Hard Age Gate + Age Verification (Removed Features)

Feature Update – 'Hard Age Gate' and 'Age Verification' features have been sunsetted (July 2025)

Buddi Update:

As of July 2025, Buddi has sunsetted the 'Hard Age Gate' and 'Age Verification' features in the Online Menu Configuration page. These options are no longer available to retailers. This change reflects shifting regulatory requirements and low adoption across the platform.

Previously, these features required customers to create a profile, undergo manual age verification by store staff, and log into their verified profile to view the full menu. That workflow is no longer supported.

If you were using this feature and believe you still need a solution for controlled menu access, please contact support@buddi.io to discuss alternative options.

What Was the Hard Age Gate?

Historical Reference

The Hard Age Gate was primarily developed for Alberta retailers to comply with a former AGLC policy that restricted access to full product content until users were formally verified by store staff. This feature was disabled by default but could be enabled via the Admin Portal > Store Settings > Online Menu: Configuration.

It was distinct from the Soft Age Gate, which remains mandatory on all cannabis websites. The Soft Age Gate allows users to self-attest their age before viewing content—no profile creation or staff approval required. This is typically managed within your website builder platform.

Regulatory Update:
As of October 13, 2023, the AGLC no longer requires a Hard Age Gate. A Soft Age Gate is now considered sufficient for age verification on Alberta-based cannabis websites.