Despite the federal legalization of hemp and the growing popularity of hemp-based products, there is still a lot of regulatory gray area that individuals face daily. One of the most common concerns is whether using hemp products will affect the results of a urine test. The answer to this question is more complex than a simple yes or no.
Do Urine Tests Detect Hemp-Based Cannabinoids?
It’s well-known that both hemp and its THC-rich counterpart, marijuana, contain THC cannabinoids. These cannabinoids are responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana. While hemp does contain THC, it’s in much lower concentrations due to centuries of selective breeding for specific traits.
Urine tests are designed to detect THC, typically to determine whether someone has consumed certain substances. However, because THC is present in both hemp and marijuana, the test can’t differentiate between the two sources. As a result, a urine test will show positive for THC regardless of whether it came from hemp or marijuana.
To address this concern, many brands have developed THC-free and cannabinoid isolate products. By extracting specific cannabinoids, they can create products that reduce the risk of triggering a positive result on a urine test.
Factors That Can Affect a Urine Test
Several factors can influence the results of a urine test, starting with what you’ve consumed. This includes items like hemp-derived products, certain foods and drinks, and prescription medications. For example, Banner Health points out that common substances such as Benadryl, Ibuprofen, poppy seeds, and some over-the-counter cold medicines can lead to false positives on a urine test.
Another factor that could affect your urine test is the specific policies of the organization requesting the test. For instance, a workplace might flag any THC detected, regardless of whether it comes from hemp-based products. This could be due to the nature of the job or liability concerns. Even if you only consume hemp-based THC during your personal time, current testing methods cannot distinguish whether it was consumed 30 minutes ago or eight hours ago.
Finally, while hemp is federally legal across all 50 states, each state has its own specific rules and regulations regarding hemp products. What might be legal in one state could be restricted or even illegal in another. For more detailed information on hemp laws in your state, it’s best to consult the regulatory body that governs the legal hemp industry where you live.
The Bottom Line
There are several factors to consider when taking a urine test. If you consume a hemp-derived Delta 9 product before undergoing a test, it is likely to result in a positive reading. However, whether or not this result is significant can depend on multiple factors, such as the type of job, company policies, and state regulations, all of which can influence the outcome.
If you use hemp-derived Delta 9 and are required to take a urine test, it’s advisable to gather this information beforehand. Each case is unique, and considering the factors mentioned can help you avoid unexpected or undesirable results.
Please note that this article is not intended as legal or medical advice. For any specific legal or medical concerns, reach out to the appropriate professionals or resources.