If you’ve ever grabbed a pack of RAW rolling papers, chances are you’ve noticed the bold claims printed on the packaging—”natural hemp gum,” “unrefined,” and even a nod to a charitable foundation. But now, everything is changing.
A recent federal court ruling has turned the spotlight on the popular brand, and the impact could be felt in smoke shops nationwide.
Court Upholds Nationwide Injunction Against RAW
On April 25, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit upheld a sweeping nationwide injunction on the packaging used by RAW, the well-known rolling paper company owned by HBI International.
The case was originally filed in Illinois by Republic Brands, which owns competing brand OCB. HBI tried to have the ruling apply only within Illinois, but the court denied the request—making this a nationwide decision with serious consequences for the brand.
False Claims or Clever Marketing? The Controversy Explained
At the heart of the legal battle are claims made on RAW’s packaging—statements that Republic Brands alleges are misleading or outright false. Among the most contentious?
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References to a “RAW Foundation,” which Republic says doesn’t actually exist.
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Descriptions like “unrefined” and made with “natural hemp gum,” which the court found difficult or impossible to verify.
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The bold claim that RAW’s papers are the first and only organic hemp papers—a title that Republic calls misleading marketing.
While some of these statements may not be definitively proven false, RAW has agreed to remove them from all product packaging going forward.
Did RAW Really Come from Spain?
Another major claim under scrutiny was RAW’s long-touted origin story—that its papers are produced in Alcoy, Spain, a city famous for its paper-making heritage.
Turns out, this claim didn’t hold up in court. According to CSP Daily News, the Alcoy origin was proven false, making it the only statement in the case definitively debunked.
What’s Next for RAW Fans?
Although RAW hasn’t admitted to wrongdoing (except for the Alcoy claim), it has agreed to update its packaging across the U.S. That means the next pack you buy might look a little different—without the claims about being unrefined, Spanish-made, or charity-connected.
This court case is a major moment not just for RAW, but for the entire rolling paper industry, setting a precedent for how brands can market natural or eco-friendly claims.
What Do You Think?
Have you noticed the changes in RAW’s packaging? Do these claims affect how you view your favorite rolling paper brand? Let us know in the comments—or share this with someone who’s loyal to RAW. The story behind your smoke might be more complicated than you thought.