Yes, Kava is legal in Tennessee for individuals aged 21 and older, as the state does not classify it as a controlled substance. The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) and the Department of Health monitor its sale and consumption, aligning with federal guidelines under the 2022 Omnibus Appropriations Act, which excluded kava from Schedule I substances. Local jurisdictions may impose additional age verification requirements for kava bars or retail sales.
Key Regulations for Kava in Tennessee
- Age Restriction: Retailers must verify buyers are 21+ via ID checks, per TABC guidelines for intoxicating beverages.
- Licensing: Kava products sold as beverages require a Tennessee Retail Food License if marketed for consumption on-premises.
- Labeling Compliance: Labels must disclose psychoactive ingredients and comply with FDA guidelines for dietary supplements or beverages.
Recent 2026 shifts in Tennessee’s Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act amendments now require kava vendors to submit product formulations to the Department of Health for pre-market review, ensuring adherence to purity standards. Violations may result in fines or license suspension under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act. Retailers should monitor updates from the TABC and local health departments to avoid non-compliance.