Missouri Enacts New Cannabis Packaging Rules

Missouri officials have released new rules for cannabis packaging in the state, limiting colors on packages to one primary package color and up to two logos or symbols that can be of different colors, the Springfield News-Leader reports. The logos or symbols cannot be larger than the clearly printed word, “Marijuana,” which must appear on the packaging in black or white text. 

All cannabis product packaging must also feature a warning label that says: “Cognitive and physical impairment may result from the use of marijuana. Keep out of reach of children.” 

Any violation of the new rules carries a potential $5,000 fine. 

Tony Billmeyer, chief marketing officer of Show-Me Organics, told the News-Leader that the company is hoping for more “clarity” on the new rules. 

“The challenge with that is cannabis is an incredibly complex product that has lots of varying properties. If you imagine a similar category like wine … If you thought of walking into a wine store and all the labels are pretty much just about consumer safety, I don’t know if that’s actually going to help. People find a lot of benefits from just being able to navigate things visually.” — Billmeyer to the News-Leader 

Starting September 1, manufacturers will have to receive approval from the Department of Health and Senior Services’ (DHSS) Division of Cannabis Regulation for new packaging, labeling, and product design to ensure they are compliant with the new rules. If approved, the manufacturer will receive a number that must be printed on the product packaging. DHSS is allowing manufacturers to use existing packaging through January 31. Products that are not compliant with the new rules must be pulled from shelves by Feb. 1, 2024, and any products that do not have a Division of Cannabis Regulation-issued approval number will be discontinued.