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The UK’s Cannabis Market is Worth Over $3.3 Billion a Year, Will Cancer Headlines Push Legalization Forward in England?

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As NPR reported, Catherine, Princess of Wales, has cancer, she announced in a video message released by Kensington Palace on Friday, and is in the early stages of chemotherapy. In the video, the former Kate Middleton, 42, said the diagnosis was a “huge shock after an incredibly tough couple of months.”

The cancer was found during testing done after she successfully underwent major abdominal surgery in January, Kate said. She did not specify the type of cancer or its stage.

Would legal cannabis, or illciit cannabis be part of Kate’s possible treatment, depending on what cancer she has and at what stage the cancer is at?  Does England have legal medical marijuana that has her cancer as a qualifing condition?  If not, could Kate tap the illicit market for cannabis in England?  A slipery slope for sure being part of the Royal Family, no?

The illegal cannabis market in Britain is now estimated to be worth £2.6 billion annually, posing a significant challenge for authorities due to the growing interest in its potential for pain relief. Despite being classified as a class-B illegal substance, the Institute of Economic Affairs’ market estimate underscores the substantial size of this underground trade.

 

According to findings from medical clinic Mamedica, annually, three million Britons access the illicit cannabis market, with over 600,000 purchasing it for self-medication purposes. Moreover, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly exploring cannabis as a treatment option for health conditions that have proven resistant to traditional medications, according to the firm’s analysis.

 

Recent reports from Mamedica indicate that nearly eight million chronic pain sufferers have unsuccessfully tried up to three different medications, spurring interest in medicinal cannabis. Globally, the medical cannabis market is presently valued at $13 billion, with projections indicating it could surge to over $57 billion by 2028.

 

Despite the increasing acknowledgment of cannabis’s therapeutic advantages, constraints within the UK’s public health services prevent general practitioners—73% of whom are willing to prescribe cannabis—from doing so, according to Mamedica. Jon Robson, Mamedica’s CEO, underscores the importance of raising awareness and improving accessibility to legal, regulated medical cannabis as pivotal steps toward transitioning users away from the illicit market, potentially fostering growth in this sector.

 

Since the UK government legalized medical cannabis in 2018, progress has been sluggish, with only 1,000 patients receiving licensed prescriptions compared to over 20,000 through private prescriptions. The privatization of the sector is identified as a driving force. Yet, the absence of licensed cannabis-based medicinal products remains a significant barrier.

 

Robson emphasizes the significance of customer experience and satisfaction in expanding the medical cannabis industry, highlighting notable quality challenges, cost, service, and supply chain challenges. He further notes that the intricate landscape of cannabis in the UK reflects a clash between long standing legal restrictions and a shifting perception toward its medical utility. This is coupled with the increasing accessibility and understanding of cannabis-based treatments.

The Current Legal Landscape

The ongoing discussion on cannabis legalization in the UK is gaining momentum, akin to the persistent growth of the weed plant. While nations worldwide are increasingly recognizing the advantages of legalized cannabis, the UK has been somewhat cautious, although there are signs of change.

 

Presently, cannabis in the UK is categorized as a Class B drug according to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. However, there’s a glimpse of advancement. Since November 2018, specialist doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis-based medicines in the United Kingdom legally.

 

Nevertheless, the question persists for many: “Is cannabis legal in the UK?” The straightforward answer? No, not for recreational purposes. Nonetheless, Britain may not be far behind as global attitudes toward cannabis continue to evolve.

Decriminalisation Efforts, Public Opinion, and Economic Impact

In recent times, there has been a significant movement towards decriminalization. London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has taken steps to decriminalize drugs in the capital, sparking both praise and criticism.

 

Furthermore, public support for legalizing cannabis is on the rise, with reports suggesting that only 32% of the UK population opposes the idea. This shift in public opinion begs the question: “Will cannabis become legal in the UK soon?

 

Apart from the social and health considerations, there’s a compelling economic incentive. Following the example of our German counterparts, a study estimated that legalizing cannabis could bolster the German economy by approximately £4bn annually and generate 27,000 new jobs.

 

Could the UK experience similar benefits? It’s plausible, given the burgeoning cannabis market already in existence.

Predicting Cannabis Legalisation in the UK

The global trend towards cannabis legalization, evident in various countries, including moves toward decriminalization and full legalization, prompts speculation about when cannabis might be fully legalized in the UK. Several factors contribute to this discussion:

  1. Global Trends: Observing countries like Canada and Uruguay, which have legalized recreational cannabis, can inform the UK’s decision-making process. Positive outcomes in these nations could influence UK policymakers.

