Critical Alert for Kratom Industry: Heightened Scrutiny on 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) Demands Immediate Merchant Action

Critical Alert for Kratom Industry: Heightened Scrutiny on 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) Demands Immediate Merchant Action

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[City, State] – February 4, 2026 – A recent article from the Partnership to End Addiction, titled "Kratom 7-OH: What to Know About this Powerful Compound," underscores a growing regulatory focus on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent alkaloid found in the kratom plant. This development carries significant implications for kratom merchants and consumers, necessitating a proactive approach to compliance and product integrity.

What Happened: The Partnership to End Addiction's article highlights 7-OH as a "very strong chemical" naturally present in kratom in "tiny, tiny amounts" but significantly more powerful than other compounds within the plant. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reportedly stated that 7-OH can be up to 13 times more potent than morphine, posing a high risk of addiction, severe withdrawal symptoms, and dangerous side effects, including slowed breathing and overdose.

Crucially, the concern centers on concentrated, semi-synthetic, or synthetic 7-OH products, which can contain up to 98% 7-OH and are increasingly found in pills, gummies, candies, and even imitation ice cream cones, often marketed to children. In July 2025, the FDA announced steps to restrict access to these concentrated 7-OH products due to their strong opioid-like effects, distinguishing them from less-potent natural kratom leaf products. The FDA has issued warning letters to companies distributing these products and seized approximately $1 million worth of 7-OH in Missouri.

At the state level, regulatory actions are escalating. Ohio, for instance, passed emergency regulations effective December 2025, making "kratom-related products" (including 7-OH) illegal to sell, possess, or distribute, though it specifically exempts natural kratom in its vegetation form with trace amounts of 7-OH. California lawmakers have also pursued measures, with the health department interpreting existing law to crack down on 7-OH, and proposals for age restrictions are in development.

Why It Matters to Kratom Merchants and Consumers: This intensified scrutiny on 7-OH creates a critical juncture for the kratom industry. For merchants, the clear distinction being drawn by federal and state authorities between natural kratom leaf and concentrated 7-OH products is paramount. The continued availability of responsibly sourced, natural kratom hinges on the industry's ability to self-regulate and distance itself from products that amplify 7-OH content. Failure to do so risks broader bans and damage to the industry's reputation, potentially impacting legitimate businesses. Consumers, likewise, need to be aware of the inherent differences and potential dangers associated with highly concentrated 7-OH products compared to traditional kratom leaf.

Compliance Implications: While kratom itself remains federally unscheduled under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), the FDA views it as an unapproved new dietary ingredient and is actively targeting concentrated 7-OH. The FDA recommended in July 2025 that 7-OH be classified as a Schedule I substance, while aiming to keep natural kratom products available. This signals a clear intent to regulate 7-OH separately and stringently. State-level bans and regulations are rapidly evolving, creating a complex and fragmented legal landscape.

What High-Risk Merchants Need to Know About COAs, Lab Testing, and Regulatory Compliance: For high-risk kratom merchants, proactive and rigorous compliance is no longer optional—it's essential for survival.

1. Comprehensive Lab Testing: Mandate third-party laboratory testing for all products. Crucially, Certificates of Analysis (COAs) must clearly delineate the concentrations of both mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Products should contain only naturally occurring, trace amounts of 7-OH, typically less than 2% of the total alkaloid content. Any product with elevated or added 7-OH is a significant liability.
2. Verify COAs: Do not just accept COAs; verify their authenticity and ensure they are from reputable, accredited laboratories.
3. Product Formulation: Strictly avoid adding concentrated, semi-synthetic, or synthetic 7-OH to any kratom product. Ensure your offerings are derived solely from the natural kratom leaf.
4. Transparent Labeling and Marketing: Be meticulously accurate in product labeling. Avoid any marketing that could be perceived as appealing to minors (e.g., candy-like packaging or flavors) or making unsubstantiated claims about potency.
5. Stay Abreast of Regulations: Continuously monitor federal, state, and local legislative and regulatory changes concerning kratom and 7-OH. Ignorance of the law is not a defense.
6. Age Restrictions and Child-Resistant Packaging: Implement robust age verification processes (e.g., 21+) and be prepared to adopt child-resistant packaging, as these are common features in proposed and enacted regulations.

The industry's future depends on a collective commitment to responsible practices. By prioritizing transparency, stringent lab testing, and adherence to evolving regulations, kratom merchants can help safeguard consumer safety and the legitimate market for natural kratom products.