The agency declared in October that food products containing even trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol or THC -- the psychoactive chemical found in marijuana and sometimes in hemp -- were banned under the Controlled Substances Act.

The DEA halted production and distribution of all goods containing THC and intended for human consumption. The products were to be destroyed or removed from the United States by March 18.

But the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said late Thursday the government could not enforce the rule until the court decides on challenges to it. The appeals court is set to hear arguments on the case April 8.

Hemp is used in many food products including energy bars, waffles, tortilla chips, milk-free cheese, veggie burgers, salad oil and bread. Hemp fibers are used in paper, clothing and other products, and hemp oil is found in body-care products such as soap and cosmetics.

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