  2. Medical Cannabis: The UK’s allowance for medical purposes in November 2018 indicates a changing perspective on the plant’s therapeutic potential.

  3. Public Opinion: Only 32% of UK residents oppose legal cannabis, according to a 2019 YouGov survey. However, increasing public support may pressure political parties to reconsider their stance over time.

  4. Economic Benefits: Countries like Germany, experiencing significant financial benefits from cannabis legalization, could prompt the UK to consider similar advantages, particularly amidst post-COVID-19 economic recovery efforts.

  5. Political Climate: The stance of political parties, especially those gaining support from younger and BIPOC voters, could influence the pace of cannabis legalization. A party advocating for legalization could accelerate the process if it gains prominence or forms a government.

 

Considering these factors, while pinpointing an exact timeline is challenging, a cautious estimate suggests that the UK could witness significant moves towards cannabis decriminalization or legalization within the next 5-10 years. This may begin with broader decriminalization efforts followed by regulated recreational use, similar to approaches in other countries.

 

However, predicting political outcomes, especially on contentious issues, entails uncertainty. Rapid changes could occur due to unforeseen events, shifts in public opinion, or evolving global trends.

The Changing Perception of Cannabis

Several factors are influencing the discourse surrounding cannabis legalization in the UK. Firstly, decriminalization is viewed as a potential avenue for addressing racial and social disparities. A recent analysis of police data by House of Commons researchers has indicated a decline in cannabis possession offenses. However, it has also revealed persistent racial biases in arrests and prosecutions, highlighting the need for reform in this area.

 

Additionally, the increasing recognition of the medical benefits of cannabis is shaping the conversation. Despite the legal complexities, products such as CBD flowers and hash are already widely available in the UK, underscoring the plant’s therapeutic potential and driving interest in further exploration and regulation.

 

Political platforms also play a role, with parties like Labour showcasing progressive stances on drug policies in their manifestos. This indicates a potential shift towards more liberal approaches to cannabis and drug regulation within the political landscape.

 

Looking ahead, the trajectory suggests that it’s not a matter of if but when the UK will legalize cannabis. Whether motivated by potential economic gains, societal advantages, or evolving public opinion, the momentum for legalizing cannabis in the UK is stronger than ever.

 

However, the road to full legalization will be marked by debates, research, and public discourse. Those curious about the current status of cannabis in the UK or pondering its legal status will need to monitor developments, anticipating potential shifts and hoping for progress towards a more permissive stance on cannabis use and regulation.

 

MEDICAL MARIJUANA IN THE UK, READ ON…

UK MEDICAL MARIJUANA HEADLINES

WHY ARE 17,000 MMJ PATIENTS IN ENGLAND USING THE ILLICIT MARKET?



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How Do You Stop Lab-Shopping for the Highest THC Results?

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In a decisive move aimed at bolstering consumer safety and ensuring the integrity of cannabis products, Massachusetts regulators have mandated that all cannabis products must undergo testing at a single, licensed laboratory. This new regulation comes in response to the growing issue of “lab shopping,” where cannabis producers seek favorable testing results by sending their products to multiple laboratories. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) announced this significant regulatory change after extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, public health officials, and consumer advocates.

 

This article explores the implications of this regulation for the cannabis industry, consumers, and public health. It also examines the broader context of cannabis regulation in Massachusetts and the potential impact of this decision on the future of the state’s cannabis market.

 

Understanding Lab Shopping

 

 What is Lab Shopping?

 

Lab shopping refers to the practice where cannabis producers send their products to various testing laboratories in search of the most favorable results. Producers may choose labs based on their reputation for leniency or their history of providing positive results. This behavior can lead to significant discrepancies in product safety assessments and quality assurance.

 

The Risks Associated with Lab Shopping

 

1. Consumer Health Risks: The primary concern surrounding lab shopping is the potential risk it poses to consumer health. Inconsistent testing results mean that products containing harmful contaminants—such as pesticides, heavy metals, or mold—may be sold without proper scrutiny. This can lead to serious health issues for consumers who unknowingly purchase tainted products.

 

2. Market Integrity: Lab shopping undermines the integrity of the legal cannabis market. When consumers cannot trust that products have been tested rigorously and uniformly, it erodes confidence in legal cannabis sales and can drive customers back to illicit markets where safety standards are nonexistent.

 

3. Regulatory Challenges: For regulators like the CCC, lab shopping complicates enforcement efforts. It becomes increasingly difficult to monitor compliance when producers can easily switch labs to obtain favorable results, making it challenging to ensure that all products meet established safety standards.

