How to Read a New York Cannabis Label: What Every Consumer Should Know

With adult-use cannabis now legal in New York, understanding what’s on your product label is key to staying informed, safe, and empowered as a consumer. The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) requires all licensed products to include standardized labels designed to promote transparency, safety, and informed use. Here’s what you need to know before making your next purchase.

1. Know What’s in Your Product
Every legal cannabis product in New York must list its potency — the amount of active cannabinoids it contains, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

For edibles (like gummies, chews, or beverages), look for the number of milligrams (mg) of THC and CBD per serving and per package. This helps you understand how much you’re consuming and to dose responsibly.

For inhalables (like flower, pre-rolls, or vape cartridges), the label will show the percentage (%) of cannabinoids in the product. It may also list the cultivar or strain name, which gives you an idea of the product’s characteristics or effects.

Since potency can vary widely, always start low and go slow — especially if you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product type.

2. Understand the Warnings
Cannabis products are regulated like alcohol or pharmaceuticals, meaning they must include specific warning statements. These are there to protect you and others around you. Common warnings include avoiding consumption while pregnant or breastfeeding, not operating heavy machinery after use, and keeping products away from children or pets.

Each label also includes the Poison Control Center phone number — (800) 222-1222 — which you should call immediately if someone accidentally consumes cannabis or experiences negative effects.

3. Check for Quality Assurance
Every legal cannabis product in New York includes a QR code that links directly to its Certificate of Analysis (CoA) — a laboratory report verifying that the product has been tested for safety and accuracy. The CoA confirms cannabinoid content and checks for contaminants such as pesticides, mold, or heavy metals.

You should also check the “Expiration Date” or “Use By Date” to ensure the product is still fresh and effective. Cannabis can degrade when exposed to air or light, which affects potency and safety.

4. Follow Storage and Usage Guidelines
Always store cannabis in its original, child-resistant packaging. Keep all products — especially edibles that may look like regular food — out of sight and reach of young people and pets. Proper storage not only prevents accidents but also maintains quality.

5. Look for the Universal THC Symbol
All legal adult-use cannabis products in New York must display the Universal THC Symbol, which helps consumers quickly identify items that contain THC. This simple but powerful mark ensures you can easily distinguish regulated cannabis from unregulated or counterfeit products.

The Bottom Line
Reading a cannabis label isn’t just about knowing what you’re buying — it’s about protecting yourself and supporting New York’s safe, legal cannabis market. The OCM encourages consumers to always verify products using QR codes, store them safely, and consume responsibly.

For more information, visit cannabis.ny.gov or call 1-888-OCM-5151.