Retail Brew is a leading source for retail industry news and insights, covering topics such as marketing, DTC, and e-commerce to keep leaders and decision-makers informed. A recent investigation by the Los Angeles Times and WeedWeek found alarming levels of pesticides in legal cannabis products purchased from licensed dispensaries in California. The investigation discovered that 25 out of 42 products tested had concentrations of pesticides that exceeded state regulations or federal standards for tobacco. Some private labs, hired by brands rather than regulators, were accused of approving products at high rates and finding higher potency levels through lax testing rigor.
Retailers depend on their suppliers to accurately test products, and many have been surprised by revelations of unsafe products on their shelves. In addition, MJBizDaily reported on the issue of slow product recalls for potentially contaminated cannabis products in states where recreational cannabis is legal. Despite whistleblowers’ allegations and regulators issuing recalls for products with unsafe levels of pesticides and mold, many of these products had already been cleared for sale months before the recalls were issued. This delay in recalls poses a significant risk to consumers who may have already consumed these products.
The findings from these investigations highlight the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the cannabis industry to ensure the safety of consumers. Retailers and consumers alike must be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming cannabis products and advocate for better testing and recall processes to protect public health.
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