According to a study by Dalhousie University, a growing proportion of cannabis users say they prefer edibles. The demand for these weed-infused treats is high, and users seem to particularly enjoy gummies. Although edibles are generally associated with stronger effects compared to smoking, many users prefer them for other reasons. Smoking may be completely impossible for someone with a lung condition, for example. What exactly is the legal status of edibles in the Tar Heel State? What happens if you get caught with weed edibles in North Carolina?
The Legal Status of Marijuana Edibles in North Carolina is Often Unclear
Many people are confused about the legal status of cannabis edibles in North Carolina – and for good reason. These laws are not exactly clear, especially with a notable distinction between CBD and THC. “Hemp” may have legal status in the Tar Heel State, while marijuana is illegal. The difference between these two substances depends on THC levels.
Generally speaking, substances are legal as long as they have .3% THC or less. For example, you might legally acquire an edible with mostly CBD and less than .3% THC. In theory, you could not face any legal consequences for purchasing and eating this product. The main reason is simple: THC is the “psychoactive” chemical in weed. In other words, this is what gets you high. On the other hand, CBD has certain purported health benefits – but it is not a mind-altering substance in the same way.
While this might seem like a relatively straightforward system, it is all too easy to mistakenly purchase a product that has more than 0.3% THC. The average consumer lacks the necessary laboratory testing equipment to determine the exact amount of THC in a gummy. Fortunately, a North Carolina defense attorney may be able to help you argue that you never intended to buy THC products – and that you were under the impression that this was a legal CBD product. Intent is an important element when it comes to most drug crimes in North Carolina.
Another complicating factor is the fact that illegal THC products are often disguised as regular food items. This is one of the many strategies people use to circumvent marijuana laws in North Carolina, and consumers may mistakenly buy or acquire THC products that seem completely innocuous at first glance.
In October of 2024, authorities in North Carolina seized over $300,000 of THC edibles that were disguised as popular snacks – including Pringles, Planters Peanuts, and even Bud Light beer.
Contact a North Carolina Cannabis Defense Lawyer if You Were Caught With Edibles
If you are facing charges due to the alleged possession of marijuana edibles, contact an experienced cannabis defense lawyer in North Carolina at your earliest convenience. With help from Coastal South Law, you can explore various potential defense strategies. The right defense strategy could allow you to mitigate or avoid criminal consequences – so get in touch today to get started.