Undisclosed Ethanol in Kratom Extracts

Lab tests detected ethanol above USP limits in multiple kratom products —
raising questions about classification, labeling, and state alcohol regulations.

Ethanol Above USP Limits: A Regulatory Question

Independent laboratory analysis of commercially available kratom extract “shots” and tinctures has repeatedly detected ethanol at concentrations exceeding USP <467> residual solvent limits for ingestible products (5,000 ppm). Multiple samples were designated as “fail” under residual solvent testing. These products are often sold in convenience stores, vape shops, and gas stations — typically without alcohol labeling, age restrictions, or alcohol-specific licensing.

Kansas ABC precedent: According to a Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control Division investigation reported by KCTV5, certain kratom shot products tested between approximately 15.7% and 16.15% ethanol and were treated as alcoholic beverages under Kansas law, leading to enforcement actions and product seizures.
Read the full investigation →

These findings raise questions about how this product category is classified across states. Products containing ethanol at these levels may fall under state alcohol regulations depending on classification and use. Our compiled lab reports document the same pattern across multiple brands and batches.

Use this letter to request review from your state ABC board

Copy the text below, then click your state’s email or form link. The subject line and body are pre-written. Just add your name and city.

Personalize your message for your state when possible.

Subject: Request for Review – Ethanol Content in Retail Kratom Extract Products
Dear [Agency Name / Alcohol Control Division],
I am writing to request your agency’s review of certain kratom-derived liquid products currently being sold in retail settings, including convenience stores, smoke shops, and gas stations.
Independent laboratory testing of multiple commercially available kratom extract products has identified ethanol at levels significantly exceeding United States Pharmacopeia (USP <467>) residual solvent limits for ingestible products (5,000 ppm). In several cases, ethanol concentrations were measured well above this threshold, and the products were designated as “fail” under residual solvent testing.
In addition to these laboratory findings, a recent investigation by the Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control Division found that certain kratom “shot” products contained alcohol concentrations between approximately 15.7% and 16.15% ethanol and were therefore treated as alcoholic beverages under Kansas law, leading to enforcement actions.
For reference, the investigation can be viewed here:
https://www.kctv5.com/2026/03/13/kansas-kratom-bottles-secretly-contained-illegal-alcohol-investigation-finds/?outputType=amp
These products are marketed as liquid botanical extracts intended for oral consumption and are often sold without alcohol labeling, age restrictions, or apparent alcohol-related licensing.
Given these findings, I am seeking clarification on the following:
- Whether products of this type, containing measurable ethanol at these levels, fall under your agency’s definition of an alcoholic beverage or regulated alcohol-containing product;
- Whether the retail sale of such products without alcohol-specific licensing, labeling, or taxation is consistent with state law;
- Whether your agency is aware of this product category and has issued guidance or taken enforcement action related to it.
For your reference, I have attached a compilation of third-party laboratory reports documenting ethanol content in these products.
This request is submitted for informational and public health awareness purposes. I appreciate any guidance your office can provide regarding how these products are classified and regulated within your jurisdiction.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[City, State]
[Your Email Address]

Contact Your State Alcohol Board

Click the email address or form link. The subject and body will be pre-filled for email links. For web forms, open the link and paste the template manually.

For states with web forms, click the link and paste the email template into the message field. Attach Extractswithalcohol.pdf if possible.

Why this matters

Unlabeled ethanol in kratom extracts raises legitimate questions for state alcohol regulators: classification, labeling, licensing, and consumer protection. The Kansas ABC has already treated certain products as alcoholic beverages. We encourage you to request that your state alcohol board review how these products are classified under existing laws. Download the lab reports, use the letter, and submit a request for guidance.

Download Lab Reports (PDF)