Cannabis Packaging: The FAQ Guide in 2024

1.Cannabis Packaging: What Is It?

Cannabis packaging is the process in which cannabis, usually in powdered form, is fill and seal inside the containers such as pouches, jars for their safe handling, transportation, delivery, and distribution.

The packaging of cannabis not only informs users about cannabis but upholds its structural integrity, quality, and also provides protection against harsh elements.

It is important to mention that packaging is imperative in selling the cannabis legally in market.

2.Cannabis Packaging History

Here is a brief history lesson about cannabis packaging for you.

Beginning of Cannabis Packaging

Cannabis or marijuana was sold legally in USA around mid 1800 by Park Davis & Company and S.B. Penick & Company (Pfizer and Siegfried Ltd). They sold cannabis in airtight opaque containers.

Downfall of Cannabis Packaging

As everything faces the downfall, cannabis packaging was no exception to rule.

• During 1937, possession or supply of cannabis was made illegal; however, it could be used for medical or industrial purposes.
• Nevertheless, in 1970, cannabis products were considered as criminal drug thus cannabis packaging went underground. In those days, cheap, resealable baggies were used for packaging cannabis.

Maturing Market in 2020s

In 2020s, plastic pouches were emerged as fancied choice for packaging cannabis. Sophisticated, classy, premium cannabis packaging is in-style and is well-received by youth.

3.Cannabis Packaging Options to Get Your Products into the Hands of Customers

Manufacturers use innovative packaging styles for packing cannabis in order to create pleasant experience for their buyers. Cannabis is packed into variety of packaging format so customers can select any package based on their preference and convenience.

Some cannabis packaging styles are:

Stand-up Pouch

This packaging style has gained quite traction over the recent year. Every product that you name is packaged in these flexible pouches. They have unique design with somewhat oval base and sharp tips. They are placed upright in retail shelves so are successful in capturing consumer attraction.

Sachet

For small scale retail distribution sachet is the best choice because it packs small amount of cannabis. It is small, mostly square in shape, and is sealed from 3 or 4 sides. Because of less sealing area, 3 sides sachet have more space for printing.

Stick Pack

These are easy to carry packages which are longer in length and shorter in width. Generally used for single use purposes. They have tear-easy seal for maximum convenience of users.

Jars

These jars are made up glass or plastic and are used for packaging cannabis powders. Customer prefers bottle packaging style since these containers resealed and reused. They can bulk quantities of cannabis powders.

Mylar Bags

These containers are excellent in packing large quantities of cannabis and are ideal for printing. These are opaque bags in small transparent opening for viewing the packaged product. Clear window bags craft professional look.

4.Benefits of Cannabis Packaging

Cannabis packaging not only brings you monetary benefits but also protects and safeguards your product from main culprit- humidity.

Some essential benefits of cannabis packaging are:

Premium Freshness

Packaging your cannabis product increases its aging time. It provides premium freshness to cannabis powders without causing their excessive dryness. Maintaining the moisture content of cannabis is essential for product integrity and freshness.

Heightened Sensory Appeal

Cannabis has terpenes which contribute in rich aroma and flavor of these products. Terpenes lose their potency upon facing harsh temperature, oxygen, and air moisture. Packaging your cannabis powders preserve their luster which creates heightened sensory appeal.

Customizable Brand Identity

Promoting brand identity is significant advantage of cannabis packaging. Minimalist designs, creative logos, and unique fonts help you connect with customers and give you an edge on your competitor. Appealing packaging will enhance its visual aspect thus increasing impulse buying.

Regulation Compliance

For legal purposes it is necessary to package cannabis. Guidelines imposed by federal governments as well as FDA ensure the cannabis is packaged and labeled for safe medical use and other purposes. By labeling cannabis packaging as per recommended legislations brand owners gain the trust of their customers.

Messaging

By cannabis packaging you can spread products awareness. Packaging provides space for communicating your product description such as its benefits, warning, ingredients etc. to your consumers.

5.What are Different Types of Cannabis Products?

Cannabis products are available in variety of forms. Parts of marijuana like flowers, leaves, oil, etc. are used for different purposes.