 

The Regulatory Response

 

The Role of the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC)

 

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission is tasked with regulating the state’s cannabis industry. As part of its mandate, the CCC has worked diligently to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework that governs various aspects of cannabis production and sale. However, as the industry has evolved, so too have the challenges associated with ensuring product safety and quality.

 

In light of growing concerns about lab shopping and its implications for public health and safety, the CCC recognized the need for a more robust regulatory framework. After extensive discussions with industry stakeholders and public health officials, the commission concluded that a single-lab testing requirement was necessary to address these issues effectively.

 

Implementation of Single-Lab Testing

 

In late 2023, following thorough deliberation and stakeholder engagement, the CCC announced its new regulation mandating that all cannabis products must be tested by a single licensed laboratory before they can be sold to consumers. This decision aims to achieve several key objectives:

 

  • Standardize Testing Protocols: By requiring that all products be tested by a single lab, regulators can ensure that all products are subject to consistent testing standards. This uniformity is crucial for maintaining product quality and safety across the market.

 

  • Enhance Accountability: A single-lab requirement makes it easier for regulators to hold laboratories accountable for their testing practices. If discrepancies arise in testing results, it will be clear which laboratory conducted the tests, facilitating more straightforward investigations.

 

  • Improve Consumer Confidence: With consistent testing results across all products, consumers can feel more secure in their purchases. This increased confidence is vital for fostering a healthy legal cannabis market in Massachusetts.

 

 Implications of Single-Lab Testing

 

For Producers

 

1. Increased Accountability: Producers will need to establish relationships with specific laboratories and ensure that their products meet stringent quality standards before submission for testing. This shift will require producers to invest more in quality control measures throughout their production processes.

 

2. Potential Cost Implications: While single-lab testing may streamline processes for some producers, it could also lead to increased costs if producers are required to pay higher fees for comprehensive testing services. Smaller producers may find it particularly challenging to absorb these costs.

 

3. Adaptation Period: Producers will need time to adjust their operations and supply chains to comply with this new regulation. This may involve reevaluating partnerships with existing labs or investing in new quality control measures.

 

4. Impact on Product Development: The requirement for single-lab testing may also influence how producers develop new products. With fewer laboratories available for testing, producers may need to plan their product launches more carefully and allow additional time for testing processes.

 

For Laboratories

 

1. Increased Demand for Services: Licensed laboratories may experience an increase in demand as producers consolidate their testing needs with fewer facilities. This could lead to higher revenues for labs but also increased pressure on them to maintain high-quality standards amidst growing workloads.

 

2. Need for Enhanced Capabilities: Laboratories will need to ensure they have the capacity and technology necessary to handle increased volumes of samples while maintaining rigorous quality control measures. This may require investments in new equipment or hiring additional staff.

 

3. Regulatory Compliance: Laboratories will face heightened scrutiny from regulators as they become key players in ensuring product safety. They will need to demonstrate compliance with all relevant regulations and maintain transparent practices regarding their testing methodologies.

 

 For Consumers

 

1. Improved Product Safety: The primary benefit for consumers is enhanced safety assurance. With standardized testing protocols in place, consumers can trust that cannabis products have been thoroughly vetted for contaminants and potency before reaching store shelves.

 

2. Greater Transparency: As part of this regulatory shift, there may be increased transparency regarding testing results and laboratory practices. Consumers will have access to clearer information about what goes into their cannabis products, empowering them to make informed choices.

 

3. Potential Price Increases: While improved safety is paramount, there is a possibility that compliance costs could be passed on to consumers through higher prices for cannabis products. Producers may need to adjust their pricing structures in response to increased operational costs associated with single-lab testing.

 

Cannabis Regulation in Massachusetts

 

 Historical Overview

 

Massachusetts was one of the first states in New England to legalize recreational cannabis use following the passage of Question 4 in 2016. The legalization marked a significant shift in public policy and opened up a new economic sector within the state. However, as with any emerging industry, challenges quickly arose—particularly concerning product safety and quality assurance.

 

Existing Regulatory Framework

 

Prior to the introduction of single-lab testing regulations, Massachusetts had established a comprehensive regulatory framework governing various aspects of cannabis production and sale:

 

 

 

 

Despite these measures, lab shopping highlighted gaps in enforcement and compliance that necessitated further action from regulators.

 

 Industry Reactions

 

Support from Public Health Advocates

 

Public health advocates have largely welcomed the CCC’s decision to implement single-lab testing as a crucial step toward safeguarding public health by ensuring that all cannabis products meet consistent safety standards. Many believe this regulation will help prevent contaminated or substandard products from reaching consumers while bolstering trust in legal cannabis sales.

