Edibles: Start Low and Go Slow

Why edibles feel different

When you eat cannabis, the THC is processed through your digestive system and liver before it reaches your bloodstream. According to the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission, that can make the effects stronger and longer-lasting than smoking or vaping.

Timing

• Usually felt within 30 minutes to 2 hours.
• The full effect can take up to four hours, depending on things like body weight, whether you’ve eaten, and metabolism.
• The effects may last several hours or longer.

The most common mistake is taking more because “nothing is happening yet.” The first serving may simply not have kicked in.

Start low

Choose a low-dose product, and consider less than a full serving the first time. In New Jersey, one edible serving can’t contain more than 10 mg of THC, and a package can’t contain more than 100 mg. Check the label for the milligrams per serving and look for INCLUDES MULTIPLE SERVINGS. How to read the label.

Go slow

• Wait a few hours before taking more.
• Don’t mix with alcohol or other substances. Combining them increases impairment.
• Plan to stay in, and don’t drive. Arrange a ride if you’ll need one.

Store them safely

Edibles can look like regular snacks. Keep them in their original child-resistant package, clearly labeled, locked up and away from children, pets and everyday food.

If you’ve had too much

Call the New Jersey Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. If someone is unconscious or unresponsive, call 911.

Sources

• NJ-CRC: Inhaling vs Ingesting (PDF)
• NJ-CRC: Safe and responsible use (PDF)
• NJ-CRC Packaging and Labeling Guide (PDF)