You’ve probably seen hemp products everywhere—in gummies, drinks, and even candy bars. But just because they’re popular doesn’t mean they’re completely safe. Some hemp products that include synthetic Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC. can have a lot of THC and even harmful chemicals left over from how they’re made. And since there aren’t clear rules for labeling or testing these products, you might be getting more than you bargained for. Let’s break down the risks so you can make smarter choices and avoid any bad surprises.
Hemp Isn’t Always Safe
Not all hemp products are the same. Some, like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC, are semi-synthetic cannabinoids. That means they’re made by chemically altering natural compounds from hemp. Sounds fancy, right? The problem is, scientists don’t know much about how these chemicals affect your body.
What makes it worse is that these products don’t have to follow strict safety rules. They’re often sold without proper testing or clear labels. This means you could end up with a product that’s way stronger than you expected or that contains harmful chemicals from the manufacturing process. To make it even trickier, some of these products look like regular snacks or drinks, making it easy to mix them up.
“Hemp is often sold without proper testing or clear labels.”
How to Make Safer Choices
Spotting Unsafe Products
So, how can you tell if a hemp product might be risky? Start by looking at the packaging. Some products are designed to look like regular candy or soda, and they might not make it clear that they contain THC. If there’s no information about THC levels or the product seems suspiciously cheap, steer clear. Avoid buying from sketchy places like gas stations or random websites.
Playing It Safe
If you’re trying hemp products, take it slow. Start with a small amount, especially if you’re using edibles. They take longer to kick in, and it’s easy to overdo it while you’re waiting to feel the effects. Always check the label for THC levels, but remember — not all labels are reliable. Regulated products are tested after manufacturing and can only be found in dispensaries. Always question hemp products sold anywhere but in dispensaries — many aren’t tested or regulated, so they could be unsafe or even harmful.
Most importantly, pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you notice anything weird, like fast heartbeats, extreme anxiety, or trouble breathing, get help right away. Your safety is more important than trying to “wait it out.”
Understand the Risks of High-Potency Products
One major issue with hemp products is how potent they can be. Unlike regular cannabis, which has limits on THC levels, hemp products often don’t. Some can have thousands of milligrams of THC in a single package. That’s a huge difference compared to legal cannabis, which is usually capped at 10 milligrams per serving. High doses of THC can cause intense side effects like anxiety, confusion, paranoia, or even hallucinations.
In fact, the FDA has warned about Delta-8 THC, highlighting its lack of safety testing and the rise in poison control calls. Between January 2021 and February 2022, there were over 2,300 reports of people getting sick from Delta-8. That’s serious stuff.
Hemp products might seem harmless, but they’re not always what they appear to be. By understanding the risks and taking steps to protect yourself, you can make safer, smarter choices. Not all hemp products are bad, but it’s up to you to stay informed and watch out for your health. Now that you’re in the know, you’ve got the tools to navigate hemp products responsibly—if you choose to use them at all.