ROCHESTER — The hemp-derived THC industry got smacked this week and the punch came from the most unlikely of places.

Tucked in the deal to re-open the federal government was a provision business owners say effectively ends the state’s THC edibles and drinks industry. The provision put a cap of 0.4 milligrams of THC per container for hemp products.

It means the industry’s death knell, experts say. Most intoxicating THC drinks and edibles sold in Minnesota contain a far higher amount — at least 2 mg of THC. In Minnesota, the market has grown to 5,000 licensed retailers with more than $200 million in annual revenue.

“This change is an existential threat to Minnesota’s nation-leading THC hemp drink industry,” said Sens. Scott Dibble and Lindsey Port, authors of the state’s cannabis legislat

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