Despite the federal legalization of hemp and the rising popularity of hemp-based products, individuals still face challenges navigating regulations. A major concern for many is whether using a hemp product will affect a urine test. The answer to this question is more complex than a straightforward yes or no.
Do Urine Tests Detect Hemp-Based Cannabinoids?
It’s widely understood that both hemp and its more THC-potent relative, marijuana, contain THC cannabinoids—the compounds responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana. While hemp also contains THC, it’s in significantly smaller amounts, thanks to centuries of selective breeding for low-THC traits.
Urine tests specifically screen for THC to determine if an individual has consumed substances like marijuana. However, because both hemp and marijuana contain THC, the test cannot 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 issue, many brands have developed THC-free and cannabinoid isolate products. By isolating specific cannabinoids, these products reduce the likelihood of testing “hot” on a urine test, offering users more peace of mind.
Factors That Can Affect a Urine Test
Several factors can influence the results of a urine test, starting with anything you’ve ingested. This includes hemp-derived products, certain foods or drinks, and prescription medications. For example, Banner Health points out that everyday items like Benadryl, Ibuprofen, poppy seeds, and even some over-the-counter cold medications can trigger a false positive on a urine test.
Another key factor that may affect your urine test results is the policies of the organization requesting the test. For instance, an employer might flag any trace of THC in the test, even if it’s from a hemp product. This could be due to the nature of the job or liability concerns. Even if you only use hemp-based products during your personal time, current testing methods can’t distinguish whether the THC was consumed 30 minutes or 8 hours ago.
Despite hemp being federally legal across all 50 states, each state has its own specific rules and regulations regarding hemp. What may be legal in one state could be heavily restricted or even illegal in another. For detailed information on hemp laws and regulations, it’s best to consult the regulatory program that oversees the legal hemp industry in your state.
The Bottom Line
There are several factors to consider when preparing for a urine test, especially if you consume hemp-derived Delta 9 products. These products will likely trigger a positive result in a urine test. However, whether that result has consequences depends on several factors, including job policies and state-specific laws.
If you’re using hemp-derived Delta 9 and need to take a urine test, it’s important to gather relevant information in advance. Each situation can vary based on the factors mentioned above, and doing your research can help prevent any unexpected issues or negative outcomes.
Please note, this article is not intended to provide legal or medical advice. For any legal or medical concerns, contact the appropriate professional or resource.