OPINION — I want my children to grow up in a world where products marketed to them are safe, honestly labeled and held to meaningful standards. I also want lawmakers to address emerging threats before they become public health crises.
That is why we must have an honest conversation about the growing market for synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine products and why simply banning kratom is the wrong solution.
Nationwide, highly concentrated and synthetic 7-OH products are rapidly appearing in gasoline stations, smoke shops and online marketplaces. Many come in bright colors, candy-like branding and marketing that appeals to younger consumers. They are often promoted for their intoxicating effects, not as traditional botanical products.
