Dose vs. Serving: The Terminology Debate in Cannabis Beverages

At the recent Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA) external stakeholder meeting, a fascinating topic of discussion emerged: Should cannabis beverages refer to their cannabis content as a "dose" or a "serving"? I thought I'd take an initial look at why this subject can be so divisive in the hopes of creating healthy debate.

A Tale of Two Terms - The Psychological Impact

Imagine walking into your local dispensary, browsing through the colorful array of cannabis beverages. As a consumer, you’re faced with a choice: do you want a “dose” of cannabis or a “serving”? These two words, while seemingly similar, carry different connotations that can significantly impact consumer perception, safety, and regulatory compliance.

The Precision of a "Dose"

The term "dose" brings to mind the precision of the medical field. It suggests a carefully measured amount, evoking images of pharmacists ensuring every pill contains the exact milligrams needed. For cannabis beverages, using "dose" emphasizes the importance of controlled intake, especially crucial for new users or those using cannabis for medical purposes.

However, this precision can be a double-edged sword. While "dose" underscores the medical and therapeutic benefits, it can also intimidate recreational users. After all, who wants to feel like they’re taking medicine when they’re simply trying to enjoy a refreshing drink and buzz?

The Familiarity of a "Serving"

On the other hand, "serving" is a term we encounter daily. From food labels to restaurant menus, it’s a familiar concept. Using "serving" for cannabis beverages makes them feel more accessible, inviting, and part of a regular social experience. It aligns with how we consume food and beverages, making it an easy concept to grasp.

Yet, this familiarity can be misleading. The delayed onset of cannabis effects, ranging from 15/30 minutes to two hours, poses a risk. Consumers might mistake the subtlety for weakness and consume more, leading to overconsumption. The casual nature of "serving" might not adequately convey the need for patience and caution.

Consistency is Key

Regardless of the term used, consistency in product potency is non-negotiable. Every "dose" or "serving" must contain the same amount of THC and other cannabinoids to ensure safety and compliance. Clear, standardized labeling is essential to maintain trust and reliability in the market.

Health and Safety First

The health and safety of consumers are paramount. The term "dose" might better convey the need to wait and feel the effects before considering more consumption. This is especially important given the lag between consumption and onset of effects. In medical markets, where precision and control are critical, "dose" seems to fit naturally.

Market Positioning Matters

For products in recreational markets, "serving" aligns with the experience of enjoying a beverage with friends. It’s approachable and familiar. However, even in these markets, robust consumer education is necessary. Clear information at the point-of-sale can help mitigate risks associated with overconsumption.

Learning from Others

Currently, many products list cannabinoid levels without specifying "dose" or "serving." This can be confusing. By standardizing terminology, we can help set industry-wide best practices. Looking at how other jurisdictions handle this, doing a GAP analysis, and reviewing existing best practices, can provide valuable insights and help create a cohesive framework. Here again, at least in the US, every state is different.

Conclusion: A Dual Approach

Perhaps the best path forward is a dual approach:

• For medical products, use "dose" to highlight precision and control.
• For recreational products, use "serving" but complement it with strong educational efforts to ensure safe consumption.

But what do we do with products that are for both medical and adult use?

Call to Action

Let’s drive this conversation forward. Developing standardized labeling guidelines that clearly define "dose" and "serving" can enhance consumer safety and regulatory compliance. Enhanced consumer education efforts are vital, both at the point-of-sale and through public awareness campaigns.

Let's work towards a consensus that benefits both the industry and consumers. How do you think we should label cannabis beverages? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Let's shape the future of cannabis beverage labeling together.

#CannabisIndustry #Regulation #CannabisBeverages #ConsumerSafety #CANNRA

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