The Hidden Dangers Lurking in “Hemp” Products
The unregulated market for intoxicating “hemp” products is booming, but a new investigation reveals a disturbing truth: many of these products aren’t what they seem. A recent study, aptly titled “The Great Hemp Hoax,” conducted by the San Diego/Imperial Counties Joint Labor Management Cannabis Committee, exposes the prevalence of synthetic cannabinoids and illicit THC masquerading as legal, natural hemp products.
A Closer Look at the Deception
This groundbreaking research, spearheaded by Tiffany Devitt of Groundwork Holdings, Inc., involved testing 104 “hemp” products – primarily gummies and vapes – purchased online from 68 different brands. The analysis, conducted by Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs in San Diego, uncovered a shocking reality: many so-called hemp products are laced with synthetic psychoactive cannabinoids, capable of inducing a more intense high than natural Delta-9 THC.
Furthermore, the study found synthesized Delta-9 THC present in numerous products, despite its prohibition under both California’s cannabis and hemp regulations. This blatant disregard for legal frameworks raises serious concerns about consumer safety and product integrity.
The widespread availability of these unregulated products also translates to a significant loss in tax revenue for state and local governments. By circumventing established channels and regulations, these companies are effectively dodging their financial obligations.
Unmasking the Industry’s Shortcuts
Devitt, speaking at an online press conference, highlighted the inherent inefficiency of extracting psychoactive compounds from hemp. “To produce a small amount of THC distillate from hemp instead of high-resin cannabis, you would need approximately 50 times more biomass,” she explained. This translates to significantly higher resource consumption – land, labor, water – making it an economically unsustainable practice.
The study’s findings point towards industry practices that prioritize profit over consumer well-being. The presence of synthetic cannabinoids in products marketed as “natural hemp” raises serious questions about transparency and ethical conduct within the industry.
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Protecting Yourself from Synthetic Cannabinoids
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The study defines “chemically synthesized cannabinoids” as compounds made through a chemical conversion process rather than being naturally extracted from the plant. These can include Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, which are typically synthesized from CBD isolate that’s sourced from hemp. There’s also THCP, THCO, HHC, and others that can’t be made from CBD starter material — and thus are outside any legal definition of “hemp.” These illegal compounds are designed to mimic the effects of Delta-9 THC but are often chemically modified to amplify intoxicating effects. THCP, for example, is estimated to be over 30 times stronger than Delta-9 THC.
The study arrived at a “THC Potency Equivalency Factor” (PEF) based on each compound’s relative CB1 (cannabinoid) receptor binding affinity compared to natural delta-9 THC. THCP was found to have a PEF of 30 — meaning it is 30 times more efficacious at getting you high than its natural cousin Delta-9 THC. “This can also mean amplified health risks,” says Devitt, who compares THCP and other “uber-strong” designer compounds identified in the study to the street drug Spice. Also known as K2, this is basically any herbaceous substance treated with synthetic molecules that overwhelm or trip-switch the CB1 receptor.
It’s Not Nice to Fool Mother Nature
Sloppy language in the 2018 US Farm Bill inadvertently opened this “Pandora’s box” of unregulated psychoactive designer compounds by legalizing cannabinoids other than Delta-9 THC that were derived from “hemp” as defined by federal law — that is, cannabis with under 0.3 percent THC. This was intended as a means of day-lighting CBD, the non-psychoactive (or perhaps very subtly psychoactive) cannabinoid with a plethora of purported curative properties. A glut of CBD flooded the market after the passage of the Farm Bill, and this set the stage for intoxicating hemp entrepreneurs, who took advantage of the CBD’s trickster-like ability to shape-shift — or be shape-shifted — into Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC via a chemical conversion process.
For some perspective on the matter, TheTrendyType turned to Mark Scialdone, a molecular chemist with Saint Michael’s College in Vermont, who co-authored a 2023 paper for the International Cannabinoid Research Society (ICRS) entitled “The Dark Side of Cannabidiol.” “Before the Farm Bill, extracted CBD was $5,000 per kilo; since the Farm Bill, it’s down to $200,” Scialdone explained. “The market crashed. There was an incentive to take a material nobody wants to buy and create a product from it that there’s a demand for. People want to get high.”
However, a major problem: intoxicating “hemp” products, poorly manufactured without meaningful oversight, often contain THC isomers not found in nature. The “Hemp Hoax” study identified these and other byproducts of the chemical conversion process, including corrosive solvents and heavy metals, which found their way into gummies and vape carts. As Scialdone pointed out, it’s technically difficult and prohibitively expensive to filter out residual toxins in adulterated products after CBD has been synthesized into THC — which may not bode well for public health given the booming market for “hemp” intoxicants.
Golden State officials have taken steps to rein in the Wild West of psychoactive “hemp” commerce. California’s Assembly Bill 45, passed in 2021, explicitly states: “‘Industrial hemp’ does not include cannabinoids produced through chemical synthesis.”
