Delta-8 – also known as delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol – is the newest cannabis compound creating waves in the market. Its sales have skyrocketed over the last few months, creating plenty of buzz.

With such tremendous growth, it’s evident that Delta-8 is popular, but there is one primary concern — is it legal or not? Read on to learn more about Delta-8 THC.

What is Delta-8?

Delta-8 is one of the cannabinoids (chemical compounds) that naturally occur in the same cannabis plant that produces hemp and marijuana.

Delta-8’s effects on the body are nearly identical to those of the more commonly referenced Delta-9, which produces a range of mental, physical, and emotional effects. However, Delta-8 is less potent, and its users are said to have a clearer head and lower levels of anxiety and paranoia. In addition, most of the Delta-8 on the market today is made from hemp-extracted cannabidiol. Since hemp is federally legal, this has created much confusion concerning its legal status.

Is Delta-8 legal?

The legal status of this substance under federal law isn’t entirely clear. Generally, the use of Delta-8 is not explicitly prohibited, and only a few state laws have directly addressed its legality. However, many federal laws that cover the use of cannabis and marijuana focus mainly on cannabis, marijuana, Delta-9 THC, and CBD.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalizes all hemp products and extracts with a Delta-9 concentration of less than 0.3%, theoretically making Delta-8 a legal substance. But Delta-8 is mentioned nowhere in this bill. Still, some states have decided to pass state laws to make it expressly illegal in their jurisdiction.

It’s worth noting that almost all Delta-8 currently on the market is derived from hemp and not cannabis, making it part of a federally legal chain. That is also why it’s sold in some of the states where cannabis isn’t allowed.

As of July 14, 2021, Delta-8 is banned or restricted in 17 states and is under review in 4 more. Currently, Delta-8 is banned or restricted in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Kentucky, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and Washington.

What are the Effects of Delta-8 THC?

Given the significant similarities between Delta-8 and Delta-9, users may experience nearly the same effects. However, you can expect the former to produce milder results than the latter.

Its effects may include:

  • Uplifting feelings
  • Mild euphoria
  • Relief of pain
  • Help with insomnia

Delta-8’s side effects also overlap with those of Delta-9 THC and can include dry mouth, paranoia, red eyes, faster heart rate, anxiety, short-term memory loss, and more.

Get Cannabis Safety Training at ImEPIK

What goes into your product is as important as the process of how it’s made. So, if you’re considering entering the cannabis edibles market, don’t hesitate to contact ImEPIK for comprehensive food safety training. Not only do you want to make a good, quality product, but you also want to ensure it’s safe to eat.

The Cannabis Edibles Safety Course offers multiple levels of interactive learning. The course is 100% online, and you can take it at your pace as you become an expert in the industry. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to help your facility make a safe product and prepare for the day when marijuana is federally legal.

For more information, contact us via web chat or by email at support@imepik.com or phone at 866-318-9855. We look forward to helping you make safe food!