News · 2026-05-12
MNG Brands Backs Science-Based Kratom Regulation, Welcomes Trump's Endorsement of Natural Leaf
Source: PR Newswire
Why it matters
One of the largest kratom retail chains in the U.S. is publicly aligning with Trump's May 10 statement in support of natural kratom, while advocating for a regulatory framework that draws a hard line between natural leaf and synthetic 7-OH concentrates.
The big picture
The kratom industry is deeply divided between advocates for natural leaf and those defending concentrated 7-OH products. CBD Kratom parent company MNG Brands operates over 50 retail locations across major U.S. markets and has long championed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA). Their statement follows President Trump's Oval Office comments on May 10, 2026, where he expressed interest in approving "some forms" of kratom, signaling a potential shift in federal policy.
Key findings
- MNG Brands supports regulatory frameworks that distinguish natural kratom from highly concentrated or synthetic 7-OH derivatives.
- President Trump stated on May 10 that his administration was looking "very seriously at natural 7-OH and getting that approved."
- FDA Commissioner Marty Makary clarified in July 2025 that the federal crackdown targets synthetic 7-OH concentrates, not traditional kratom leaf.
- MNG Brands advocates for KCPA-style laws, now active in 16 states, covering age verification, product testing, labeling transparency, and bans on adulterated products.
- The company's DER kratom beverage was co-developed with actor Nico Tortorella as an intentional, low-dose adult-use product.
What they say
"MNG Brands has long supported regulatory frameworks that protect consumers, prevent youth access, and create accountability within the industry," said Dafna Revah, Chief Strategy Officer of MNG Brands.
Bottom line
**MNG Brands, one of the largest kratom retailers in the U.S., is positioning itself as a model for responsible industry self-regulation as federal policy may be shifting toward selective approval of natural kratom products.**