Gumming up Clarity on Gummies
The study tested potency and checked to see if products complied with the legal definition of hemp. Disturbingly, it found that a full 54% of products tested failed to meet the federal hemp standard (based on Delta-9), and 88% failed to meet the California hemp standard (which also includes Delta-8).
A full 95% of products tested contained synthetic cannabinoids, including 97% of vapes and 90% of gummies. Delta-8 was found in 86% of products, Delta-9 in 84%, “uber-strong” THCP in 47%, HHC in 34%, and THCO in 6%.
Devitt says many of the so-called “hemp” gummies contained “astonishing levels” of THC that were significantly higher than what’s permitted in California’s regulated cannabis market, which abides by a per serving THC cap of 10 milligrams and a per package cap of 100 milligrams. A full 84% of tested gummies exceeded the serving cap, with the average THC per gummy weighing in at 89 milligrams. Over a third had between 100 and 325 milligrams. And 81% exceeded the per package cap.
These products continue to be available despite emergency regulations proposed by the California Department of Public Health and signed into effect by Gov. Gavin Newsom in September 2024, which banned any detectable amount of THC in hemp products (including Delta-8 and Delta-9). These emergency regulations were challenged in the courts by the US Hemp Roundtable, but they were upheld and remain in effect.
The Vape of Things to Come?
The study’s findings with vapes are even more ominous. Synthetic cannabinoids were present in a full 97% of vape products tested, and often these compounds were much stronger than naturally derived THC. According to the study’s “THC equivalency” scale, the average amount of THC in tested vapes was 2,682 milligrams per cartridge — 268% above California’s limit for THC in adult-use
The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Cannabis Vape
The cannabis market is booming, with a dizzying array of products promising everything from relaxation to euphoria. But behind the enticing labels and marketing hype lies a potentially dangerous reality: many vapes contain far more THC than advertised, along with unexpected and unregulated substances.
A recent study by the Infinite Chemical Testing Lab revealed alarming findings about the contents of popular cannabis vape cartridges. Shockingly, over half of the tested products contained between 2,000 and 14,000 milligrams of THC equivalency per vape – significantly exceeding the legal limit of 2,000 milligrams set by California’s medical marijuana program. This excess potency is largely attributed to the presence of THCP, a potent cannabinoid that can induce intense psychoactive effects.
Unforeseen Consequences: Beyond Just a High
“With greater potency comes a heightened risk of unintentional over-intoxication,” warns Dr. Emily Devitt, lead researcher on the study. “These risks are further amplified by exposure to adulterants and the mislabeling of products, leaving consumers in the dark about what they’re actually consuming.”
The study uncovered instances where vapes marketed as legal “THCA” products contained synthetic Delta-8 and THCP but lacked any non-psychoactive THCA whatsoever. One example cited was vape cartridges sold by the popular brand Cookies.
Dr. Devitt expresses serious concerns about the potential for vape-related lung damage, echoing the nationwide outbreak of hundreds of pulmonary injuries, some fatal, linked to vaping in 2019. This alarming trend underscores the need for greater transparency and regulation within the cannabis industry.
Surprise Ingredients: Beyond Cannabis
Perhaps the most startling discovery was the presence of psychoactive compounds unrelated to cannabis in several vape products. These included psilocybin mushrooms or their derivatives, even in minute quantities. Such unexpected additions could lead consumers on a far more intense and unpredictable psychedelic journey than they anticipated.
Another surprise ingredient found in some vapes was kratom, an herbal substance with opioid-like effects. While proponents tout its potential to help individuals wean off opioids, kratom remains controversial due to its addictive properties. The DEA initially planned to classify kratom as a Schedule I drug alongside cannabis but ultimately postponed the decision pending further public comment.
One example of a product containing kratom is Cheech & Chong’s Kosmic Chews, marketed under the iconic brand name of the legendary comedy duo. Each chew contains 25 milligrams of kratom and 15 milligrams of THC, promising a “deeper high.” However, the fine print acknowledges the risk of kratom dependency with prolonged daily use.
Synthetic THC: A Legal Gray Area
Dr. Devitt challenges the claim on Kosmic Chew labels that the product contains “all-natural” Delta-9 THC. The Infinite Chemical Testing Lab found evidence of chemically synthesized THC in the product, a practice prohibited in California hemp products since 2021.
Brandon Harshbarger, president of Cheech & Chong’s Global Holding Company, maintains that the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and its derivatives, including synthetically produced THC. However, this interpretation remains contested within the legal community.
This investigation highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations and increased consumer awareness regarding the potential dangers lurking in unregulated cannabis vapes. Before indulging in a vape, it’s crucial to research the brand, scrutinize the label for any red flags, and prioritize products from reputable sources that undergo independent third-party testing. Your health and safety depend on it.
