Contaminated Pot – California Weed Recall Sparks Warning for People to Call Their Doctor

By Matthew Impelli

A weed recall in California has sparked a warning from officials for people to call their doctors if they experience symptoms after using the product.

Earlier this month, the California Department of Cannabis Control announced a mandatory recall for single “CANNDESCENT CALIFORNIA 100% WHOLE FLOWER PRE-ROLLS,” over concerns that they may be contaminated with Aspergillus sp.

The recall was also prompted because the product had “inaccurate labeling that reports more cannabinoid content than the product contains,” the announcement said.

Consumers who purchased the product are urged to call their doctors immediately if they “are experiencing symptoms or any adverse reactions.”

“Check your package for the UID and batch number/s above,” the announcement said. “If the numbers match, dispose of the product or return it to the retailer for proper disposal.”

Last month, the California Department of Cannabis Control issued a similar recall announcement for two marijuana products produced by boxer Mike Tyson. The products were recalled due to possible contamination with Aspergillus.

According to the Cannabis Science and Technology website, Aspergillus is a fungus that can grow on many different plants, including cannabis. “If cannabis is grown or stored in conditions that are conducive to mold growth, such as high humidity or improper drying and curing processes, it can provide an environment for Aspergillus to thrive,” the website says.

Cannabis Science and Technology states that consumers who use a cannabis product that is contaminated with Aspergillus can face health risks, with higher risks to those with weakened immune systems and respiratory issues.

“The issue with fungus spores and cannabis is when its spores are introduced into the lungs, for example, by smoking and inhaling contaminated product.”

The recall this month for the Canndescent California 100% Whole Flower Pre-rolls states that the products were sold to four different dispensaries across California. Two were located in Los Angeles, another in Alameda and a fourth in San Francisco.

“DCC sent notices to all licensees with this product in their inventory with instructions about responding to this recall,” the recall said.

Newsweek reached out to the California Department of Cannabis Control via email and Canndescent California via social media for further comment.

On May 9, the agency issued another recall for several different cannabis products from Cali KOSHER flower products “due to inaccurate labeling, that reports more cannabinoid content than the product contains.”

The products were distributed to several different dispensaries in the cities of Calaveras, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Los Angeles, Monterey, Riverside, Sacramento and San Luis Obispo.

https://www.newsweek.com/california-cannabis-weed-recall-fungus-warning-1902489