Edible Arrangements, famous for its fruit bouquets, is stirring up controversy with a new line of products. The company’s parent brand, Edible Brands, just launched Edibles.com, a website selling hemp-derived THC drinks and gummies. While these products are technically legal under federal law, critics argue they exploit loopholes in the 2018 Farm Bill to push intoxicating items into communities.
The company claims its new platform offers “safe, tested” products, starting in Texas with plans to expand nationwide. But many question the timing, as states like Texas are moving to ban such items. Lawmakers and law enforcement warn these products often contain higher THC levels than advertised, fueling concerns about addiction and public safety.
Edible Brands is leveraging its existing delivery network, originally built for fruit baskets, to drop THC edibles on doorsteps within hours. This raises eyebrows about mixing family-friendly branding with mind-altering substances. Conservative leaders argue this blurs the line between harmless treats and drugs, potentially confusing consumers.
The 2018 Farm Bill allowed hemp with under 0.3% THC, but companies now use chemical processes to boost potency. Texas police chiefs recently blasted these practices, noting some products test 78% THC—stronger than traditional marijuana. “These aren’t your grandma’s edibles,” said one critic. “They’re lab-made highs targeting young people.”
Despite state crackdowns, Edible Brands vows to expand, using franchises to spread THC products quickly. Critics warn this corporate push could normalize drug use, undermining years of anti-drug education. “It’s irresponsible to disguise intoxicants as casual snacks,” said a parent advocacy group. “Kids could mistake these for candy.”
The company defends its move, calling it a “wellness” initiative. Yet many conservatives see it as profit-driven, capitalizing on legal gray areas while communities grapple with addiction crises. “They’re playing semantics with the law,” said a Texas legislator. “Just because you can sell something doesn’t mean you should.”
With Congress eyeing stricter hemp rules, this marketplace might face shutdowns. But for now, Edibles.com charges ahead, betting on America’s appetite for legal highs. As one commentator noted, “This isn’t about fruit baskets anymore—it’s about pushing boundaries, and families will pay the price.”
