Florida's New Hemp Rules Took Effect July 1: Here’s What You Need to Know

If you hold a hemp business license in Florida or are thinking about getting into the space, this matters. As of July 1, Florida’s new hemp regulations are in effect. That means big changes in how products are made, packaged, labeled, and sold.

We’re here to help you get ahead of it — not caught off guard.

These Rules Aren’t Optional

Florida now classifies hemp extract as food when intended for ingestion or inhalation. That means you're dealing with the same level of scrutiny as any other food manufacturer. Here's what you're expected to have in place:

• A Hemp Food Establishment permit ($650/year)

• Certified child-resistant packaging

• Fully compliant labeling with accurate cannabinoid content, serving sizes, net weights, and a QR code that links to a COA in three clicks or fewer

Marketing that targets children, even unintentionally, will land you in hot water. Bright colors, cartoon-style branding, or anything that resembles popular candy or snacks is now off-limits.

Label Requirements Are Tight

Your product label must be clean, clear, and accurate. That means:

• A warning if it’s for inhalation only: “Not Intended for Ingestion – Do Not Eat”

• No misleading health claims

• No reference to marijuana

• No unauthorized color additives — even things like turmeric, beet powder, and spirulina are banned when used as coloring agents

If the label doesn’t comply, your product could be pulled from the shelf or flagged as misbranded.

Testing and COAs Are Mandatory

Each product batch must have a full-panel Certificate of Analysis from a certified lab. It needs to confirm:

• Less than 0.3% total delta-9 THC

• No dangerous levels of residual solvents, heavy metals, or microbes

• Compliance with Florida’s detailed contaminant limits

That COA must be easily accessible via a QR code on your packaging.

Age Restrictions and Sales Rules

You may only sell to customers age 21 and up. You also can’t use vending machines, display products in a way the public can touch them without assistance, or operate under Cottage Food laws. Online or in-store, you need to verify age before completing the sale.

Penalties Are Serious

Violations can cost you up to $5,000 per offense, along with stop-sale orders, permit suspensions, and potentially even revocation. Don’t assume enforcement will be lenient — state agencies are watching closely.

Let’s Lighten Your Load

Running a hemp business in Florida just got more complicated. We know you're juggling a lot already. That’s why we’re here — to take the compliance and regulatory burden off your back, so you can focus on growing your business, not stressing over fine print.

Whether you need help getting your labels in line, updating your COAs, or just making sure you’re covered under the new rules, we’ve got your back.

Let us help you navigate this. Reach out today and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in full compliance.

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