Oregon’s Ban on Synthetic Cannabinoids Divides the Cannabis Industry

As of 1st July 2022, it will be illegal to sell all forms of synthetic cannabinoids (including delta 8) in Oregon. Previously, synthetic cannabinoids have been sold at grocery and food supplement stores, as well as other unregulated outlets. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission has now declared synthetic cannabis illegal. This may set a precedent for other states that are sitting on the fence, unsure of how to handle synthetic cannabinoids that are now flooding the market.

Delta 8 rose in popularity in mid-2020 as users discovered a way to get “high on hemp” which is federally legal. Some users also prefer the Delta 8 high to the Delta 9 (THC) because it is more “mellow and relaxing,” as they claim.

In comparison, synthetics are cheaper to produce compared to natural cannabinoids. However, some industry experts appear to concur with the FDA’s concerns regarding D8 and other synthetic cannabinoids. Most synthetic cannabinoids are contaminated and pose a substantial threat to the health and safety of consumers. The FDA reports that there have been 100 plus D8-related admissions. This included children who've been admitted to the ICU with D8- related injuries.

However, some industry experts feel that the OLCC is “overreaching its regulatory role,” especially considering how liberal the body is regarding delta -9.

Both delta 8 and delta 9 are psychoactive cannabinoids. Unlike delta 9 THC, delta 8 is found in very small quantities in cannabis. However, delta 8 can be synthetically manufactured from hemp-derived CBD and most of the delta-8 in the market is synthetic.

Delta 8 is not the only synthetic cannabinoid in the spotlight. However, the OLCC has exempted synthetic CBN from the ban. Those wishing to produce and sell synthetic cannabinoids can make a request to the FDA for approval. Those who will have gotten this approval will be able to sell synthetic cannabinoids from 1st July 2023, but the market will be regulated in the same way that adult-use cannabis is regulated.