Navigating Michigan Marijuana Packaging Compliance: What You Need to Know in 2025

Michigan Marijuana Packaging Compliance

As the market grows, Michigan marijuana packaging compliance becomes more and more important. Every cannabis product must follow the state’s rules to stay legal and keep customers safe. Failure to follow these rules can lead to fines, product recalls, or even license loss.

Understanding the Michigan cannabis labeling requirements and packaging rules helps avoid problems and builds trust with buyers. This guide explains what businesses must include on labels, how packages should be designed, and the steps needed to stay compliant.

Understanding the Regulatory Framework

Michigan marijuana packaging compliance is managed by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA), which replaced the Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA).

Rule 420.504 of the Michigan Administrative Code outlines the required elements for labeling and packaging standards. In short, every product sold must ensure the following to stay compliant:

  • Expiration or use-by date
  • License information
  • No child appeal
  • Product identification
  • Tamper-evident
  • Tracking label
  • Universal symbol
  • Warning statements

This guide breaks down each requirement so you can make sure your packaging fully meets the Great Lake State’s standards.

General Packaging Requirements

Cannabis products in Michigan must follow strict packaging rules. These help ensure product safety, consumer protection, and full compliance. Key requirements include the following:

Child-Resistant and Tamper-Evident Packaging

  • Child-resistant packaging for marijuana products in Michigan must comply with the Federal Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA). This ensures that the packaging is difficult for children to open but accessible to adults.
  • Tamper-evident closures (i.e. seals or breakable caps) are required to indicate if a product has been opened.

Packaging Design Restrictions

  • Packaging must not feature designs, shapes, or branding that could appeal to minors. This includes the use of cartoons, candy-like shapes, or bright, playful branding.
  • Edible cannabis products cannot resemble commercial food products, especially those marketed to children. For example, using the word “candy” or designing products to resemble popular candies is prohibited.

Packaging Material Requirements

  • Packaging must be opaque to prevent children from viewing the contents. Furthermore, materials should be durable and resealable for multi-dose products to maintain product integrity and prevent accidental ingestion.
General Packaging Requirements

Labeling Requirements

Every cannabis product sold in Michigan must include a label with the following information:

  • License Information – The name and license number of the licensee must be clearly displayed on the label.
  • Unique Identification – A unique identification number for the package or harvest batch, which helps with traceability.
  • Harvest Date – The date the cannabis product was harvested must be clearly visible.
  • Potency Information – To stay compliant with THC and CBD content labeling laws in Michigan, packages must show the milligrams (mg) and percentage (%) of both cannabinoids.
  • Activation Time – The time it takes for the product to take effect must be clearly displayed using text or symbols.
  • Testing Information – The name of the testing facility and the date of the compliance testing must be included.
  • Ingredient List – For edibles or infused products, a full list of ingredients must be displayed.
  • Net Weight – The net weight must be listed in both U.S. customary and metric units.

Universal Symbol and Warning Statements

Furthermore, all packaging must include the following mandatory warnings:

  • All packaging must follow the Michigan marijuana universal symbol guidelines, which clearly display that the product contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This can be downloaded from the CRA’s official website.
Michigan Cannabis Universal Warning Symbol
  • Labels must also include specific warning statements, such as:
    • “It’s illegal to drive a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana.”
    • “National Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.”
    • For products exceeding THC limits: “For use by registered qualifying patients only. Keep out of reach of children.”
    • For other products: “For use by individuals 21 years of age or older or registered qualifying patients. Keep out of reach of children.”
    • A warning about potential risks to pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Special Rules for Edible Products in Michigan

Michigan’s cannabis regulations for edibles are stricter to ensure these products don’t appeal to minors. Edible cannabis products must not resemble:

  • Candy or commercially sold food products
  • Shapes of humans, animals, or fruit

This rule is in place to avoid confusion and to prevent edible cannabis products from looking like popular food items targeted to children.

Additionally, edibles must meet the following packaging standards:

  • Opaque, Resealable Packaging – The packaging for edible products must be opaque and resealable. This prevents accidental consumption and maintains product integrity, especially for multi-dose items.
  • Nutrition Labels – If a product makes any health-related claims, it must feature proper nutrition labels that follow FDA guidelines. This includes calories, serving size, and ingredients.
  • Allergen Information – This includes warnings of common allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten to ensure consumer safety.

How to Fix Non-Compliant Packaging

Failing to meet Michigan marijuana packaging compliance rules can lead to serious penalties. These include product recalls, fines, or even license suspension. To avoid these outcomes, businesses must address any packaging violations.

The most common packaging violations include the following:

  • Using bright or appealing graphics that may attract minors.
  • Omitting the universal symbol required on all cannabis products.
  • Incorrect THC potency labeling, including missing or inaccurate measurements.

If your product packaging violates state regulations, you can fix the issue in the following ways:

  • Repackage the Product – Transfer the product into a container that meets all compliance standards. This includes using child-resistant packaging and the proper labels.
  • Apply Opaque Stickers – Use opaque stickers to cover non-compliant images or text. This is a quick way to hide features that don’t meet design standards, such as bright colors or cartoon-like graphics.
  • Voluntarily Destroy the Product – If the packaging cannot be fixed, licensees may choose to dispose of the affected inventory according to CRA guidelines.

Not sure whether or not your packaging meets the Great Lake State’s standards? We invite you to use our Michigan cannabis packaging compliance checklist:

Michigan Cannabis Packaging Compliance Checklist

Final Word

Complying with Michigan marijuana packaging compliance is more than meeting legal requirements. It helps protect public safety and builds trust with your customers. From child-resistant packaging to accurate, easy-to-read labels, every detail counts.

Before releasing any product, review your packaging using a Michigan cannabis packaging compliance checklist. If you find you’re not meeting specific requirements and are unsure how to resolve this, Custom 420 Supply is here to help!

We specialize in manufacturing wholesale state-compliant cannabis packaging, ensuring your product meets all of Michigan’s label requirements. Want to learn more? We invite you to reach out through our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Michigan regulate cannabis packaging materials?

Packaging materials must be child-resistant, tamper-evident, and opaque. They must be sturdy enough to prevent damage or contamination and compliant with PPPA standards.

Are there any marketing restrictions on Michigan marijuana packaging?

Yes. Packages cannot feature cartoons, bright colors, or any branding that may appeal to children. Products must not imitate commercial non-cannabis products (i.e. candy or snack brands).

What are the font size and readability requirements for Michigan cannabis packaging labels?

Labels must be printed in English using a font size and style that’s easily legible. While no exact point size is specified, all required info must be “clear and conspicuous” to the average adult.