The Most Common CR Packaging Mistakes Cannabis Brands Make

Child-resistant (CR) packaging represents one of the most critical compliance areas for cannabis brands. Yet despite its importance, many companies continue to make costly mistakes that lead to regulatory issues, wasted resources, and frustrated customers. Understanding these common pitfalls is the first step toward developing packaging that satisfies both legal requirements and consumer needs.

Understanding CR Requirements: The Foundation of Compliance

The most fundamental mistake cannabis brands make is failing to understand what actually constitutes child-resistant packaging. According to industry standards, CR packaging must prevent 80% of children under five from opening it within a specified testing period, while ensuring 90% of adults can open it properly.

Many brands incorrectly assume that any packaging labeled "child-resistant" meets regulatory standards. However, legitimate CR packaging requires certification through specific testing protocols like the CPSC's 16 CFR 1700 or ISO 8317.

Misinterpreting Regulations Across Different Jurisdictions

Cannabis brands operating in multiple states often make the mistake of assuming CR requirements are uniform across jurisdictions. The reality is far more complex, with state-by-state variations that can significantly impact packaging decisions.

For example, some states require CR packaging for all cannabis products, while others have different requirements based on product type. Colorado requires CR packaging for all marijuana products, but the specific testing standards may differ from those in California or Oregon.

Common Regulatory Misinterpretations:

• Assuming exit bags satisfy all CR requirements
• Overlooking product-specific regulations for items like edibles or concentrates
• Failing to keep up with regulatory changes and updates
• Misunderstanding the difference between child-resistant and tamper-evident features

Sacrificing Branding for Compliance (or Vice Versa)

Another common mistake is viewing CR compliance and attractive branding as mutually exclusive goals. Many brands either opt for generic CR packaging that undermines their brand identity or prioritize aesthetics at the expense of compliance.

The reality is that these goals can coexist. As explored in this guide on balancing CR requirements with branding, innovative solutions allow brands to maintain their visual identity while meeting safety standards.

For products requiring special storage conditions, brands should consider integrating humidity control solutions like humidity control packs that preserve product freshness while maintaining child-resistant integrity of the packaging system.

Overlooking Usability for Different Consumer Groups

While focusing on child resistance, many brands overlook the "adult-friendly" aspect of CR packaging requirements. This oversight creates particular challenges for medical cannabis patients, seniors, and those with dexterity limitations.

According to research on CR packaging accessibility, packaging that's too difficult for legitimate users to open can lead to dangerous workarounds, such as transferring products to non-CR containers or leaving packages partially open.

Usability Issues Often Overlooked:

• Excessive force requirements for opening mechanisms
• Small print on opening instructions
• Mechanisms requiring fine motor skills
• Lack of clear opening indicators or instructions

Certification Mistakes That Can Lead to Recalls

Perhaps the most costly mistake cannabis brands make is failing to properly verify CR certification. This typically happens in several ways:

First, some brands accept manufacturer claims about CR compliance without requesting proper documentation. Others might receive certification that doesn't actually apply to their specific product configuration. For example, a certificate for a bottle-cap combination doesn't automatically extend to the same bottle with a different cap.

The consequences can be severe, including product recalls, regulatory penalties, and damaged consumer trust. Third-party testing verification is essential for avoiding these issues.

Prevention Strategies: How to Avoid Common CR Packaging Pitfalls

To avoid these common mistakes, cannabis brands should implement a comprehensive CR packaging strategy:

1. Conduct thorough regulatory research - Understand the specific requirements for each product type in every market you serve.
2. Verify certification legitimacy - Request and authenticate testing documentation for your exact packaging configuration.
3. Test with actual users - Conduct usability testing with your target demographic, including seniors and medical patients.
4. Consider the entire packaging system - Evaluate how different CR mechanisms affect your operations, from filling to retail display.
5. Plan for sustainability - Explore eco-friendly CR options that satisfy both environmental concerns and safety requirements.

By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, cannabis brands can develop CR packaging strategies that protect children, satisfy regulators, please consumers, and strengthen brand identity rather than compromising it.