As more states legalize pot for fun and medicine, edibles industry burgeons

MONTPELIER, Vt. – Move over, pot brownies.

The proliferation of marijuana edibles for both medical and recreational purposes is giving rise to a cottage industry. Cookbooks, classes and vendors are spreading information on ways to make candies, infused olive oils and more.

Many pot users turn to edibles because they don’t like to inhale or smell the smoke or just want variety or a longer lasting, more intense high. For many people who are sick or in pain, some edibles can deliver a longer-lasting therapeutic dose that doesn’t give them a high.

Education about proper dosing has become a priority at dispensaries and cooking classes after at least one death and a handful of hospital visits have been linked to consuming too much of an edible.