Form	Packaging Type	Picture
Marijuana Weed Flowers Indicas Sativas Hybrid	Bottles Glass Jars Mylar Barrier Pouch
Pre-Joint Rolls	Plastic Vials Pop-Top Containers Tube
Powder THC CBD	Bottle Standup Pouch Jar Stick Sachet
Oils Butane Hash Oil CO2 & BHO Extract Oil THC Oil	Bottles Jars Vials Vape Tubes
Concentrates Sift or Kief Live Resin Hash Rosin Crystalline Distillates, Crystralines & Isolates Shatter Wax Honeycomb Wax Crumble Wax Badder or Budder	Silicon Jar Glass Jar
Edibles Cookies Chips Gummies Candies Brownies Chocolates Capsules	Pouch Box Bottles
Beverages Coffee Soda Tea	Bottles Cans
Tropical Lotions Ointments Skin Care Creams Balms	Tubes Tubs Jars Bottles

6.Comparing Different Types of Cannabis Packaging

There are three kinds of packaging materials for packing cannabis which are

• Rigid
• Semi-Rigid
• Flexible

Each type of packaging material has its advantages and limitations. Here is comparison between various types of your understanding

Feature	Rigid	Semi-Rigid	Flexible
Hardness	These are tough, strong, hard, and unyielding materials encompassing glass and metals.	These are hard but can be malleable and have good ductility	Flexible packaging has superior forming characteristics and is composed of bendable materials
Example	Mason jars, Glass jars, vials	Tin cans, paper tubes, thermoform plastic tubs, trays,	Plastic film, pouches, aluminum rolls, paper bags
Mechanical Protection	This provides highest mechanical protection to cannabis against rough treatment during transport and handling.	Semi-rigid packaging can be scratched after coming into contact with sharp object creating unattractive appearance.	Sharp objects and edges can puncture through packaging thus damaging product.
Breakage	This type of packaging easily shatters upon impact sometimes leading to contamination of inside product because of cracks. Moreover, glass breaks which causes leakage of product.	They are resilient and do not crack easily.	They do not shatter upon impact, so cross-contamination is not an issue.
Aesthetics	They come in various colors, shades and tints for designing elegant products.	Semi-rigid packaging has high gloss exterior thus are employed for forming lustrous packaging.	It has silky soft touch with matte finishing which aids in manufacturing attractive and sophisticated packaging..
Weight	They are much heavier than their counterparts.	These are lighter than rigid packaging hence can cut down fuel expenses while transportation.	These are much lightweight and can be easily placed over another to save space.
Printing	Rigid containers are not printed upon hence stickers or sleeve are used for labeling purposes.	It is difficult to print semi-rigid packaging so add on taps, or stickers are employed for creating catchy look which increase production expenses.	These are the best materials for printing thus there is no need for buying special labels.

7.What Are Common Cannabis Packaging Machines?

Cannabis packaging depends upon speed and precision of cannabis packaging machines. These devices pack cannabis gently to avoid its degradation and damage.

Some handy common cannabis packaging machines are penned below for your information:

Pre-made Pouch Packaging Machine

These instruments are one of the many popular machines for packaging cannabis and can pack already made bags. This cuts down utility bill and energy expenses for bag formation. They are versatile and can fill bags of various shapes and designs. Automated premade pouch machine can increase output efficiency by 50%.

Working Principle

Operator load stacks of preformed bag inside the machine bag magazine from where they are picked up by gripper one at a time and are passed to opening station. At opening unit, air is introduced inside the bag for inflation and then cannabis is filled inside them using auger fillers. Next step is sealing which is executed by sealing jaws which hermetically seal bag from top.

Stick Packing Machines

These machines are routinely employed in various industries for packaging cannabis in convenient easy-to-carry stick pack. These packs carry small quantities of cannabis used for one-serve only. The production efficiency of these equipments depends upon number of lanes-large number of lanes high speed.

Working Principle

The unwinding device assists in unwinding of film which moves across rollers to slitter assembly. Where, film is cut into many small fragments. These strip then reach forming tubes and are folded and shaped strips into stick pack. Vertical sealing bars create vertical sealing these packs. After this, filling of cannabis powder is performed by fillers and finally horizontal sealing jaws and cutters are employed for sealing and cutting edges of stick pack respectively.

Sachet Packaging Machine

3-4 sided sachets are packaged by sachet packaging machines. These are flexible, high speed machines producing numerous sachets per minute for retail distribution. Less film material is used by sachet packaging machines consequently reducing operational cost.

Working Principle

Film is put on the film rollstock which is unwound with rollers and then knives are employed for cutting film into two parts. The back part is moved inside printer while front part is folded to meet the separated part. Afterwards, film parts are carried to forming tubes where two parts are fashioned into sachets. Then auger filler is used for filling the required amount of cannabis in newly formed sachets. Sealing of top edge is performed by sealing jaw.

Vertical Form Fill and Sealing Machine

These machines are highly sought out packaging equipment due to their versatile packaging and speed. They are well suited for packaging cannabis in flexible packaging. These have versatile pouch assembly components hence form wide ranging bag styles from standup, to flat bottom, and typical pillow bags.

