The U.S. Army has recently revised its drug policy to explicitly ban the use of delta-8 THC hemp products, clarifying that soldiers are prohibited from consuming these substances. This update comes amid concerns over widespread accessibility to synthetic THC substitutes, which are often marketed as legal alternatives but pose similar risks to traditional THC in terms of abuse potential. According to Stars and Stripes, “The Army recently revised its 142 pages of regulations on substance abuse to remind soldiers to steer clear of poppy seeds and delta-8, a mild cannabinoid, both of which may cause a positive result on drug screening tests.”

In addition to this ban, the Army has issued a warning to its personnel to avoid foods containing poppy seeds. These seeds, commonly found in baked goods, can lead to false positives in opioid drug tests due to their opium alkaloid content. The updated policy reflects a broader effort to curb drug and alcohol abuse among service members, reinforcing the Army’s zero-tolerance stance.  As noted by Army.mil, “Delta-8 usage is becoming increasingly problematic among military ranks,” said Michael Hicks, a drug test coordinator for the Army Substance Abuse Program. “These drugs are also available in states where marijuana is legal, but they are always prohibited in the Army.”

This policy shift aligns with the Department of Defense’s overarching prohibition on cannabis derivatives, despite the federal legality of CBD products following the 2018 Farm Bill. The Army’s comprehensive ban on all hemp-derived products, including CBD, is designed to eliminate any ambiguity over what might trigger a positive drug test, even when products are labelled as THC-free.

While the Army maintains its strict policies, other military branches such as the Navy and Air Force have slightly relaxed their regulations. They now offer waivers to new recruits who test positive for marijuana upon entry, although they continue to prohibit all hemp-derived products. This nuanced approach across different branches highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing legal changes with military discipline and operational readiness.

As rules about substances change, it’s important for service members to know how these changes affect their everyday lives. By staying informed about what they can and can’t use, soldiers can keep their focus and stay dedicated to their duties.

Source: Forbes