The proliferation of novice users has been a continually pursued topic in marijuana debates. A great concern has been the possibility of widespread marijuana usage and related regulatory issues.

However, since the official legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado, this issue has not developed into a massive problem. Even the shift of product marketing in shops should neither be a cause for concern in the community of Colorado nor for DU.

A primary reason why this argument has surfaced is the shift of product marketing in marijuana shops. Increasingly, shops are creating products aimed at novice users. This includes everything from “Rookie Cookies” to sodas with low levels of THC. Visitors at marijuana shops are looking for products that offer a lighter effect, which suggests that a greater number of visitors are new to the consumption of marijuana.

With this shift in marketing, some may be concerned about increases in marijuana consumption across the state. Especially on a university campus such as DU, concerns may arise about these new products attracting more students. If it is easier for students to begin consuming marijuana with products aimed at novice users, it is possible that more students may be willing to try consuming products with THC.

However, there should be few concerns about usage on-campus, due to the fact there are policies in-place to prevent usage on-campus. At DU, marijuana is not allowed on-campus, even for medicinal purposes. Students may try marijuana at a lower level to ensure their safety. It is highly unlikely that a change in marketing at marijuana shops will affect drug enforcement on-campus, especially because it is unlikely that this shift will cause increased usage in the first place. If anything, this shift may cause a decrease in marijuana-related issues due to increased safety precautions.

However, the trend in marijuana consumption does not appear to reflect the initial concerns with recreational marijuana legalization. From 2002 to 2010, marijuana consumption in Colorado increased in line with the national trend. After 2010, consumption in Colorado dropped. It appears that the expansion of marijuana markets has not significantly affected consumption. For the most part, marijuana consumers post-legalization are the same consumers from pre-legalization.

If a change in the system as drastic as legalization does not affect the number of marijuana consumers, it is highly unlikely that a change in product will have great effects on the market. We will not, therefore, likely see a spike in users as a result of the product shift.

In fact, these new products may result in a safer experience for beginning users. For those who already intend on consuming marijuana, these products offer an opportunity to try the drug at a low level before continuing. It allows users to understand their limits using a more controlled method. This is similar to the alcohol market, where many new users may try drinks with lower alcohol content, e.g. beer and wine, instead of starting with whiskey and tequila.

The shift in product variety is a healthy change that will benefit marijuana users.

The initial concerns about increased marijuana usage with legalization have been stymied. Whether it be a Rookie Cookie or Dixie One soda, the DU and greater Denver community should not worry about the change of product marketing in marijuana shops. Rather, we should embrace the change to a safer marijuana environment.