Starting January 1, 2024, Colorado has new cannabis labeling rules. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Changes for 2024:
- Products must show use-by dates (within 9 months of packaging)
- Storage instructions required on labels
- New safety monitoring system
- Updated microbial testing rules
| Basic Label Requirements | What’s Required |
|---|---|
| THC Symbol | ½ inch x ½ inch red symbol on front |
| Text Size | Minimum 1/16 inch tall |
| Language | English only |
| Warnings | Health risks, age limits (21+), pregnancy risks |
| Product Info | License numbers, batch numbers, ingredients |
Not Allowed on Labels:
- "Candy" or "Candies" terms
- Health benefit claims
- Misleading statements
- False potency claims
| Product Type | Special Requirements |
|---|---|
| Flower | Net weight, THC/CBD content, batch numbers |
| Concentrates | Extraction method, potency, education guide |
| Edibles | 10mg THC max per serving, allergen warnings |
Important Deadlines:
- January 1, 2024: Use-by dates and storage info required
- August 7, 2024: Two-year business licenses start
- January 1, 2027: RFID tags become optional
Breaking these rules can lead to:
- Product holds
- Forced destruction
- License problems
- Legal penalties
"Companies that embrace these new testing standards will end up with safer, better products." – Darwin Millard, Technical Director of CSQ Cannabis Safety & Quality
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Basic Label Requirements
Here’s what you need on your Colorado cannabis product labels:
Cannabis Symbol Rules
| Symbol Type | Size | Placement | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Symbol (All Products) | ½ inch x ½ inch minimum | Front of container | Warning text below |
| Black Symbol (Edibles) | ¼ inch x ¼ inch minimum | On each serving | Must be stamped/marked |
Put "Contains Marijuana. Keep away from children." right under the symbol.
Text Size and Language Rules
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Minimum Text Size | 1/16 inch tall |
| Language | English only |
| Text Placement | Easy to read, no blocking |
| Label Position | Easy to spot on container |
Required Warnings
You MUST include warnings about:
- Health risks
- Age limits (21+)
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding risks
- Driving/machinery risks
- Legal only in Colorado
- Effects of intoxication
What Not to Put on Labels
| Not Allowed | Why |
|---|---|
| "Candy" or "Candies" | State banned these words |
| Health benefit claims | Not legal |
| Misleading statements | Against the law |
| False potency claims | Must be within 15% of stated amount |
Starting 2024, you’ll need:
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Use-by Date | 9 months max from packaging |
| Storage Info | How to store properly |
| License Numbers | Your facility ID |
| Batch Numbers | Track production batches |
| Ingredients | Full list with pesticides |
"Beginning January 1, 2024, all regulated marijuana products must be labeled with a use-by date and storage conditions prior to sale to a patient or consumer." – MED news release excerpt
Need help with labels? ProGrowth’s packaging design team makes sure your labels follow ALL Colorado rules while keeping your brand looking sharp.
Labels by Product Type
Flower Labels
| Required Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Identity | "Marijuana Flower" or strain name |
| Net Weight | Total weight in grams |
| THC/CBD Content | Percentage and mg per unit |
| Batch Numbers | Production batch tracking ID |
| Test Results | Potency and contaminant results |
| Use-by Date | Maximum 9 months from packaging |
| Storage Info | Temperature and humidity needs |
Concentrate Labels
| Required Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | "Marijuana Concentrate" |
| Extraction Method | Solvent or solventless process |
| Net Weight | Weight in grams |
| THC/CBD Content | Potency in mg and percentage |
| Batch Info | Production batch number |
| Education Resource | Must attach MED-approved guide |
| Storage Details | Temperature requirements |
Here’s what’s new: Starting August 7, 2024, every concentrate sale MUST include the MED’s education guide – either with the receipt or on the package itself.
Edibles Labels
| Required Element | Specification |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | Max 10mg THC per serving |
| Total THC | Amount per package |
| Ingredients | Full list in descending order |
| Allergens | Bold text highlighting |
| Expiration Date | Clear "Use By" date |
| Storage Info | Refrigeration needs |
| Universal Symbol | On each 10mg serving |
"The No. 1 goal here: It’s about public safety, it’s about public health, and, above all, it’s sensitive to the risk this poses to children." – Jim Burack, Director of the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Marijuana Enforcement Division
The 2024 rules focus on keeping products away from kids:
- No more "candy" on packaging
- Products can’t look like kids’ treats
- Each serving needs its own wrapper
- Every serving must show the black THC symbol
The numbers tell the story: Children’s Hospital Colorado saw a jump from 8 cases over 8 years (2005-2013) to 9 cases in just 6 months of 2016. That’s why these rules matter.
