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Is All Weed Tainted? – Over 90% of Black Market Weed Tests Positive for Pesticides While Legal Weed Cheats on Lab Results

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pesticides on cannabis plants

You may remember an article posted on Cannabis.net called, “Legal Cannabis is More Expensive But It is Lab-Tested and Safe, NOT!”, where Colorado has seen a large amount of attempted cheating and work-arounds for cannabis samples to get approved as safe from their cannabis testing lab reports.  The premise highlights how everyone, including legal weed growers that have to have products tested, are trying to juice their already thin profits by using pesticides and other banned substances to ehance grow results.

Is the illicit market doing the same?

A recent study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research has unveiled alarming evidence regarding the presence of pesticides in Canadian cannabis, drawing a stark contrast between the illegal and legal markets, or is there such a start contrast after all?  Legal cannabis has much thinner margins due to the heavy burden of regulation and taxation, so using chemicals to enhance yield and create more profit is always a temptation.  If you can get around lab results and testing, the temptation may be just too great not to do it.

 

In a study titled “Comparing Pesticide Levels in Illicit and Licensed Canadian Cannabis Samples Using an Extensive 327-Pesticide Multiresidue Method,” researchers analyzed 36 cannabis samples procured from licensed dispensaries and 24 samples confiscated from illegal operations, subsequently submitted to Health Canada for laboratory testing in 2021.

 

The researchers subjected these samples to comprehensive testing for 327 distinct pesticides, revealing a troubling revelation. It was found that a significant number of the illicit cannabis samples harbored harmful chemical residues. The research elucidated, “Pesticide residues were identified in a staggering 92% of illicit cannabis inflorescence samples from Canada, encompassing 23 distinct pesticide active ingredients.” Notably, four particular pesticides and their synergists—myclobutanil, paclobutrazol, piperonyl butoxide, and pyrethrins—were detected at a remarkably high frequency, occurring eight to 17 times within the total of 24 illicit samples studied.

 

Furthermore, it was observed that a single illegal sample contained nine distinct pesticide ingredients. On average, the illicit samples contained 3.7 different pesticides, with a substantial 87% of them exhibiting the presence of multiple pesticides.

 

Pesticide Presence: A Stark Contrast Between Legal and Illegal Samples

 

The researchers presented a table detailing the presence of pesticides in both licensed and illicit samples. Interestingly, only a meager 6% of the licensed samples tested positive for pesticides, and these instances were limited to dichlobenil and myclobutanil.  The positive test number appears much higher in the US, as the Colorado testing story points out.

 

The study’s primary objective, as elucidated by the researchers, was to enhance and streamline their existing method for assessing pesticides in cannabis inflorescence. The process entailed homogenizing the cannabis flower in a laboratory blender, followed by its combination with the solvent acetonitrile. Subsequently, the mixture underwent extraction using a Geno-Grinder, followed by centrifugation and additional steps to yield an inflorescence sample housed within a vial, ready for testing. The study proudly unveiled this novel approach: “This study introduces an innovative, streamlined method for the comprehensive detection of 327 pesticides in cannabis inflorescence through gas chromatography—triple quadruple mass spectroscopy and liquid chromatography—triple quadruple mass spectroscopy.”

 

It’s noteworthy that studies of this nature are still relatively uncommon. The study concluded with the statement, “To the best of our knowledge, this research represents the sole extensive analysis of pesticide residues comparing the licensed and illicit cannabis markets in a nationwide jurisdiction where cannabis has been legalized. While our study sample size is modest, our findings reinforce the Government of Canada’s advisory regarding the potential risks associated with consuming illegal cannabis products, including contaminants such as pesticides and elevated levels of bacteria, lead, and arsenic.”

 

This study’s findings underscore the marked disparity between the safety of legal cannabis products and the hazards associated with illicit cannabis, serving as a testament to the effectiveness of Canada’s regulated cannabis industry.

 

In a related context, back in October 2019, a nonprofit organization known as Beyond Pesticides penned a letter to Congress, urging representatives to safeguard the public from the perils of pesticides in cannabis. Their message emphasized that pesticide use on marijuana was unlawful, given that marijuana lacked legal status as an agricultural crop under pertinent federal law (Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act). Furthermore, they pointed out that the EPA had not assessed the safety of any pesticides for use on marijuana plants, and there were no established allowances, tolerances, or exemptions for pesticide residues on cannabis. In the absence of federal regulations governing pesticides in cannabis production, the use of unregistered pesticides was deemed illegal.

 

Advocating for Cannabis Safety: Beyond Pesticides’ Precautionary Approach”

 

Beyond Pesticides has recently published an article addressing historical and contemporary pesticide concerns associated with cannabis. In this piece, they advocate for a precautionary approach to be adopted by states to safeguard consumers. The organization emphasizes the need for states to establish regulations promoting sustainable production practices, ensuring public health and environment protection. Beyond Pesticides strongly recommends a comprehensive, systems-level approach to cannabis production, requiring adherence to national organic standards.

