New York State Bans Caffeine-Infused Cannabis Products
In a move that has left many in the cannabis industry surprised, the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has banned the sale of cannabis products infused with caffeine. The decision comes after an inspection of the Hudson Cannabis facility, which produces the products, revealed that the ingredients used did not meet the state’s regulations.
The products in question, sold under the brand name 1906, are marketed as energy stimulants and brain power supplements. They contain a combination of THC, CBD, and caffeine, which has become a popular pick-me-up for fitness enthusiasts and office professionals. However, the OCM has deemed the products to be a risk to public health and safety, citing concerns over the potential for increased potency, toxicity, or addictive potential.
The company marketing the 1906 products, Nuka Enterprises, is appealing the decision, arguing that the OCM’s rules are unclear and arbitrary. The company’s lawyer, Matthew Schweber, points out that the OCM allows the sale of Harney Brothers Cannabis-Infused Nitro Coffee, which contains 225mg of caffeine per serving, but prohibits the sale of 1906 products, which contain a much lower amount of caffeine.
The ban has left many in the cannabis industry scratching their heads. Osbert Orduna, CEO of The Cannabis Place in Queens, said, “I’m very surprised. It’s completely unexpected. The 1906 products are very popular with all age groups. It’s a big seller. We have professionals who use 1906 as well as customers who exercise, go to the gym. There’s an ease of use. People are comfortable taking a tablet.”
The medical community is also divided on the issue, with some researchers suggesting that consuming cannabis and caffeine together could produce different effects on a user than taking them separately. A 2012 study found that a combination of caffeine and low-dose cannabis affected working memory in rats, but more research is needed to fully understand the effects of combining the two substances.
The ban has left many wondering what the future holds for cannabis-infused products in New York State. As the industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the OCM will approach the issue of combining cannabis and caffeine in the future.