Health and Safety Labels
Health Warnings
Here’s what you need to know about cannabis warning labels:
| Required Warning Elements | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Universal Symbol | "! THC" in red, minimum ½" x ½" |
| Main Warning Text | "Contains Marijuana. KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN" in red |
| Font Size | Minimum 1/16th inch |
| Language | English only |
| Visibility | Must be clear, unobstructed |
Starting January 1, 2024, you’ll need these three things on ALL cannabis products:
- Use-by date
- Storage conditions
- Product-specific warnings
"The snacks already pack a financial punch: they make up 45 percent of the state’s cannabis market." – Colorado Department of Revenue, 2024 Report
Safety Information
Let’s break down the safety requirements:
| Safety Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Storage Instructions | Temperature, humidity needs |
| Child-Resistant Certification | Must keep proof on file |
| Use-By Dating | 9-month default without testing |
| Product Handling | Proper storage guidelines |
| Exit Packaging | Non-transparent, child-resistant |
For 2024, here’s what’s changed:
- You CAN sell products after their use-by date (just tell customers)
- Flower and pre-rolls now follow these rules
- Each product type needs its own storage rules
- Labels MUST be non-transparent
Your Labels Need To:
- Show ALL text clearly
- Keep information unblocked
- Skip health benefit claims
- Avoid confusing symbols
- Tell the truth (no misleading stuff)
Bottom line: These rules have ONE main goal – keeping cannabis products away from kids. Your labels need to be crystal clear, straight to the point, and easy to read.
Packaging Rules
Child-Safe Packaging
Cannabis products in Colorado need packaging that kids can’t open. Here’s what the packaging must do:
| Testing Requirement | Minimum Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| Children under 5 can’t open within 5 mins | 85% |
| Children still can’t open after demo | 80% |
| Adults can open/close within 5 mins | 90% |
For 2024, your packaging MUST:
- Show clear signs if someone opened it
- Use materials you can’t see through
- Wrap each 10mg THC serving separately
- Have two layers for bulk products
- Use dark, child-resistant exit bags
Where to Put Labels
| Label Location | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Front of Package | Universal THC symbol (½" x ½" minimum) |
| Main Panel | Product name, net weight, batch number |
| Secondary Panel | Warnings, ingredients, testing info |
| Exit Package | Child-resistant statement |
Starting October 1, 2024, you need to:
- Put the new THC symbol on the front
- Make text at least 1/16 inch big
- Write everything in English
- Keep labels clear and visible
- Use multiple labels if needed (but keep info visible)
"Our priority is protecting the public health and safety of all Coloradans." – Barbara Brohl, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Revenue
What’s New for 2024:
- Add use-by dates
- List how to store products
- Skip "candy" words (unless it’s your business name)
- Follow new symbol rules
- Make sure people can see all required info
For bulk products (like powders):
- Use containers that hold one serving
- Make each container child-resistant
- Put all label info on each unit
- Show batch numbers
- Include testing details
Required Records
Cannabis businesses need to track their labeling and testing records. Here’s what you need to know:
Record Keeping
You’ll need to keep these records at your business for 6 months:
| Record Type | Details Required |
|---|---|
| Label Documentation | – License numbers for facilities – Batch numbers – Net contents statements – Universal symbol placement – Sale dates and patient numbers (medical) |
| Compliance Proof | – Child-resistance certificates – Ingredient lists with allergens – Warning statement copies – Internal security controls |
| System Records | – Monthly Metrc reports (due by 15th) – Inventory tracking data – Sales transaction logs – Package movement history |
A few basic rules:
- Keep 6 months of records on-site
- Store older records anywhere you want
- Get records to officials within 3 days when asked
- Digital storage? That works too
Lab Test Records
Every product batch needs these test records:
| Test Type | Required Documentation |
|---|---|
| Microbial Testing | – E. coli results – Salmonella results – Aspergillus results – Total yeast/mold counts |
| Product Photos | – Digital images of each test batch – Must provide copies within 7 days if asked |
| Quality Control | – Standard operating procedures – Chain of custody records – Proficiency testing results |
Here are the testing limits you need to hit:
| Test Parameter | Limit | Products Tested |
|---|---|---|
| E. coli | None in 1g | Flower, edibles, pre-rolls |
| Salmonella | None in 1g | All cannabis products |
| Total Yeast/Mold | <10,000 CFU/g | All cannabis products |
| Aerobic Count | <100 CFU/g | Nasal/vaginal products |
You’ll need to:
- Save ALL test results that show product safety
- Keep analytical data for each batch
- Track testing staff records
- Document your quality control steps
"The Division may require that a Test Batch be submitted to a specific Regulated Marijuana Testing Facility for testing to verify compliance, perform investigations, compile data, or address a public health and safety concern." – Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division
Here’s the bottom line: Bad record-keeping = fines or license problems. Set up a simple system to find and share your documents fast.