 

Dr. Emily Thompson, a public health expert at Harvard University, stated, “This regulation is essential for protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with contaminated cannabis products.”

 

Concerns from Industry Stakeholders

 

Conversely, some industry stakeholders have expressed concerns about potential drawbacks:

 

1. Operational Challenges: Smaller producers may find it difficult to navigate relationships with larger laboratories or face delays in getting their products tested due to increased demand at those facilities.

  

2. Innovation Stifling: Critics argue that requiring single-lab testing could stifle innovation within the industry by limiting producers’ options for exploring different testing methodologies or technologies offered by various labs.

 

3. Market Dynamics: There are worries that this regulation could create monopolistic tendencies within laboratory services if only a few labs dominate the market due to increased demand from producers seeking reliable test results.

 

4. Impact on Small Businesses: Small-scale cultivators might struggle more than larger companies due to limited resources and access to high-quality labs capable of meeting stringent requirements without significantly raising costs.

 

 Future Outlook

 

As Massachusetts implements this new regulation mandating single-lab testing for all cannabis products sold within its borders, it sets an important precedent that other states may consider as they navigate similar challenges within their own burgeoning cannabis markets.

 

Potential National Implications

 

The decision by Massachusetts regulators could influence national discussions around cannabis regulation as other states look toward creating frameworks that prioritize consumer safety while fostering industry growth:

 

  1. Increased Interest from Other States: States grappling with similar issues related to lab shopping may look closely at Massachusetts’ approach as they develop their own regulations.

 

  1. Collaboration Among States: As states continue legalizing recreational marijuana use across the country, there may be opportunities for collaboration on best practices regarding product safety standards and laboratory oversight.

 

  1. Federal Considerations: With ongoing discussions about federal legalization of marijuana gaining traction nationally—especially amid shifting political landscapes—regulatory models like those emerging from Massachusetts could serve as templates for future federal guidelines governing cannabis production and sale across state lines.

 

 Conclusion

 

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s mandate for single-lab testing represents a pivotal shift in evaluating cannabis products for safety and quality assurance within one of the nation’s most dynamic legal marijuana markets. By targeting the issue of lab shopping, this regulation prioritizes consumer protection, aiming to enhance public health outcomes and rebuild confidence in the safety of legalized cannabis products. While the transition poses challenges for producers adapting operational processes and laboratories scaling their capabilities, the regulation seeks to balance fostering innovation in an evolving industry with rigorous oversight mechanisms. As Massachusetts refines its regulatory framework, balancing the interests of regulators and profit-driven stakeholders, collaboration will be essential to thriving under these new guidelines. This change not only advances the state’s cannabis sector but also sets a potential standard for other states to ensure safe consumption and responsible business practices in the growing marijuana industry.

 

LAB SHOPPING FOR HIGH THC RESULTS? READ ON…

CANNABIS LAB SHOPPING FOR THC

LAB SHOPPING FOR THC RESULTS- THE DIRTY SECRET IN CANNABIS!



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Happy Holidays from The Canna Law Blog

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Wishing all of our readers, along with friends and families, the very best this holiday season.

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Festivus, or something else, we hope you can kick back and enjoy this wonderful time of the year.

The post Happy Holidays from The Canna Law Blog appeared first on Harris Sliwoski LLP.



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5 Cannabis Christmas Recipes to Try This Holiday Season at Home or the Office Party!

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Ah yes, it’s that magical time of year again when Ganja Clause slides down the chimney to visit all the good little stoners. The lights are twinkling, the fire is crackling, and the sweet aroma of cannabis-infused treats fills the air. As someone who’s spent years experimenting with cannabis cuisine, I’ve learned that the holidays present the perfect opportunity to elevate traditional recipes to new heights.

To help make your holidaze more “dazey,” I’ve crafted five festive recipes that combine seasonal favorites with our favorite herb. These dishes aren’t just about getting high – they’re about creating memorable experiences and new traditions. But before we dive in, I need to emphasize something crucial: dosing is always important, and you should NEVER give these recipes to anyone without their explicit consent. While sharing is caring, tricking someone into consuming cannabis is not only unethical but potentially illegal. Always clearly label your infused treats and keep them safely away from children and unsuspecting guests.

With those important notes out of the way, let’s get into these magical recipes that will make your holiday season extra special.

Look, we all know eggnog is a holiday staple, but why not kick it up a notch? This cannabis-infused version will have you feeling jolly in no time. Just remember – this isn’t your grandma’s recipe (unless your grandma is really cool).

