FDA raises kratom limit to boost farmers’ incomes
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has committed to promoting kratom-based products to enhance farmers’ incomes while adhering to safety standards.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently increased the daily consumption limit of mitragynine, a key alkaloid in kratom plants, from 1 milligramme to 3 milligrammes. This development is significant in advancing kratom-infused products.
Mitragynine is known for its ability to stimulate the nervous system, relieve pain, and energise users. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce stress. However, kratom consumption can also lead to intoxication and, if used excessively over time, may result in addiction.
Somsak has been a proponent of kratom due to its benefits since his tenure as justice minister in the previous administration. The plant is no longer classified as a controlled substance nationally, allowing cultivation, sale, purchase, and consumption under FDA regulations.
Despite being removed from the drug list, kratom was initially restricted from use in consumer goods.
Upon becoming public health minister last year, Somsak advocated for the recognition of kratom’s benefits, culminating in the FDA approving a higher daily mitragynine limit. The increase to 3 milligrammes is expected to facilitate the development of a broader array of kratom-based products, thus offering farmers more lucrative opportunities, reported Bangkok Post.
Dr Witit Srisa-atchachakul, the Deputy Secretary-General of the FDA, shared that products must carry warnings and precautions on their labels to ensure consumer safety and product quality.
Additionally, this regulatory change is a major step towards the legal and safe commercial use of kratom, which will have a positive impact on Thailand’s economy. It is also expected to improve Thailand’s image as a producer of high-quality natural health products.
In other news, Thailand Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin issued an urgent response to soaring PM 2.5 air pollution levels, which have breached safety thresholds in 14 provinces, threatening public health.
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