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Special Cases
Medical Cannabis Labels
Here’s what you need on medical cannabis labels:
| Required Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical Statement | "Contains Marijuana, For Medical Use Only. Keep out of reach of children" |
| Patient Info | Patient registry number and purchase date |
| THC Limits | Maximum THC content per package |
| Testing Details | Lab name and test date |
| Storage Info | Temperature and light exposure rules |
| Use-By Date | Within 9 months of packaging |
Starting January 2024, medical labels must also show:
- Storage conditions
- Use-by dates (based on shelf-stability tests)
- Warnings about buying products past their use-by date
Bulk Product Labels
Bulk cannabis needs these label elements:
| Label Component | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Batch Tracking | Unique ID number (UIN) |
| Product Info | Strain name, type |
| Content Details | THC/CBD % or mg |
| Test Results | Full lab testing info |
| Warning Text | 1/6 inch minimum size |
| Storage Rules | Temperature and handling |
For bulk sales after January 1, 2024:
- Every product needs a use-by date
- Stores must tell customers about expired products
- Storage conditions on all packages
- Lab tests stay with bulk items
"If you qualify for MED, stop wasting your money." – Medical Marijuana Doctors
2024 Changes:
- Use-by dates for ALL products
- Shelf-stability tests set expiration dates
- 9-month limit without testing
- MED can pull unsafe products faster
Rule Updates
2024 Rules
Here’s what’s changing in Colorado’s marijuana rules on January 1, 2024:
| Rule Category | New Requirements |
|---|---|
| Use-By Dates | Products need dates if within 9 months of packaging |
| Storage Info | Must list temperature and handling details |
| Point of Sale | Clear pregnancy warnings at purchase points |
| Concentrate Sales | MED education info with receipt/package |
| Lab Testing | Optional tests can extend use-by dates |
More changes hit on August 7, 2024:
- Licenses last 2 years (new and renewals)
- Change your space without MED approval until renewal
- New concentrate education rules kick in
"This week marks the 10-year anniversary of legal recreational sales in Colorado, which was the first in the nation. As I look back, we got a lot of things right and a few things wrong." – Truman Bradley, Executive Director of the Marijuana Industry Group
When Rules Take Effect
| Date | Changes |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2024 | • Use-by dates on products • Storage info on labels • OK to pay online |
| August 7, 2024 | • 2-year license periods • Updated space rules • New concentrate warnings |
| January 2025 | Non-emergency parts of SB 24-076 start |
| January 1, 2027 | RFID tags become optional |
What businesses need to know:
- You can sell products past their use-by date (just tell customers)
- MED gets more power to pull unsafe products
- Hospitality businesses can now sell:
- 1 ounce of flower
- 8 grams of concentrate
- 100mg of retail marijuana products
"The Division intends to monitor data regarding regulated marijuana use-by dates following implementation of these rules, and will implement any necessary changes in the future." – Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division
Watch out: Product recalls jumped from 11 in 2022 to 18 in 2023 (mostly mold and testing problems). These new rules should help track product safety better.
Common Problems
Here’s what trips up cannabis businesses when it comes to labels in Colorado:
| Violation Type | Common Mistakes | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Product Info | Missing "cannabis-infused" text above product name | Add required text above product name (e.g. "Cannabis-Infused Chocolate-Chip Cookie") |
| Geographic Claims | Using location names for cannabis not grown there | Remove geographic references unless verified |
| Storage Details | Incorrect temperature/handling info | Include proper storage conditions as per 2024 rules |
| Use-By Dates | Missing or incorrect dates | Add dates within 9 months of packaging |
| Health Warnings | Incomplete warning text | Use exact required warning language |
Want to see why this matters? In 2023, one medical marijuana company got hit with a $150,000 fine. Their mistake? Five violations, including messed up labels and tracking for edibles at a public event.
How to Get Labels Right
Here’s what works:
1. Double-Check Everything
Get two sets of eyes on each label before printing. Use MED’s checklists and keep records of who approved what.
