Cannabis Safety Concerns Grow Amid Lack of Federal Oversight
Written by Site Hub on February 4, 2025
Despite the legalization of marijuana in 40 states, concerns about product safety persist due to lack of federal regulation. Because cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, agencies like the FDA do not oversee its production, leaving state enforcement inconsistent and unreliable.
Colorado-based cannabis producer Justin Singer tested 15 products from dispensaries and found that several exceeded limits for mold, bacteria, and pesticides—posing potential health risks. While states have their own safety standards, regulations vary widely, and enforcement is inconsistent.
In Colorado, once considered the gold standard for legal cannabis, safety inspections have declined due to industry financial struggles. Meanwhile, contaminant testing is not standardized, and some producers use irradiation—a process to kill bacteria without consumer labeling.
Experts warn that while no widespread illnesses have been reported, the long-term effects of contaminated marijuana remain unknown. Calls for stronger consumer protections, shelf surveillance testing, and better transparency are growing, as many fear that current regulations are not enough to ensure safe cannabis products.
Source: NPR