Child-Resistant AND Child-Unappealing: Essential Cannabis Packaging Standards
Cannabis packaging compliance requires both child-resistant mechanisms and child-unappealing design. Secure closures prevent access, while unappealing design ensures products don't attract children's attention. Both requirements protect children and keep cannabis businesses compliant.
A California State Auditor report found that over half of cannabis products reviewed (23 of 40) featured child-appealing packaging, contributing to a 469% increase in cannabis-related poison control calls among children under five between 2016 and 2023.
Understanding Child-Resistant Requirements
Child-resistant packaging creates physical barriers preventing children under five from accessing cannabis products within specified timeframes, while allowing adult access.
Standard child-resistant packaging features used to stay compliant:
Push-and-turn caps requiring simultaneous actions
Squeeze-and-pull mechanisms on flexible containers
Complex locking systems for rigid packaging
Certified testing protocols
However, child-resistant mechanisms don't address visual appeal that draws children's attention. Further safeguards prevent designs that entice children to seek out cannabis products.
Design elements to avoid in Cannabis Packaging to protect children:
Mimicry of Children's Products: No resemblance to toys, cartoons, or familiar foods like candy or cereal
Youth-Oriented Imagery: No cartoons, animated characters, toys, or images of children
Product Photography: Edibles packaging cannot show actual products, especially when resembling familiar foods
Transparent Packaging: Clear components making products visible increase attractiveness to children
Appealing Names: Strain names like Cherry Pie or Lemon Cherry Gelato may violate regulations
Effective cannabis packaging integrates child-resistant and child-unappealing design from the start. Having a complete child-safe strategy from the beginning ensures compliance with both mechanical testing requirements and design standards.
Implementation Strategies for Optimal CR Packaging
Minimalist, neutral color palettes
Professional typography emphasizing adult orientation
Conduct child-appeal assessments before finalizing designs
Premium materials like opaque glass or matte finishes
Use certified child-resistant testing laboratories
Implement consistent adult-oriented branding
Document compliance decisions for inspections
Regular compliance audits of existing products
Protecting Your Cannabis Business
AssurPack® specializes in child-resistant packaging and understands both functionality and design requirements. Professional packaging solutions ensure regulatory compliance while maintaining premium brand presentation for adult consumers.
We make your packaging decisions easy. All our packaging is crafted by Pharma industry packaging experts to exceed cannabis packaging compliance standards. Contact us for consultation and gratis packaging samples to need your product needs, remain compliant, and keep children safe.