Cannabis News
Legal Cannabis is More Expensive But Is Lab-Tested and Safe, NOT!
According to the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED), state investigators have uncovered numerous instances of marijuana product adulteration by businesses attempting to manipulate contaminant testing. Since the commencement of recreational marijuana sales in Colorado, contamination from mold or illegal pesticides has persisted as a significant issue.
As reported by MJ BIZ, in 2021, the MED approved decontamination and remediation methods for failed marijuana batches; however, these approaches can be expensive and do not guarantee the successful salvage of the harvests.
In a memo dated June 2, the MED cautioned business owners about an imminent public health hazard resulting from illicit practices aimed at circumventing Colorado’s testing protocols.
The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) has identified numerous instances where Regulated Marijuana Businesses have engaged in the adulteration of Test Batches to pass required testing. This has resulted in the imposition of administrative actions, penalties, and, in some instances, Health and Safety Advisories. The memo emphasizes that adulterating or altering Test Batches poses a significant public safety concern as they no longer accurately represent the Harvest or Production Batch they were extracted from.
This year alone, the MED has issued thirteen marijuana recalls, all due to the presence of microbial, mold, and yeast. However, most recall notices also mentioned businesses that had submitted marijuana “improperly for testing” or “not by” MED regulations.
While ultra-violet light and ozone machines are approved remediation techniques utilized to eliminate mold from an entire batch, these practices are widely accepted in today’s marijuana industry. Nevertheless, the MED reveals that certain growers, aware that their plants will fail to test, have resorted to falsifying testing samples to evade the financial consequences of remediation, retesting, or destroying the harvest.
During state rulemaking hearings and disciplinary settlements, reports have emerged regarding cultivations employing radon machines, microwaving marijuana flowers, and manipulating samples with hydrogen peroxide. In 2022, representatives from the Colorado Attorney General’s Office alerted members of the marijuana industry about a rising number of contamination cases that could potentially have adverse health effects on dispensary shoppers.
In their recent memo, the leadership of the Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) cautioned business owners that any evidence of “willful or deliberate” adulteration or alteration of marijuana testing samples could lead to severe consequences. These include license suspension or revocation, substantial fines amounting to six figures, and even the possibility of being charged with a class two misdemeanor for endangering public safety.
It is worth noting that in the past, the MED has not enforced such strict measures as it does now.
Details of An Adulteration Settlement
State regulators have recently disclosed the settlement details involving Bonsai Cultivation, almost four years after one of the largest marijuana recalls in Colorado’s history. The settlement outlines various issues, including references to moldy marijuana samples, attempts to cover up product adulteration, and substantial fines imposed on the company to continue its operations.
On October 14, 2019, the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) announced that plant samples obtained from Bonsai Cultivation had failed mold and yeast testing. Consequently, a recall was initiated, affecting many Bonsai products such as flowers, shakes, pre-rolls, and extractions. This recall impacted up to 144 dispensaries and eleven extraction facilities across the state, making it one of the most extensive recalls in Colorado’s history at that time. However, the recall itself was just the beginning, per the terms outlined in the agreement between Bonsai and the state licensing authority.
Further investigation into the cultivation practices of Bonsai revealed that the company had been manipulating marijuana samples to achieve process validation. According to officials from the Denver licensing authority, Bonsai had been employing hydrogen peroxide to cover flowers, shake, or trim and treating them with a UV light and ozone machine to eliminate mold or yeast. It is important to note that while UV light and ozone machines are now accepted for mold remediation in Colorado, it was not permitted until 2021. Furthermore, their usage must be appropriately documented and approved by the Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED).
During the inquiry conducted by Denver Health investigators, Roger Schaefer, the general manager of Bonsai, admitted that the 86 testing samples treated with peroxide and machine remediation had been produced on a single day in 2019. Additionally, Bonsai’s CEO, Thomas Stevenson, acknowledged his awareness of the impurity of the production process.
Despite resurfacing in dispensaries across Colorado soon after the 2019 recall, Bonsai Cultivation, and state licensing officials settled the alleged infractions in February. The settlement, disclosed by the Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) in March, stipulates that Bonsai had to successfully pass a sampling process approved by the state to maintain its operations. Additionally, the company was required to pay a $20,000 fine to the state. However, this was only one penalty Bonsai had to endure to continue its business activities.
