Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC differs from delta-9 THC only in where one double bond sits in the molecule. The effect is similar: FDA describes delta-8 as psychoactive and intoxicating (FDA).

Hemp naturally holds very little delta-8, so manufacturers typically produce it by converting CBD through chemical synthesis. FDA has raised concerns about the household chemicals used, harmful byproducts and unsanitary production conditions, and has not evaluated any delta-8 product for safe use (FDA). FDA logged 104 adverse event reports involving delta-8 between December 1, 2020 and February 28, 2022, and poison control centers logged 2,362 exposure cases between January 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022 (FDA).

Under section 781 of Public Law 119-37, cannabinoids synthesized or manufactured outside the plant lose hemp status, and delta-8 made from CBD is the textbook case (P.L. 119-37; 7 U.S.C. 1639o). Delta-8 also counts toward the total tetrahydrocannabinols limit.

UPS prohibits shipment of any synthetic or lab-made cannabinoid compound (UPS). Many states ban or restrict delta-8 on their own.