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Cannabis Packaging for different types of Cannabis Labels

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LABELS FOR CANNABIS PACKAGING

When it comes to cannabis packaging, labels are more than just branding—they’re essential for compliance, durability, and consumer appeal. With the industry’s strict regulations and growing competition, selecting the right labels is essential. Here’s what you need to know to get it right.

WHY LABELS MATTER IN THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY

1. Compliance

A gavel resting on a table with a cannabis leaf nearby

Cannabis is a highly regulated industry, and every region has its own labeling requirements. Some of the key requirements include:

  • Warning labels (THC content, age restrictions, and health advisories)
  • Potency and ingredient details (CBD/THC percentages, batch numbers)
  • Child-resistant packaging compliance
  • State-specific symbols and disclaimers

Failing to comply can lead to consequences such as fines or recalls. Always check your local regulatory agency for the latest information.

2. Durability

Hand holding thermometer with high temperature on the city with glowing sun background

Cannabis products are often exposed to different environmental conditions, so label materials need to be tough enough to last. Consider:

  • Moisture-resistant for tinctures and beverages
  • Oil-resistant for concentrates and topicals
  • Heat-resistant for vape cartridges
  • Tear-resistant for long-term readability

Ask one of our label experts for their recommendations for your particular product.

3. Security Features

Cannabis stored in a jar with a Cannabis Label sealing the product

Since cannabis is a regulated product, security features can help ensure product integrity and prevent counterfeiting. Popular options include:

  • Tamper-evident seals that indicate if the package has been opened
  • Holographic stickers or QR codes for authentication
  • Child-resistant labels designed to meet safety standards

These features not only protect consumers but also enhance brand credibility (National Cannabis Industry Association, 2023).

4. Branding and Design

Rolls of Cannabis Labels featuring purple and red designs
Rolls of Cannabis Labels

While compliance is essential, your label also needs to attract buyers. A well-designed label should balance functionality with eye-catching aesthetics. Consider:

  • Custom materials and finishes (metallic, clear, matte, gloss) to elevate product appeal
  • Minimalist vs. bold designs based on your target audience
  • Eco-friendly materials for brands promoting sustainability

A strong brand identity helps your product stand out in dispensaries and retail stores.

5. Adhesion

Hands peel off the label from a long paper parcel on a light green background

Not all labels adhere well to every packaging type. Choosing the right adhesive can prevent peeling, fading, or misalignment issues. Options include:

  • Permanent adhesives for long-lasting labels
  • Removable adhesives for reusable packaging
  • Cold-resistant adhesives for refrigerated or frozen cannabis products

Testing labels on your actual packaging before mass production can help avoid costly errors.

WHAT ARE THE BEST PACKAGING CHOICES FOR CANNABIS?

Cannabis Packaging for different types of Cannabis Labels
Examples of Cannabis Packaging

The best packaging choices for cannabis depend on product type, compliance needs, and consumer preferences.

  • Glass Jars and Bottles: Ideal for premium flower, pre-rolls, and concentrates, glass offers airtight seals that preserve freshness. The smooth, non-porous surface of glass makes it perfect for applying high-quality adhesive labels.
  • Flexible Pouches: Versatile, lightweight, and cost-effective, flexible pouches are an excellent choice for packaging edibles and cannabis flower. They protect against moisture and oxygen, ensuring product quality remains intact. For dynamic information like batch details, updated labels can be seamlessly applied on top of flexible packaging.
  • Metal Tins: Often used for pre-rolls and edibles, metal tins provide durability and child-resistant features. Their smooth metal finish supports durable labels that can withstand frequent handling while clearly displaying required regulatory details.
  • Plastic Containers – Common for gummies and vape cartridges. The design supports high-resolution label printing, ensuring that all mandatory information is legible and compliant.

Each packaging choice not only serves the practical needs of cannabis products but also ensures that compliance labels are an integral, clear, and attractive part of the overall design.

Choose The Right Cannabis Packaging Company To Help

Choosing the right labels for cannabis packaging is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about compliance, durability, and branding. Working with an experienced cannabis label manufacturer like Whitlam Group can help ensure that your packaging meets legal standards while still appealing to consumers.

Have any questions about cannabis labeling? Give us a call at (800) 755-2235.