer product, with a regulated product,” he said.

The sad news; edibles won’t be available until December 17. The good news; you get to partake just in time to get through the holidays.