2. Stay on Top of Dates
Set up a system to track:
- When products are packaged
- When they expire
- Any lab tests that might change these dates
3. Watch Your Words
Don’t say:
- "Organic" (unless certified)
- Anything about health benefits
- Things that might attract kids
"The Division intends to monitor data regarding regulated marijuana use-by dates following implementation of these rules, and will implement any necessary changes in the future." – Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division
The Numbers Tell the Story:
- 22 businesses got caught with bad records/METRC issues (2015)
- 18 got busted for poor camera coverage
- Product recalls jumped from 11 to 18 between 2022-2023
If this feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many businesses work with label experts to get it right. Companies like ProGrowth can help make sure your packaging follows Colorado’s rules.
Help and Resources
Here’s where to get help with your Colorado cannabis labels:
Expert Help
These companies can help you follow Colorado’s label rules:
| Service Provider | What They Offer | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|
| Baker Law Group | Legal help with packaging and labels | Contact for consultation |
| Colorado Compliance Consultants | MED training, staff education, audits | On-demand training |
| MJ Freeway | Setup help, inspections, compliance reports | 30+ years experience |
Label Design Help
Need labels printed? These companies can help:
| Company | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| DuraFast Label | Digital label printing setup | Printers, labels, inks, software |
| CannaPlanners | Package design | Price options, finish types |
| Primeflex | Label design | Legal + visual design |
Your printer MUST handle:
- 1/6th inch minimum text size
- English text only
- Clear, unblocked text
- Child-resistant packaging
ProGrowth Label Services
Here’s what ProGrowth does:
| Service | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Label Design | State-compliant designs |
| Brand Support | Logo setup, brand rules |
| Print Solutions | Materials, sizes |
| Compliance Check | Rule check before printing |
"Don’t risk your cannabis business. Talk to Baker Law Group for solid legal advice about your labels." – Baker Law Group
Before You Pick a Label Service:
- Compare prices from different companies
- Look at their label samples
- Make sure they know the 2024 rules
- Check proofs before the final print run
Summary
Here’s a breakdown of Colorado’s 2024 cannabis label requirements:
| Basic Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| Must-Have Elements | – THC symbol with ! – Text size: 1/16 inch min – English only |
| Safety Warnings | – Health risks – Age limits – Intoxication alerts – Out-of-state transport notice |
| Product Details | – License # – Batch # – Sale date – Store info – THC levels |
| Chemical Details | – Pesticide list – Solvent info – Chemical additives |
2024 Updates:
| What’s New | When It Starts |
|---|---|
| "Use by" dates | 9-month window after packaging |
| Online payments | Started Jan 8, 2024 |
| New package rules | Starts Aug 6, 2024 |
Edibles Rules:
| What’s Required | What to Know |
|---|---|
| THC per Serving | 10mg max |
| Label Must Show | – What’s in it – When it expires – How to store |
| Package Type | One serving only |
"This week marks the 10-year anniversary of legal recreational sales in Colorado, which was the first in the nation. As I look back, we got a lot of things right and a few things wrong." – Truman Bradley, Marijuana Industry Group Executive Director
What’s Not Allowed:
- No "candy" on labels
- No health benefit claims
- No kid-friendly designs
- No false info
Package Must Be:
| Feature | Rule |
|---|---|
| Kid-Safe | Yes |
| See-Through | No |
| Closure | Must close again |
| Material | Glass/plastic/metal OK |
The Marijuana Division can now:
- Stop unsafe product sales
- Get rid of risky products
- Make new safety rules
Hospitality business limits:
- Flower: 1 ounce
- Concentrate: 8 grams
- Retail products: 100mg
FAQs
What are the new laws for cannabis in Colorado 2024?
Colorado just rolled out fresh label requirements for cannabis products. Here’s what changed on January 1, 2024:
| Rule Change | What It Means | When It Starts |
|---|---|---|
| Use-by Date | Products expire 9 months after packaging | Jan 1, 2024 |
| Storage Labels | Must show how to store products | Jan 1, 2024 |
| Testing Options | Companies can test for longer shelf life | Jan 1, 2024 |
The rules are pretty simple: Every product needs a use-by date and storage instructions. Companies can sell products after the use-by date – they just need to tell customers about it.
Here’s what the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) says:
"If companies skip shelf-stability testing, they’ll need to use the 9-month expiration date. But they can do testing to set different dates."
Truman Bradley from the Marijuana Industry Group puts it in perspective:
"We’re now 10 years into legal sales in Colorado – first in the nation. We’ve learned what works and what doesn’t."
For cannabis businesses, this means:
- Putting use-by dates on everything
- Adding storage info
- Being upfront about older products
- Keeping test records (if they do testing)
Bottom line: These changes help buyers know when their products are fresh and how to keep them that way.
