The Kratom Consumer Advocacy Coalition (KCAC) has released a new position statement regarding the use of kratom among children. The statement highlights potential health risks, marketing concerns, and regulatory recommendations aimed at protecting children from exposure to kratom products.
Health Risks and Vulnerability in Children
Kratom use in children has historically been low, but the KCAC is concerned about the adverse health effects reported in pediatric cases. Additionally, children’s developing brains may be more susceptible to addiction, and regular use of kratom products could expose them to harmful levels of lead, further compounding the risk to their health.
Concerns Over Marketing Targeting Children
The KCAC is particularly alarmed by the marketing of kratom products that may appeal to children intentionally or unintentionally. Some products are sold in forms resembling popular candies, such as gummies, lollipops, chocolate bars, and cookies. These products often feature bright colors, mascots, and flavors that could attract young children or be mistaken for regular candy.
The ease of access to these products and their resemblance to well-known candy items raise concerns about accidental ingestion by younger children. The KCAC’s position draws parallels to the rise in cannabis edible-related poison control calls among children, which increased significantly after edible cannabis products entered the market.
Protecting Young People from Kratom Exposure
Research indicates young people are particularly vulnerable to substance abuse disorders when they begin using substances at an early age. This is due to the underdevelopment of the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for decision-making and impulse control. As a result, the KCAC is advocating for regulatory measures similar to those applied to tobacco and alcohol.
KCAC’s Key Recommendations
To prevent kratom exposure and potential harm to children, the KCAC recommends the following actions:
- Sales Restrictions: Kratom products should not be sold to anyone under 21 years of age, with a robust verification system in place to enforce compliance, like current regulations for alcohol and tobacco.
- Product Labeling: Easy-to-understand warning labels should be required on all kratom products, indicating they are not suitable for individuals under 21 and may be habit-forming.
- Marketing Guidelines: Kratom packaging and promotional materials should not use mascots, cartoon imagery, or candy-like shapes or formulations (such as gummies or lollipops).
- Product Packaging: Kratom products should not resemble widely recognized branded candy products, which could lead to confusion and accidental ingestion by children.
- Retailer Responsibility: Kratom should only be sold by direct transaction with a responsible adult, preventing self-service or vending machine sales. Products should be placed behind the counter or in secure display cases.
Next Steps and Public Engagement
To further protect children, the KCAC recommends a comprehensive assessment of products currently on the market that may appeal to minors. The KCAC will distribute its findings to retailers, public health officials, regulatory bodies, and the public to help reduce childhood exposure.
Public Comment Period
The KCAC invites public feedback on its position statement. The comment period is open from Monday, October 7, 2024, to Monday, November 4, 2024. To submit comments, please visit the following link: https://bit.ly/4dy9v2d
About the Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC)
The Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) is a diverse group that reviews evidence on kratom's risks and benefits to inform policy and educate the public. Their mission is to foster dialogue among stakeholders, prioritize consumer safety, and promote responsible use. The KCAC advocates for balanced regulations that protect consumers while ensuring access and is committed to transparency and open communication with the public.