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The Gray Market Threat: How Unregulated Hemp Products Undermine Legal Cannabis
The burgeoning legal cannabis market faces a growing threat from unregulated hemp-derived products, blurring the lines between what’s legal and what’s not. A recent report by the California Department of Public Health sheds light on this concerning trend, highlighting potential dangers to consumers and the legal industry alike.
A Questionable Combination: THC and Kratom
One example cited in the report is Kosmic Chews, a product containing both hemp-derived Delta-9 THC and kratom extract. While the manufacturer claims the combination is safe within the 0.3% federal THC limit, critics argue that there’s insufficient evidence to support this assertion. Tiffany Devitt, a cannabis advocate, points out that California law explicitly bans THC-infused hemp products, making Kosmic Chews illegal regardless of their THC content.
Tax Evasion and Lack of Transparency
The report also reveals a disturbing trend: the majority of intoxicating hemp products are sold without paying state or local taxes. This practice not only deprives California of crucial revenue but also creates an unfair advantage for these unregulated products over legal cannabis edibles. Devitt argues that this undermines the voter-approved Proposition 64, which established a transparent and accountable system for the legal cannabis market.
Global Sourcing Concerns: Bypassing Labor Standards
The report raises further concerns about the sourcing of intoxicating hemp ingredients. Many companies manufacturing these products outsource production to other states or even import inputs from countries like China. This practice bypasses crucial labor standards and fails to contribute to California’s workforce, unlike the regulated cannabis industry which prioritizes fair wages and union jobs.
The Synthetic Cannabinoid Dilemma: A Familiar Threat
The unregulated nature of the hemp market allows for the proliferation of synthetic cannabinoids, often derived from hemp-extracted CBD. These substances can be chemically altered to mimic the effects of THC while skirting legal restrictions. This echoes a familiar pattern seen with other psychoactive drugs, where producers constantly tweak chemical structures to stay ahead of the law.
Fueling Anti-Cannabis Sentiment: A Dangerous Backlash
Perhaps the most alarming consequence of this unregulated market is its potential to fuel anti-cannabis sentiment. Concerns over the safety and legality of these products could lead to calls for stricter regulations on the entire cannabis industry, ultimately hindering progress and access for responsible consumers.
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https://thetrendytype.com/responsible-cannabis-consumption
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The unregulated hemp market poses a serious threat to both public health and the legal cannabis industry. It’s crucial for consumers to be aware of these risks and advocate for stronger regulations to ensure a safe and equitable marketplace.
The Unseen Dangers Lurking in the “Hemp” Market
The cannabis industry is facing a critical juncture. While legalization gains momentum, a shadow market of intoxicating hemp-derived products is thriving, often with little regard for consumer safety or ethical practices. This unregulated sector, driven by profit and fueled by loopholes in legislation, poses a significant threat to the legitimacy and progress of the broader cannabis movement.
A Race to the Bottom: Prioritizing Profit Over People
Recent reports highlight a concerning trend within the legal cannabis industry – a relentless pursuit of higher potency, often achieved through questionable methods like adding THC concentrate to joints. This “race to the bottom” mentality is partly driven by the competition from readily available and less regulated intoxicating hemp products like Delta-8.
As detailed in a recent New York Times article, this fast-buck atmosphere undermines the values of responsible cannabis cultivation and distribution. The focus on maximizing profits often overshadows concerns about product safety and consumer well-being.
The Health Risks of Synthetic “Hemp” Derivatives
Perhaps the most alarming aspect of this unregulated market is the blatant disregard for potential health consequences. Synthetic cannabinoids, masquerading as natural hemp derivatives, are flooding the market with little to no oversight regarding their purity or long-term effects.
Christopher Hudalla, a leading expert at Proverde Labs in Massachusetts, aptly describes this situation: “I cannot imagine another legitimate industry that would be permitted to operate with such irresponsibility.” Yet, discussions surrounding the economic advantages enjoyed by these counterfeit hemp entrepreneurs often fail to address the critical issue of consumer safety.
“Hemp” Products: A Far Cry from Wellness
Industry leaders like David Devitt, CEO of [link to relevant subpage on The Trendy Type website about CBD products], are sounding the alarm. They argue that today’s unregulated “hemp” industry is a far cry from its purported wellness roots. Instead, it’s driven by profit-hungry entrepreneurs peddling synthetic cannabis substitutes under misleading branding.
These intoxicating hemp products, Devitt argues, are akin to ultra-processed junk food in the world of cannabis. They trivialize the medicinal potential of cannabis and overshadow the true benefits of ecologically beneficial fiber hemp and nutritious hempseed oil.
The unchecked growth of this unregulated sector threatens to undermine the hard-won progress of the cannabis movement. It’s imperative that consumers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders work together to ensure a safe, ethical, and sustainable future for the cannabis market.