Working Principle

The film packaging film roll is placed on spindle assembly and is pulled off from roll via transport belt. These belts carry film to forming tube where it is folded in such manner that two outer sides overlap each other. Then hot vertical sealing bars seal the film sideways. Cannabis products are drop down in partially sealed bag using multi-head auger. After filling, horizontal seal jaws move and seal the bag from top. Cutting knife cut the two consecutive bags.

Cans/Jars Filling Machine

Automatic cannabis filling solution with capping option allows feasible working in production lines. It is composed of auger filler head and mounted conveyor belt ensure easy flow of jars/containers for filling and final sealing.

Working Principle

By feeding data using a customer PLC controller provides selection and filling concentration and machine starts operating. You just need to load the jars manually, machine itself picks them one by one. Jars are sealed and capped using vacuum pressure and sealing bars. The entire procedure is efficiently carried out via sensors.

8.Why Cannabis Packaging Design Is Important

Due consideration should be given while designing cannabis packaging since this is extremely important for variety of reasons like:

• Cannabis packaging design is a mirror of your brand identity.  Consistencies in colours, theme, and typography usually give off similar ambiance that is memorable for consumers.
• Eye catching packaging activates intense signalling in impulsivity areas of brain which increases chances of selling. Moreover, attractive cannabis packaging generates reward reactions in brain which create positive feelings associated with purchase.
• Consumers are reluctant in trying cannabis, but packaging placates and gives them surety that the product they are purchasing legal and safe
• Cannabis packaging with medical symbol and health benefits will attract the attention of patients who are consuming cannabis for reprieve from their pain.

9.What Are Common Mistakes While Designing Cannabis Packaging?

Here are some common mistakes which should be avoided when designing engaging cannabis packaging.

• Transparent and visible packaging is a big no when designing cannabis packaging as products are easily seen through packaging leading to confiscation by authorities.
• Cannabis containers should not be labelled with false or misleading information such as its benefits for safety reasons.
• Cannabis packaging must not resemble any medication packaging and cannabis label should not claim that product is for diagnosis and treatment.
• Last but not least do not package your product in flimsy, fragile, and cheap packaging material since they can tear apart easily.

10.Tips For Creating Eco-Friendly Cannabis Packaging

To build the loyalty of these customers here are some tips for creating eco-friendly cannabis packaging.

Carbon Neutral Packaging

For creating eco-friendly cannabis packaging, you must reduce carbon emission when manufacturing your cannabis packaging containers. It is essential that you must use renewable energy resources and lower the usage of petroleum-based plastics for cannabis packaging.

Right-Sized Packaging

It is the appropriate way of protection your cannabis product while simultaneously cutting down usage of needless materials. Furthermore, right-sized cannabis packaging will be a right step in lowering your fuel consumption and transport charges.

Alternative to Traditional Materials

Even if paper is a good renewable material; now days there are numerous sustainable materials for cannabis packaging available in markets. Materials like hemp, casein, cotton, sugarcane are bio-degradable and easily recycled. Switching to new cannabis packaging alternatives will lead to reduction in plastic land fill.

Mono-Materials an Innovation in Packaging

Multi-layer cannabis packaging requires way more time and effort for recycling. In recent years, brand owners have introduce single layer recycle ready bags for packing products like cannabis such as PE, PET bags. Replacing your multi-layers pouches to mono-layer ones for packaging cannabis will not only be cost-effective but also will be eco-friendly approach.

11.What Are Design Trends in Cannabis Packaging?

Packaging designs come and go but it is important to select those design trends that align and support your brand image.

Some worth mentioning design trends are:

Green Packaging

Cannabis packaging should not only be sustainable but should have eco-friendly look for appealing earth loving consumers. Light shades of natural colors like greens and blues have strong shot in attracting these shoppers.

Leafy Theme

Including leafy marijuana images on cannabis packaging is a guaranteed cliché but it easily identifiable by the customers. Today, creative cannabis logos and graphics is integrated with marijuana leaves for inspiring modern look for chic buyers.

Health Significance

Stressing health benefits on cannabis packaging is used for grabbing the attention of patients. By modifying the look of traditional medical packaging, you can create trusted solution for patients. White background with clear writing in green colors produces unique effect and is successfully incorporated by brand owners in their packaging.

Minimalist Design

Companies are embracing simple designing and the saying “less is more” cannot be truer today. Black and white colors are included in cannabis packaging for sparking interest among shoppers.

Word Play

Nowadays, stereotypes or word play on cannabis has become a clever market tactics. Tastefully done stereotypical design is catchy for both recreational and medical cannabis packaging.

