Consumable hemp processors are regulated by the Louisiana Department of Health, and are currently undergoing a rules revision to incorporate ACT No. 336 so for the most update information and any other questions or concerns, please visit the Louisiana Department of Health website. Processors should be aware of an important rule change made by ACT No. 336 regarding the total THC concentration. The total THC (including delta variants) concentration must remain under 1% THC by dry weight, while maintaining the delta-9-THC concentration limit of 0.3% by dry weight.
Processors must adhere to the Rules for Consumable Hemp Products set forth by LDH. Processors must have their products laboratory tested at an approved lab, to obtain a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that verifies the potency (< 1% total THC and <0.3% delta-9 THC) and safety of the product for contamination by pathogens and other toxic substances. These regulations also detail the labeling requirements, which must include a variety of information, while also preventing making medical claims.
Processors must follow the Basic Requirements for a Food Manufacturer for processing facilities and the Basic Requirements for a Food Storage Warehouse for storage and distribution of consumable hemp products. They are required to adhere to the Louisiana Sanitary Code, Title 51, Part VI.
As part of the permitting process, processors are required to submit multiple documents to LDH. A plans review questionnaire, a floor plan for the building, utility no-objection notice, a processing plan, a recall plan, and a distribution plan are all required by LDH prior to permitting. The plans will be reviewed, and deficiencies must be addressed. Afterwards, a pre-operational inspection must be passed prior to permitting.
These regulations are to ensure that the qualifications of people who manufacture and process industrial hemp into consumable hemp products are being met and that these facilities are adhering to good manufacturing practices to produce a product that is safe for consumption. It also sets out the proper ways to establish and maintain records in regards to consumable hemp processing.