As per a settlement reached in 2020 with Excise & Licenses, Bonsai had to pay a $150,000 fine to the City of Denver for the same violations. Furthermore, its license was placed on probation for two years. Roger Schaefer, the general manager of Bonsai, was permitted to remain an employee as long as his responsibilities did not involve marijuana testing, data tracking, compliance and management tracking, product curing, and testing submissions, according to the terms of that settlement. Throughout this process, Bonsai was allowed to continue its operations.
Marijuana’s Mold Problem
Since the initiation of recreational marijuana sales in Colorado, the issue of marijuana contamination, whether due to mold or illegal pesticides, has persisted. The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE) took the lead in inspecting and penalizing non-compliant cultivations 2014. In 2018, it initiated a comprehensive evaluation of dispensary flowers throughout the city.
An investigation conducted by Westword, analyzing city health inspection reports, uncovered that approximately 80 percent of surveyed dispensaries, during the 2018 assessment, carried marijuana that would have failed the state’s mold testing. During that time, the Marijuana Industry Group argued that the testing standards set by the state were excessively stringent, a sentiment that some marijuana growers still echo. In 2020, the DDPHE discontinued its inspections of marijuana businesses, transferring the responsibility to the Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED). The DDPHE still needs to release the final report for its 2018 assessment.
Based on the Marijuana Enforcement Division’s (MED) latest statewide market update, it was found that approximately 15 percent of marijuana flower, shake, and trim failed microbial testing in 2020.
State regulators approved marijuana remediation techniques in 2021, and ozone machines emerged as a popular choice among approved methods. However, it is worth noting that growers and extractors are not obligated to inform consumers about remediation on packaging. Additionally, using peroxide, a chemical antiseptic, is not an approved remediation method.
Despite implementing new remediation regulations, full compliance among growers still needs improvement. The Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) has issued more than twenty marijuana recalls since 2022, with a significant portion linked to issues such as mold, yeast, and improper testing procedures.
Conclusion
The issue of marijuana contamination in Colorado, particularly from mold or illegal pesticides, continues to be a significant concern. The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) has uncovered numerous instances of businesses attempting to manipulate contaminant testing, which poses a serious public safety risk. While the MED has approved decontamination and remediation methods for failed marijuana batches, these approaches are expensive and not guaranteed to salvage the harvests.
The MED has emphasized the severe consequences, including license suspension or revocation, substantial fines, and potential criminal charges for willful adulteration or alteration of marijuana testing samples. Despite efforts to address the problem, marijuana recalls due to contamination persist, highlighting the need for improved compliance among growers and stricter enforcement measures.
LAB TESTS IN CANNABIS, READ ON…
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
-
From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
-
Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
-
As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
-
Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
-
Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
-
Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
-
Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
-
Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
-
FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
-
Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
-
Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
Cannabis News
New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements
As the popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) continues to rise, many pet owners are exploring its potential benefits for their furry companions. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and is known for its therapeutic properties, which may help alleviate anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other health issues in dogs. However, when considering CBD treats for your dog, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients that go into these products. This article will delve into the essential ingredients to look for in CBD treats, their benefits, potential risks, and how to choose the right product for your canine friend.
Understanding CBD and Its Benefits for Dogs
Before we dive into the ingredients, it’s important to understand what CBD is and how it can benefit dogs. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can produce a “high,” CBD does not have intoxicating effects. Instead, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in both humans and animals, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs
-
Anxiety Relief: Many dogs experience anxiety due to various factors such as loud noises, separation from their owners, or changes in their environment. CBD may help reduce anxiety levels by promoting a sense of calm.
Choosing the Right CBD Treats
When selecting CBD treats for your dog, it’s essential to look beyond just the CBD content. The overall quality of the treat is equally important. Here are some key ingredients you should be aware of:
1. High-Quality CBD Oil
The foundation of any good CBD treat is the quality of the CBD oil used. Look for treats that contain:
-
Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum products contain all cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (below 0.3% as per legal standards). Broad-spectrum products contain multiple cannabinoids but no THC. Both types can provide an “entourage effect,” enhancing the therapeutic benefits.
