What does the experiment mean for me as a consumer?
During the experiment, the main change for consumers is that they can buy cannabis that has been tested for quality. Participating ‘coffee shops’ (the local term for cannabis cafés) will continue to sell various strains of weed and hash.
Cannabis quality
The cannabis sold in the coffee shops participating in the experiment is tested for quality. You therefore know how much THC and CBD are in the products. THC and CBD are compounds in cannabis that together produce the plant’s effects. The amount of heavy metals and aflatoxin in the products will also be checked. Aflatoxin is a toxin that can occur naturally in cannabis.
Strains of weed and hash in the experiment
During the experiment you can buy various strains of weed and hash in coffee shops. The government does not impose any requirements with regard to the strains of weed and hash sold during the experiment.
Required information in coffee shops
The government wants coffee shops to be able to give their customers accurate information about using cannabis and the associated risks. Coffee shops are required to have information material available. Customers can also scan a QR code on the packaging to access an information leaflet and video about cannabis use.
Customers can also ask staff for information and advice about cannabis use and the associated risks. Coffee shops participating in the Controlled Cannabis Supply Chain Experiment must provide training on this for their staff.