Kratom Laws in California

How California law treats kratom, from the state code and official state agencies.

Short answer: The California Department of Public Health considers kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products unlawful to sell or market for consumption in any form. CDPH Food and Drug Branch, letter 'Prohibition on the Sale and Marketing of Kratom and 7-OH Products' (Jan. 9, 2026), citing Health & Safety Code § 110555

Kratom	The California Department of Public Health considers kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products unlawful to sell or market for consumption in any form. In a January 9, 2026 letter to food registrants and licensees, CDPH said these products are not approved food additives, are adulterated, and are illegal to sell to anyone of any age for consumption under Health and Safety Code § 110555, and that CDPH may embargo, seize and impound them. Sellers who do not comply may face legal action and enforcement. This is the agency's enforcement position under food safety law, not a controlled-substance listing; possession by consumers is not addressed in the letter. Health & Safety Code § 110555 was not read. Source: CDPH Food and Drug Branch, letter 'Prohibition on the Sale and Marketing of Kratom and 7-OH Products' (Jan. 9, 2026), citing Health & Safety Code § 110555

Kratom

The California Department of Public Health considers kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products unlawful to sell or market for consumption in any form. In a January 9, 2026 letter to food registrants and licensees, CDPH said these products are not approved food additives, are adulterated, and are illegal to sell to anyone of any age for consumption under Health and Safety Code § 110555, and that CDPH may embargo, seize and impound them. Sellers who do not comply may face legal action and enforcement.

This is the agency's enforcement position under food safety law, not a controlled-substance listing; possession by consumers is not addressed in the letter. Health & Safety Code § 110555 was not read.

Source: CDPH Food and Drug Branch, letter 'Prohibition on the Sale and Marketing of Kratom and 7-OH Products' (Jan. 9, 2026), citing Health & Safety Code § 110555

More California criminal law

FAQ

Is kratom legal in California?

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.