2. Natural Ingredients
Just like human food, the ingredients in your dog’s treats matter significantly. Look for treats made with natural ingredients rather than artificial additives or preservatives. Here are some beneficial components:
Whole grains like oat flour or brown rice flour provide essential nutrients and fiber that support digestive health. They are also a good source of energy for active dogs.
Healthy fats are vital for maintaining your dog’s coat and skin health. Ingredients like coconut oil or peanut butter not only enhance flavor but also provide beneficial fatty acids that support overall well-being.
Incorporating fruits and vegetables into your dog’s treats can boost their nutritional value:
To make treats more appealing without resorting to artificial flavors, look for natural flavorings like chicken broth or carob (a chocolate substitute safe for dogs). These ingredients can enhance taste while keeping the treat healthy.
3. Functional Ingredients
Some treats may include additional functional ingredients designed to address specific health concerns:
These compounds are often included in joint support treats to help maintain joint health and mobility, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis.
Probiotics can promote gut health by supporting a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog’s digestive system.
Certain herbs like chamomile or ginger may offer calming effects or aid digestion. Always ensure these herbs are safe for canine consumption before choosing treats containing them.
Ingredients to Avoid
While there are many beneficial ingredients to seek out, it’s equally important to know which ones to avoid:
1. Artificial Additives
Many commercial pet treats contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. These additives may lead to allergic reactions or other health issues over time.
2. High Sugar Content
Just like humans, dogs do not need excessive sugar in their diets. Treats high in sugar can lead to obesity and dental problems.
3. Low-Quality Fillers
Avoid treats with low-quality fillers such as corn syrup or by-products that do not provide any nutritional value.
Always ensure that any CBD product you choose contains less than 0.3% THC to avoid any psychoactive effects on your dog.
How to Introduce CBD Treats Safely
When introducing any new treat into your dog’s diet—especially one containing CBD—it’s essential to do so gradually:
-
Start Small: Begin with a small amount of the treat to see how your dog reacts.
-
Monitor Your Dog: Observe your dog for any adverse reactions such as changes in behavior or gastrointestinal upset.
-
Adjust Dosage as Needed: Depending on your dog’s size and needs, you may need to adjust the dosage over time.
-
Consult Your Veterinarian: Before starting any new supplement regimen, including CBD treats, consult with your veterinarian—especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is taking other medications.
Conclusion
CBD treats can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet when chosen carefully with attention to ingredient quality and safety. By understanding what goes into these treats—such as high-quality CBD oil, natural ingredients, functional additives—and knowing what to avoid, you can make informed decisions that support your dog’s health and well-being.
Always prioritize transparency from manufacturers regarding ingredient sourcing and product testing; this will ensure you’re providing your furry friend with safe and effective options tailored to their needs. With proper research and guidance from a veterinarian, you can confidently explore the potential benefits of CBD treats for your beloved pet while ensuring they enjoy a tasty snack that’s good for them too!
CBD OIL FOR DOGS, READ ON…
Get some rest on Modified Grapes—November’s Leafly HighLight
Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding Dependence, Risks, and Safe Usage
New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements
The CBD Dog Treat Guide
Trippin’ Golf Balls – Can Magic Mushrooms Help Your Golf Game?
Australian Broadcasting Corp Alleges Military Veterans Have Been Targeted By Medicinal Cannabis Companies Via Social Media & Offered Free “Product”
Medical Marijuana Passed in 106 out of 106 Counties and Cities in What State? A. Florida B. Kentucky C. Ohio D. North Dakota
Green Dragon founders fired up to “get back to where we were” with new joint
Trump 2.0 Cannabis Reform? – What to Expect When Republicans Control Washington
Two men convicted in robbery-murder of marijuana dispensary employee in Santa Ana
Distressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
United States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
What you Need to Know
Drug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
NCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
It has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
Cannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
A new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse
Your Go-To Source for Cannabis Logos and Designs
City Of Oakland Issues RFP For Employee Training Programs
-
Cannabis News2 years agoDistressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
-
One-Hit Wonders2 years agoUnited States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
-
Cannabis 1012 years agoWhat you Need to Know
-
drug testing11 months agoDrug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
-
Education2 years agoNCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
-
Cannabis2 years agoIt has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
-
Marijuana Business Daily2 years agoCannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
-
California2 years agoA new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse