When it comes to cannabis packaging, the High Tek Cannabis Weigher is a game changer.

To get precise results every time, you need the right equipment. That includes scales.

According to an analysis released by Marijuana Business Daily in their annual “Marijuana Business Factbook” (reported on by the Motley Crew), marijuana sales totaled 13 billion in 2019. In 2024, they estimate that total sales will triple, reaching 37 billion.

And, according to another Marijuana Business Daily headline, cannabis sales hit a high of $348 million this July 2020.

With cannabis sales expected to increase in upcoming years, efficient, adequate equipment for dispensaries is a wise investment.

With cannabis sales on the rise, cannabis packaging is sure to become a more prevalent and relevant topic now and well into the future.

Why are scales important to cannabis packaging?

Scales are important in cannabis packaging because they ensure a person essentially gets what they are paying for or purchasing. While prices may vary based on factors such as potency, it is important that whatever price is agreed upon coincides with the correct amount of cannabis.

Having an accurate, consistent scale not only protects a consumer from possibly overpaying for a lesser amount of cannabis than they are owed, but it can also protect a dispensary in the event that a consumer(s) is leaving with more than intended.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) states the following: 

“Before any new type of weighing or measuring device can be sold or used for commercial purposes in California, it must be evaluated and approved by the Department of Food and Agriculture, Division of Measurement Standards (DMS).”

Things to consider for cannabis packaging

Packing is important

Cannabis packaging is important for two reasons, it allows individuals to know exactly what they have in their possession, and it also serves as a place for safety reminders.

 

The material used for cannabis packaging/childproofing 

Remember, cannabis packaging should be child-resistant. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) states the following:

  • “State law requires all cannabis and cannabis products to be in child-resistant packaging (CRP). CRP is packaging that is designed to be difficult for children under five years of age to open.” 

CDPH notes the following type of cannabis packaging to be childproof:

“Plastic packaging that is at least 4 mils thick and heat-sealed without an easy-open tab, dimple, corner, or flap (for packages containing only a single serving).”

From scales to labels, and the actual material of the
packaging, here are some things to consider when it comes to cannabis packaging.

Measuring to one-hundredth of a gram (.01)

As heavily stressed, accuracy is key when it comes to cannabis packaging. This means getting measurements down to something that is as exact as possible.

For example, many people round an ounce to 28 grams. However, the actual measurement for an ounce in grams is considered to be 28.3495. While some dispensaries may use the standard measurement of 28 grams for the ounce, others may choose to use the more accurate measurement of the one-hundredth gram.

In short, the right scale allows a dispensary to be as accurate as possible while following state regulations and guidelines related to the packaging and the subsequent sale of cannabis.

Note: High Tek USA provides a range of packaging and weighing equipment, as well as services for the Ishida Scale. To know more, visit our web page here.

Label placement

According to CDPH, “Unless 100% of cannabis in the product is grown in the county, the name of a California county cannot be included on the label.”

False or misleading claims are also a big no-no when it comes to cannabis packaging label requirements. In addition, if your cannabis packaging has more than one layer to the label, you are required to do the following, according to CDPH: “include basic labeling on the inner container that holds the cannabis product.”