WSDA: Starting April 1 Businesses Will Need New License Endorsements To Produce Pot-Infused Edibles

According to legislation passed during the 2017 legislative session, starting April 1^st of this year, the Washington State Department of Agriculture will regulate makers of marijuana edibles within the Evergreen State.  WSDA’s Hector Castro told the Washington Ag Network it’s more accurate to say the Department of Ag will share regulation requirements with the state Liquor and Cannabis Board.  Starting next month, when WSDA conducts a food safety check, the Department can issue marijuana processing licenses, which will streamline the effort.

The endorsement carries an annual fee of $895.  Castro said the increased fee will lead to an increase in the number of inspections.

“We expect that we’ll increase our outreach and education to make sure these businesses are aware of the sanitation rules that they have to follow.”

Castro said they will focus on a high compliance rate.  He added these inspections by the WSDA will run like any food based inspection, ensure the product is safe for human consumption.

“And we’re talking about things like ensuring that there are hand washing stations for employees, ensuring that that there’s good pest control in the facility, and make sure that everything stays clean and sanitary, and a lot of other requirements along those lines.”

Currently there are 127 businesses in Washington production marijuana infused edibles.  To learn more about the new rules and regulations, visit the WSDA's Website.

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