What You’ll Need:

  • 4 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative if that’s your jam)

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for you plant-based folks)

  • 6 egg yolks (fresh is best, trust me)

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1 tbsp cannabis tincture or cannabis-infused syrup

The Magic Process:

  1. Start by heating your milk and cream in a saucepan. You want it hot but not boiling – we’re making eggnog, not scrambled eggs.

  2. In a separate bowl, whisk those egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until they’re well combined and looking smooth.

  3. Here’s the tricky part: slowly (and I mean SLOWLY) add the hot milk mixture to your egg mixture while whisking constantly. If you dump it all in at once, you’ll end up with sweet scrambled eggs, and nobody wants that.

  4. Pour everything back into your saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

  5. Remove from heat, stir in that nutmeg, and let it cool a bit before adding your cannabis tincture or syrup.

  6. Chill thoroughly before serving.

Pro tip: Start with a small serving – this stuff can creep up on you!

Want to elevate your holiday meal? This gravy will take your feast to new heights. It’s perfect for drowning those mashed potatoes or smothering that turkey.

The Goods:

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup cannabis butter (cannabutter)

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary work great)

The How-To:

  1. Melt your cannabutter over medium heat in a saucepan. Watch it carefully – burnt butter is not the vibe we’re going for.

  2. Whisk in the flour to create your roux. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste.

  3. Now, slowly pour in your stock while whisking like your life depends on it. No lumps allowed!

  4. Add your seasonings and herbs.

  5. Keep stirring and simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.

  6. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed (before you get too lifted).

Remember: Label this clearly! You don’t want Aunt Martha accidentally pouring this all over her plate without knowing what’s up.

Forget that canned stuff – this homemade cranberry sauce with a special twist will have everyone at the table asking for seconds (though you might want to limit them to just one serving).

The Ingredients:

Getting Saucy:

  1. Toss your cranberries, OJ, and sugar into a saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Let it cook until those cranberries start popping like tiny little fireworks (about 10 minutes).

  3. Once it’s thickened up nicely, remove from heat.

  4. Here comes the fun part – stir in your cannabis-infused honey or tincture.

  5. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pro tip: Make two batches – one regular and one infused. Just make sure to label them clearly!

These aren’t your regular sweet potatoes – they’re elevated sweet potatoes. Perfect for getting baked while getting baked.

What You Need:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes

  • 1/2 cup cannabis butter (cannabutter)

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • Salt to taste

  • Marshmallows (optional, but highly recommended)

The Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Bake those sweet potatoes until they’re tender (about an hour).

  3. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel and mash them up.

  4. Mix in your cannabutter, brown sugar, and spices.

  5. Transfer to a baking dish.

  6. If you’re feeling extra, top with marshmallows.

  7. Bake for another 20-30 minutes until everything’s golden brown and gorgeous.

Warning: These are dangerously delicious – pace yourself!

This warm, spicy cider will lift your spirits in more ways than one. Perfect for those chilly winter nights.

The Essentials:

The Process:

  1. Pour your cider into a large pot.

  2. Add your cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.

  3. Heat until it just starts to bubble, then reduce to a simmer.

  4. Add your cannabis-infused maple syrup (or add tincture to individual cups for controlled dosing).

  5. Let everything mingle and get cozy for about 20 minutes.

  6. Serve it up warm with an orange slice or cinnamon stick garnish.

Pro tip: Keep a non-infused batch warming for designated drivers and non-partaking guests.

Remember folks, the key to a successful Dankmas feast is clear labeling and careful dosing. Nothing ruins a holiday gathering quite like someone getting unexpectedly zooted. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be dank and delightful!

There you have it, folks – five unique ways to spice up your Dankmas traditions and make the season truly memorable. As someone who’s hosted many cannabis-friendly holiday gatherings, I can’t stress enough the importance of starting slow with these recipes. Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to fully kick in, and you definitely don’t want to overdo it during family dinner. I strongly recommend doing a test run with different dosages before the big day to find your sweet spot.

What I love most about these recipes is that they offer a fantastic alternative for those looking to skip the traditional alcohol-heavy holiday celebrations. Cannabis provides a more natural way to unwind and connect with loved ones during this special time of year. Plus, you won’t have to worry about a hangover the next morning!

Remember to celebrate responsibly, be open about what’s infused and what isn’t, and most importantly, enjoy the magic of the season. Happy Dankmas to all, and to all a good height!

 

MORE DANKMAS STORIES, READ ON…

GANJA CLAUSE

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS BY GANJA CLAUSE!



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