Laws surrounding cannabis and cannabis compounds like CBD and Delta 9 THC seem to change faster than the weather.
It’s trickier than ever to keep up with what is and isn’t allowed in a specific state. Wouldn’t it be nice if our legislators could just reach an agreement on this topic once and for all?
If you’re an Iowa resident and have been interested in trying Delta 9 THC, this guide is for you. Below, you’ll find the answers to pressing questions like “Is Delta 9 legal in Iowa?”, “Can I buy Delta 9 in Iowa?” and more.
Key Takeaways:
- You can purchase hemp-derived Delta 9 products as long as they contain less than 0.3 percent THC.
- Marijuana is still illegal in Iowa, meaning Delta 9 products made from marijuana plants remain illegal.
What is Delta 9?
Delta 9 is the most abundant form of THC (the cannabinoid responsible for cannabis’s intoxicating effects) found in cannabis. It’s associated with a variety of health and wellness benefits, including the following:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Glaucoma
- Low appetite
- Muscle spasms
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Pain
- Nausea
Delta 9 vs. CBD
Delta 9 and CBD are cannabinoids. However, Delta 9 is psychoactive (more so than other forms of THC, such as Delta 8 and Delta 10). CBD, on the other hand, does not have any intoxicating effects.
Is Delta 9 Legal Federally?
Delta 9 can be legal in the United States, depending on how it’s sourced. Per the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, hemp-derived Delta 9 is permitted as long as the product being sold contains less than 0.3 percent Delta 9 THC. This act legalized the sale of other hemp-derived cannabinoids as well, including CBG and CBN.
Hemp and marijuana both belong to the cannabis family. The primary difference is the availability of THC. Hemp plants contain very little THC (less than 0.3 percent, which is nowhere near enough to cause a high), whereas marijuana plants can contain far more.
Is Delta 9 Legal in Iowa?
Marijuana is illegal in Iowa, meaning Delta 9 products made from marijuana plants are also unlawful. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get your hands on Delta 9.
You can purchase hemp-derived Delta 9 products as long as they contain less than 0.3 percent THC.
If you’re an Iowa resident and want to experience the physical and mental health benefits of Delta 9 THC, you can. You just have to make sure you’re getting it from a hemp-based product.
Delta 9 and Iowa State Law: The Specifics
For those who want more information on Delta 9 and its legality in Iowa, here are some specific definitions and details to keep in mind, all gleaned from the Iowa Hemp Act:
Definition of Hemp
Iowa state law defines hemp as “the plant Cannabis sativa L.,” as well as all parts of that plant, including the following:
- Acids
- Cannabinoids
- Derivatives
- Extracts
- Isomers
- Salts
- Salts of isomers
- Seeds
Iowa state law also echoes federal law, which states that delta-9 THC cannot be present in hemp plants in quantities greater than 0.3 percent.
Consumable Hemp Products
Iowa’s law also applies the same rules mentioned above to “consumable hemp products.” These products are defined as those that include substances that are “metabolized or…subject to a biotransformation process” when consumed.
The law also includes these critical caveats regarding consumable hemp products:
- These products may be introduced into the body via ingestion or absorption by any device, including electric devices
- These products can exist in solid or liquid states
- These products must be “designed…to be introduced into the human body.”
- They must also be advertised as an item that can be introduced into the body
- They must be distributed, exported, or imported with the intent of being sold or distributed as products that can be introduced into the human body.
The law also provides examples of consumable hemp products, including the following:
- Non-combustible forms of hemp that can be digested, e.g., food; internally absorbed, e.g., chew or snuff; or absorbed through the skin
- Hemp that is processed or manufactured, marketed, distributed, or sold as food, food additives, dietary supplements, or drugs.
As you can see, Iowa law leaves quite a bit of room for various Delta 9 products, from oils to gummies.
What to Look for in Delta 9 Products?
Now that you know that you can legally buy and consume Delta 9 THC in Iowa, you might be wondering what kinds of products you should look for or how to tell if you’ve chosen high-quality ones.
Here are some of the most important factors to consider when shopping for Delta 9 products (and other products containing cannabinoids):
Concentration
Remember that, to be considered legal in Iowa, Delta 9 products must be made using THC derived from the hemp plant. They also cannot contain more than 0.3 percent THC. Make sure this is true for the product you’re considering.
Check to see how much THC is present in the entire product, too, so you know roughly how much you’re getting with each dose.
Additional Ingredients
Be wary of products made with artificial flavors or coloring. If possible, choose products like gummies that get their color and flavor from natural sources, such as fruit and vegetable powders and oils.
Testing
The most reputable manufacturers and sellers of Delta 9 products (and other products containing cannabinoids) will test their products in third-party labs. Look into the testing process and the lab certifications (such as ISO 17025) before making a decision.
Farming
Is the Delta 9 THC in a particular product derived from plants grown in the United States? Are these plants organically grown?
If the seller can say “yes” to these two questions, there’s a better chance that you’re getting a high-quality, effective product.
Satisfaction Guarantee
Finally, make sure the seller offers a satisfaction guarantee. If you don’t like the product after trying it for a certain amount of time, you should be able to get your money back.
Where to Buy Delta 9 in Iowa
Put simply, Delta 9 THC is legal in Iowa as long as it’s in a hemp-derived product and in a quantity at or below 0.3 percent.
Are you interested in experiencing the benefits of Delta 9 THC? If so, Evn offers high-quality THC and CBD products that taste delicious, are free from artificial colors and flavors, and can help you feel your best.
Try our Delta 9 Live Rosin Gummies today.
Curious about other state's Delta 9 THC regulations? Learn More:
Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563174/
https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr2
Disclaimer: This article was last updated in August 2023 and reflects federal and state legal information as of this date. Cannabis laws in the U.S. are continually shifting; therefore, the information in this article is subject to change. The information in this article does not constitute legal advice, and no entity at EVN-CBD is claiming to provide legal advice. Please visit your official state website for more information on your state’s cannabis laws and regulations.
The information provided in this blog and by this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be professional medical advice, a medical diagnosis, or medical treatment. Please consult your health practitioner with any questions you have regarding a medical condition.