Thailand is witnessing a groundbreaking shift in its cannabis landscape with the launch of Baked Thailand‘s microdose cookies, which are the first of their kind to receive FDA approval. These THC-infused cookies, containing a carefully measured 1.6 mg of THC each, are now permitted for sale in grocery stores, bars, and restaurants across the country. This initiative signifies a pivotal moment for cannabis edibles in Thailand, allowing consumers to explore cannabis in a controlled and safe environment.
Baked Thailand cookies, containing a microdose of 1.6 g of THC.
Photo courtesy of Baked Thailand.
Founded by Ornipa Levey, known affectionately as “Pupae,” Baked Thailand has a rich backstory rooted in the nation’s evolving cannabis policy. Levey started experimenting with cannabis-infused edibles long before the Thai government paved the way for legal usage. “The government legalized the use of fan leaves in food and beverages about two years ago, but most products available at that time did not produce euphoric effects,” Levey explains. This encouraged her to create a more traditional edible within the FDA’s stringent guidelines.
To comply with FDA Thailand regulations, Baked Thailand revised their initial concept. Originally, they planned to offer a six-pack of cookies, allowing for a total dosage of 9.6 mg of THC; however, this was ultimately deemed unfeasible. “The FDA does not want consumers to think they can consume enough to get a macrodose,” Levey states. Consequently, the focus shifted to individually packaged cookies, requiring additional adjustments to ensure the packaging met the mandated standards.
“It wasn’t easy,” Levey says, reflecting on the lengthy process of gaining approval. “We went back and forth and underwent multiple rounds of testing and packaging changes.” After months of diligence, the cookies are now available for preorders, marking a milestone with the first FDA-approved cannabis cookies in Thailand.
The Current Cannabis Climate in Thailand
As an industry pioneer, Baked Thailand represents vital progress in a challenging cannabis landscape. Thailand made history by becoming the first Southeast Asian country to legalize medical cannabis in 2018. Last year, the nation decriminalized recreational cannabis use, allowing adults to cultivate cannabis plants at home, provided they notify local authorities. However, recent political developments have raised concerns that this shift may not be permanent, as the winners of Thailand’s recent elections threaten to reverse progress on recreational cannabis.
Levey reflects on the persisting stigma surrounding cannabis in Thailand, referencing instances where edibles have ended up in unexpected young hands. “Historically, cannabis was grouped with hard drugs like heroin, leading people to believe it had monstrous effects,” she notes. Such ingrained perceptions remain a major hurdle as lawmakers navigate the regulatory landscape. “The cautious nature of Thai lawmakers is likely a result of years of misinformation,” Levey suggests. “Regulations may become stricter after elections, particularly concerning flower growers and dispensary operators.”
Baked Thailand’s products must adhere to several safety regulations, including clear consumption recommendations and warnings regarding usage for pregnant women, children, and those with allergies. For Levey, the FDA’s guidelines are strict: while the cookies are designed with careful dosing in mind, they are not allowed to market their products to minors or pregnant individuals. Nonetheless, Levey exclaims, “They can be sold nearly anywhere in Thailand without a special cannabis license!” Excitement fills the air as Baked Thailand prepares to distribute their unique products to cafes, bars, restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience outlets nationwide.
Born from Necessity
The journey to creating these cookies was not merely a business venture; it was deeply personal. Levey’s father-in-law endured chronic pain that traditional medications failed to alleviate effectively. This predicament inspired her and her husband, Louis, to explore cannabis-infused solutions during the opioid epidemic, avoiding opioids altogether due to his lack of the necessary receptors. “The cookies worked where other options didn’t,” Levey allows.
Baked Thailand founders Ornipa and Louis Levey, at a sponsored event.
Photo courtesy of Baked Thailand
The choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in Baked Thailand’s philosophy. They source organic cannabis leaves from Maejo University, one of Thailand’s oldest agricultural institutions. “While we could find cheaper options, we opted for Maejo because it’s a reputable name in the industry,” Levey explains. The cookies are formulated to include a microdose of 1.6 mg THC, catering to novices looking to discover their body’s reaction to ingestible cannabis.
Each cookie weighs a user-friendly 8 grams, making it enjoyable to sample multiple cookies for varying effects. Baked Thailand’s edibles are not only legal; they are tourist-friendly too, with minimal restrictions on where they can be sold. Levey states, “They can be sold nearly anywhere except schools, hospitals, and temples.”
Baked Thailand’s updated packaging is a testament to their adherence to regulations.
Photo courtesy of Baked Thailand.
When discussing the cookie’s flavor, Levey beams with pride. “We chose a traditional American-style chocolate chip cookie, perfectly marrying the rich flavors with a hint of full-spectrum cannabis,” she describes. The sugar-coated finish adds a unique twist, producing a delightful crackling effect upon biting.
Currently, Baked Thailand’s cookies are available in select shops in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with plans to expand shipping throughout the Kingdom—including popular tourist destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui. Levey expresses enthusiasm about future flavors, hinting at upcoming offerings that cater to distinct Thai tastes, as well as various new products in development to further enrich the Thai market.
Learn more about Baked Thailand and their innovative products on their website.