 

In September 2019, a significant public health crisis unfolded when approximately 1,000 individuals fell ill, and 18 people tragically lost their lives due to a then-unknown vaping-related illness. Eventually, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified Vitamin E Acetate as the culprit responsible for this epidemic, known as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product-use-associated lung injury). While Vitamin E Acetate is generally considered safe for oral or topical use, inhaling it can lead to the coating of lung tissues and subsequent respiratory issues, among other concerns. This crisis raised substantial awareness about the ingredients used in inhaled products, both cannabis and non-cannabis related.

 

Cannabis products have also faced recalls in the past due to unsafe levels of mold. In November 2022, Colorado regulators issued a safety advisory regarding contaminated product batches. In January of the same year, the Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board issued a public safety announcement regarding the unapproved use of a pesticide called Ethephon on cannabis products. The affected items encompassed an estimated 117 edibles, 41 pre-rolls, and more than 200 concentrates, all of which were sold at 104 dispensaries.

 

Further, in February of this year, Vermont legislators initiated a recall of cannabis grown with Eagle 20, which reportedly caused adverse effects such as headaches and nausea in consumers.

 

As policies pertaining to pesticides continue to evolve, these instances underscore the paramount importance of educating the public about pesticides and other substances utilized in the cultivation and production of cannabis products. It is advisable to seek a certification of analysis from a reputable cannabis company or business to ensure that the product has undergone proper testing and meets safety standards.

 

Bottom Line

 

Everyone in the marijuana industry, both legal and illicit, is trying to improve margins and boost profits. One easy way to do it is to use presticides to increase plant yields and grow volume. Both the legal and illegal growers are testing the limits on what they can get away with and still sell a “safe” product.  This study’s unsettling revelations of pervasive pesticide contamination in illegal cannabis samples, starkly contrasting with the lower incidences in legal products, emphasize the critical importance of rigorous regulation and testing in the cannabis industry. Beyond Pesticides’ call for a precautionary approach and stringent adherence to national organic standards underscores the need for comprehensive safeguards to protect consumers and the environment. Recent crises, such as the EVALI outbreak and recalls due to mold and unsafe pesticide use, further highlight the urgency of educating the public about cannabis product safety. As policy and safety measures continue to evolve, consumers are urged to seek certifications of analysis from reputable cannabis sources to ensure the products they use meet stringent safety standards.

 

IS LEGAL WEED SAFE, READ ON…

CHEATING ON CANNABIS LAB RESULTS

IS LEGAL AND TESTED CANNABIS SAFE? COLORADO SAYS NO!



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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It

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trump on marijuana reform

In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.

 

The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation

 

Federal vs. State Laws

Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.

 

Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry

 

Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:

  • Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.

  • Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.

  • Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.

 

Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform

 

Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.

 

Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.

 

The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

 

Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.

 

Current Regulatory Challenges

 

The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:

 

  • Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.

  • Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.

  • Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.

 

Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation

 

Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.

 

In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:

 

1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.

2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.

3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.

 

Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.

 

Implications of Proposed Reforms

 

Economic Impact

 

The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:

 

  • Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.

  • Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.

  • Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.

 

Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.

 

Social Justice Considerations

 

Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:

 

  • Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.

  • Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.

 

Political Landscape

 

The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.

 

Conclusion

 

Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.

 

TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…

TRUMP ON MARIJUANA REFORM

TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?

 



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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em

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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!

Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:

  1. Panelists:
    • Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
    • Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
    • Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
  2. Election Results Overview:
    • Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
    • Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
    • Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
  3. Federal and State-Level Developments:
    • Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
    • Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
  4. Federal Policy Implications:
    • Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
    • Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
  5. International and Domestic Trade:
    • Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
    • Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
  6. Economic and Industry Impact:
    • Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
    • Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
  7. Future Outlook:
    • The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
    • State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.

Watch the replay!



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I Had Just One Puff

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one puff of a joint a drug test

“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.

 

The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.

 

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.

 

Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.

 

THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.

 

THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.

 

The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.

 

The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.

 

Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests

 

Urine Tests

Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.

 

Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:

 

– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days

– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days

– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days

– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days

 

Blood Tests

Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.

 

Saliva Tests

THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.

 

Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.

 

In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.

 

Hair Tests

Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.

 

Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.

 

Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention

 

The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.

 

Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:

 

– Dosage: How much you consume

– Frequency: How often you use cannabis

– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual

– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time

 

Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.

 

How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?

 

When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.

 

The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:

 

– Altered senses, including perception of time

– Mood changes

– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving

– Impaired memory

 

Other short-term effects can include:

– Anxiety and confusion

– Decreased coordination

– Dry mouth and eyes

– Nausea or lightheadedness

– Trouble focusing

– Increased appetite

– Rapid heart rate

– Restlessness and sleepiness

 

In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.

 

Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:

 

– Cognitive issues like memory loss

– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke

– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections

– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety

 

Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.

 

Duration of Effects

Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.

 

Bottom Line

The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.

 

PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..

how long does weed stay in your urine

HOW LONG DOES WEED STAY IN YOUR URINE FOR A DRUG TEST?



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