Q. Does the now available tincture require a hechsher? (It is a liquid concentration of the marijuana plant. You just put a few drops on the tongue; see question above).
A. In regards to a hechsher on drug products the OU (in their web page) mentions: There has been much confusion and misinformation about these products, and the OU has received numerous communications expressing surprise about the OU decision to grant certification to marijuana products. Two main concerns have been expressed: a) OU endorsement of marijuana products may create an impression that recreational use of marijuana is acceptable, and this may lead to increased use of marijuana and other addictive substances. b) OU products designed for medicinal use will most likely make their way into the wrong hands.
While these concerns are understandable, they reflect a misunderstanding of the nature of these products and the manner in which they are dispensed.
The OU supervision is limited to medical marijuana which is fundamentally different than recreational marijuana. This OU certified product is sold only in New York State in designated centers in one of the most tightly controlled programs in the world, and it is unlikely that its use will lead lead to substance abuse.
Horav Shlomo Miller Shilt’a opinion in regards to the use of recreational drugs was mentioned in the prior question and therefore, as expressed above, it would be incorrect to give a hechsher.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit’a.
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