An analysis of 2,282 cannabis edible products found over 80% contained at least 100 mg of total THC, and more than 20% featured cartoon characters on packaging.
Cannabis regulators, public health advocates, parents, pediatric poison control specialists
What the researchers found
Among 2,282 cannabis edible products from US online dispensaries, over half were gummies and 80%+ contained at least 100 mg total THC. Child-appealing elements were prevalent: 20%+ displayed cartoon or human-like characters, nearly all were flavored (primarily fruit), and over half had packaging with four or more colors. Only 16.4% included underage use warnings. Serving size information was frequently absent, and 77% had product-specific promotions.
Why it matters
Cannabis edibles are the fastest-growing product category and the form most likely to be accidentally consumed by children. The combination of high THC content, child-appealing packaging, and inadequate warnings creates a significant pediatric safety concern.
The numbers in context
2,282 edible products analyzed; 80%+ contained 100+ mg total THC; 20%+ had cartoon/character images; nearly all flavored (fruit most common); 50%+ used 4+ colors; only 16.4% had underage use warnings; 27.7% had non-health claims; 77% had promotions
How the study worked
Content analysis of 2,282 cannabis edible products from US online dispensaries identified through the National Cannabis Industry Association member directory. Assessed front-of-package information, child-oriented features, health claims, warnings, and promotional strategies during November 2023 and August 2024.
What this study cannot tell us
Online product listings may not reflect what consumers actually see in stores. Content analysis assessed packaging features, not their actual impact on youth behavior. Cannot determine regulatory compliance at the time of sale. Products may differ across state markets.
How to read the evidence
Moderate: systematic content analysis with large sample, but focused on product characteristics rather than health outcomes.
When this study was published
2025 publication with data from 2023-2024
The bigger picture
Poison control center calls for pediatric cannabis exposures have increased dramatically alongside legalization. This study documents the marketing practices that likely contribute to accidental exposures and normalization of use among youth.
Questions still open
- Would mandatory child-resistant packaging and plain packaging requirements reduce pediatric exposures?
- How do these marketing practices compare to tobacco and alcohol regulatory standards?
Read the original research
A content analysis of cannabis edible product characteristics, packaging features, and online promotions.
Preventive medicine, 198, 108336
Citation
Han, Bing; Shi, Yuyan. (2025). A content analysis of cannabis edible product characteristics, packaging features, and online promotions.. Preventive medicine, 198, 108336. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2025.108336
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