12.What Are the Requirements and Guidelines For Cannabis Packaging?

There are various packaging requirements and guidelines for legal selling of cannabis products such as:

Child Proof Packaging

Cannabis packaging should be difficult to open by child. Moreover, it should not have any pull tabs for opening and should be at least 4 miles thick. Cannabis must be package inside opaque containers so children cannot see it.

Tamper-Evident Packaging

Another requirement for packaging cannabis is their anti-counterfeiting property. It ensures there is no tampering with product. Tamper evident packaging when broken hints consumers, that there is something amiss with packed cannabis.

Properly Labeled

Cannabis packaging should be properly labeled for safe distribution and consumption. Moreover, it should encompass symbol or warning for signifying that packaging contains cannabis.

Unappealing to Children and Teens

Cannabis packaging should not include mainstream imagery or graphics such as cartoons, action characters, balloons or other characters that is used specifically in minors or children branding. Moreover, cannabis packaging must not have any likeness with candy or related products.

13.How to Choose Top Supplier for Your Cannabis Packaging?

There are brand owners battling in the packaging arena. They have ready-made cannabis packaging solutions or can custom design packaging. However, as a novice cannabis business, always go for suppliers have packaging solutions compatible with your requirements.

Some simple tactics of choosing top supplier for your cannabis packaging are detailed below:

High Rated Supplier

Before selection, look for a supplier with a great many positive reviews. A good rating often means your potential supplier is trustworthy and reliable with a commendable packaging solution. It is also way of ensuring that supplier has experience in cannabis packaging.

Quality Material

Make sure that they deal in high quality materials whether plastic, paper, or aluminum etc. These materials are durable and resistant to constant wear and tear during cannabis packaging and shipment.

Tailor-Made Solutions

Always check beforehand if supplier creates custom solutions for their clients. This will be advantageous for you as suppliers create the best-fit packaging design for you which will perfectly align with your business goals.

14.What Information Should Be Included on Cannabis Packaging Label?

Packaging for any product should have basic information besides logos or labels. But, cannabis packaging has way more information such as dosing information and safety instructions than other products.

Content checklist for cannabis packaging includes:

Ingredients List and Concentration

For legal purposes, cannabis packaging should include complete ingredient list, active compounds such as terpenes and their concentration whether by weight or percentage. The ingredient should be mentioned in descending order (from heavier to lighter)

Dose Information

Dose of cannabis should be stated on its packaging so that consumer learns about safe limit of consumption.

Net Weight

Total weight of cannabis should be mentioned on front panel at the bottom in both metric (kilograms, grams) and USA System Units (ounces, pounds).

Brand Logo

This is included on cannabis packaging since customers can relate brand logo with manufacturing company. Statement of identity is also included on packaging since it is essential in informing customers of packaged cannabis product (hemp oil, cannabis powders or flowers).

Warnings

Several warning statements are mentioned on cannabis packaging as per FDA regulations such as:

• Potential health risks are associated with product consumption.
• Pregnant and lactating mothers should not consume it as it may harm foetus.
• Cannabis consumption hampers the ability to drive and operate machinery. It also leads to difficulty in focusing, impaired movement, and judgment.
• Product is for 21 years and above and must be kept away from children.
• Lastly FDA has not recommended the proposed physiological and psychosomatic effects of this product.

15.How Cannabis Packaging Helps Brands Maximize Their Marketing

Marketing and branding is essential in the success of the business. Advertising your cannabis product leads to higher chance selling. One such advertising campaign is your cannabis packaging.

Following are some strategies to package cannabis for achieving highest marketing points.

• Always use high quality, tough, and resilient packaging material with lustrous or matte finishing. This results in smart, professional and elegant looking packaging. This kind of cannabis packaging is well-received by classy and high-end consumers.
• While designing cannabis packaging, go for simple, minimalist, and low key design with vibrant colours and digital printing to generate eye-catching outcome. In this way, your product will have edge over your competitors.
• Logos, cursive fonts, and branding element on cannabis packaging aid in memory recall hence more likelihood of product success on aisles.
• Convenience is a main aspect of cannabis packaging that attracts the customers. A good packaging should be easily opened and closed thus it is necessary that your packaging is customized with re-sealable options whether zippers or locks etc.

Conclusion

With growing cannabis market, more and more businesses are entering cannabis packaging market. To stand out from competitors, brand owners create packaging cocktails with simple, minimalist designs, medical symbols, leafy images, and plain topography. Cannabis packaging is part of your advertising and if employed creatively, aids in drawing customers to retail shelf for purchase. If you want additional info regarding cannabis packaging, you can contact our customer support anytime and anywhere.