Adultuse

Adult-use, commonly referred to as recreational cannabis, denotes cannabis products that may be legally possessed and used by adults for non-medical purposes. The concept is distinct from medical cannabis, which is typically available to patients with authorization or registration. In jurisdictions that allow adult-use markets, sales to adults are regulated by government agencies through age verification, product labeling, potency limits, packaging requirements, advertising rules, and taxation. Age limits typically range from 18 to 21 years, depending on the jurisdiction; possession and transfer limits, as well as residency requirements, may also apply. Product types commonly include dried flower, pre-rolled products, edibles, concentrates, topicals, and vaping products. Public consumption is usually restricted to approved areas, and advertising is frequently limited.

Legal status for adult-use cannabis varies worldwide. Some places have fully regulated adult-use markets alongside medical programs; others prohibit non-medical use or allow only decriminalized possession. Proponents argue that regulated adult-use markets reduce illegal trade, create government revenue, and enable consumer safety through quality controls. Critics raise concerns about youth exposure, impaired driving, mental health risks, and the potential for increased overall use.

Regulators often require testing for contaminants and potency, child-resistant packaging, clear warning labels, and seed-to-sale tracking. Enforcement includes age verification at sale and penalties for illegal sales or distribution. Research into adult-use cannabis continues to monitor health outcomes, consumption patterns, and social effects, with findings varying by jurisdiction and policy design.