Cannabis Edibles on the Rise — Are We Ready for the Safety Implications?

Meet Stacy — a mum of two, a photographer, and a resident of Alabama, USA. Once a week, Stacy unwinds — not with a glass of wine, but with a cannabis-infused gummy. Legal under her state’s laws due to its low THC content, Stacy represents a growing demographic of everyday professionals and parents across the U.S. who are turning to cannabis edibles for relaxation.

This shift reflects a broader trend in the U.S., where daily cannabis use has now surpassed daily alcohol consumption. According to a 2024 study published in Addiction, 17.7 million Americans use cannabis daily, compared to 14.7 million daily alcohol users.

Cannabis gummies are discreet, easy to dose, and often marketed with wellness in mind. But their accessibility and appeal raise important questions — especially in safety-sensitive environments.

 ⚠️  Key Considerations

As cannabis culture evolves, so must our understanding of its implications – especially in workplaces, schools, hospitals, and other safety-sensitive settings.

• • Delayed Onset
    Edibles can take longer to show signs of effect, making it harder to recognise when someone may be affected.
  • Discreet Use
    Gummies can be consumed in a way that’s not easily noticeable. They look like regular lollies, have no strong smell, and don’t produce vapour or smoke. This makes them easier to use without drawing attention, especially in workplaces or public settings. However, this does not mean they are undetectable in drug testing. THC gummies can still be detected through workplace drug testing and/or roadside testing.
  • Legal Loopholes
    Products containing THC may be legal in some jurisdictions, they can still affect judgment, reflexes, and motor skills.
  • Changing Attitudes
    As cannabis becomes more socially accepted, it’s important individuals understand their responsibility in disclosing medications that may affect their ability to perform their job safely.

Road Safety

What does this mean for road safety and the ability for individuals to know when they can legally drive?

Despite increased acceptance, road safety laws remain strict. In Australia, any detectable level of THC – regardless of whether it’s prescribed – can result in a driving offence. Individuals must understand that:

• • Medicinal use does not equal legal driving.
  • THC can remain detectable for hours or days.
  • Responsibility lies with the individual to ensure they drive safely and legally.

The Role of Drug & Alcohol Testing

At Alcolizer Technology, we’re committed to helping individuals and organisations navigate this evolving landscape. Our certified and independently verified devices and training programs ensure testing is accurate, respectful, and aligned with Australian and New Zealand standards.

For Medicinal Cannabis Users

If you’re a medicinal cannabis patient, please speak with your medical practitioner about the implications for driving and performing your job safely. It’s important to understand how long the effects may last and and the implications with the Company’s Drug and Alcohol Policy and Procedure  – particularly in safety-sensitive roles and before driving.

Oral Fluid Testing – A Practical Solution

Unlike urine tests, which detect use up to 28 days, oral fluid testing offers a shorter window of detection — typically up to  24 hours post-consumption.  Druglizer, Oral Detect and ToxWipe7 tests detect THC at 15ng/mL and provide a convenient single-use option to help individuals make informed decisions.

Cannabis Gummies

THC Gummies

• Contain Delta-9 THC, the psychoactive compound that causes a “high.”
• They are illegal without a prescription for medical use. Classified as Schedule 8 Controlled Drugs.
• Possession without a prescription is a serious criminal offence.
• Importing edibles from overseas can lead to significant legal issues and ramifications with your Company’s Drug and Alcohol Policy and Procedure.

CBD Gummies

• These products contain Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound believed to support relief from anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders.
• Legal Status – Low-dose CBD gummies (under 150mg CBD per day and <1% THC) can be sold without a prescription only if they are registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). However currently, no CBD gummies have been approved or registered, so they cannot be legally sold over the counter in Australia.
• Prescription Requirement – Even low-dose CBD products still require a prescription from a licensed medical practitioner until ARTG registration is granted.
•  CBD in Food/Supplements – The inclusion of CBD in food products (such as gummies) is not yet approved in Australia. These products must undergo the full Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval process before they can be legally sold.

🚫 Beware of Misleading Products

Some over-the-counter drug tests claim to detect cannabis but many are urine tests detecting after 24 hours so not ideal for assessing current use and may give users a false sense of security.

✅ Stay Informed. Stay Safe.

Cannabis may be changing but safety remains essential. Alcolizer Technology aims to help you stay ahead with the right tools, policies, training and support. Whether you’re an employer, a safety officer, or a medicinal cannabis user, we’re here to help you make informed, responsible decisions.

Sources

• Caulkins, J. P. (2024). Daily marijuana use surpasses daily alcohol use in the U.S. Addiction. Retrieved from PBS NewsHour

• Sabaghi, D. (2024, May 31). Cannabis Tops Alcohol In Daily Use For First Time Ever, Study Finds. Forbes. Retrieved from Forbes.