## Illicit Cannabis Vapes Contain Shockingly High Pesticide Levels: New Study Reveals
The dangers of the unregulated cannabis market have once again been brought to light with a new study from RPC Labs in New Brunswick, Canada. This research, which examined products seized by law enforcement, uncovered alarmingly high levels of chemical contaminants in illicit cannabis vape cartridges.
The study, published by Stratscann, found that a staggering 93% of the tested unregulated vapes contained pesticide levels far exceeding Health Canada limits. This is a stark reminder of the serious health risks associated with purchasing cannabis products from illegal sources.
More Than Just Low THC:
The study went beyond just analyzing pesticide levels, also examining the potency of the cannabis products. A consistent pattern emerged – THC levels were lower than advertised. In some cases, THC was 86% lower than what was claimed on the packaging. A particularly shocking example was a gummy advertised to contain 50 mg of THC, but testing revealed only 6.81 mg.
Vapes in the Spotlight:
The study’s focus on vape cartridges is significant, as these products have gained immense popularity in the illicit market. Out of the 27 illicit samples tested, only two were found to be completely free of detectable pesticides. Shockingly, one vape cartridge contained a whopping 22 different pesticides, some of which were found at levels 3,000 times over the legal limit.
The Importance of Regulation:
Lead author Andrien Rackov emphasized the critical need to understand the dangers of unlicensed products: “The more studies done over time, the clearer the picture becomes. And this picture is disturbing.”
The study also tested 10 legal vape products, all of which adhered to Health Canada standards. This stark contrast highlights the crucial role of regulation in ensuring the safety and quality of cannabis products.
Consumers at Risk:
The study’s findings serve as a crucial reminder for consumers: unregulated cannabis products may not only contain significantly lower THC levels than advertised but also expose users to potentially harmful chemicals. It underscores the importance of purchasing from legal dispensaries and licensed producers, where products undergo rigorous testing and quality control.
This study provides a stark warning: the dangers of the unregulated cannabis market are real, and the risks associated with consuming these products can be severe. Consumers must be aware of these dangers and prioritize their safety by purchasing from licensed and regulated sources.
