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The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office has warned the community about the potential dangers of cannabis products with undisclosed levels of THC.
That’s the psychoactive drug found in marijuana, and Sheriff’s officials said consumers have been unknowingly purchasing products that contain it, leading to several risk factors. It’s also becoming increasingly difficult, they warned, to distinguish between legitimate products and those that contain THC.
With the rise of the cannabis market in San Diego County, authorities have see multiple mislabeled products at smoke shops, gas stations, liquor and wine stores, along with convenience stores and other retail businesses that sell hemp-infused food, drinks, dietary, beauty and medicinal items,
“These products are often packaged and marketed in ways that appeal to children which can lead to accidental consumption. Adults who consume these mislabeled products might also be at risk of driving under the influence without realizing it,” officials said in a statement.
Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an emergency cease-and-desist regulation in September in an attempt to combat the sale of hemp-infused foods, beverages and other products with any detectable amount of THC or any similar compounds that mimic the drug.
The order enforces a minimum age of 21 to legally purchase hemp-infused products and limits THC items to five per package.
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San Diego County Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez has faced concerns from the public and mobilized experts from the Sheriff’s Marijuana Enforcement Team, with assistance from the Regional Crime Laboratory, to conduct a investigation into the risk factors of mislabeled THC products.
The team conducted undercover buys in March, April and September to better understand the impacts in the county. Deputies purchased 110 vape pens, liquids, powder, paper and edibles such as lollipops, candy bars, cookies and gummies across the county for testing by the Sheriff’s Crime Laboratory.
During the investigation, several products labeled as “THC-free” nonetheless contained the ingredient.
Investigators also discovered products containing psilocybin mushrooms, a Schedule One narcotic prohibited for sale throughout the state.
“It’s time to stand up for integrity in the marketplace and protect the rights of those seeking safe, reliable products,” Martinez said in a statement. Misleading labels can lead to unintentional consumption of THC, which may have legal implications and affect personal health and wellness.”
Dr. Natalie Laub, who specializes in pediatrics and child abuse pediatrics at Rady Children’s Hospital, recommends that parents and guardians look for signs of confusion, dizziness, or unusual tiredness in children as symptoms of accidental edible consumption.
Martinez, at a news conference Friday, said her department would offer public awareness and education options, in collaboration with community partners, to actively engage to inform businesses and consumers about the dangers of mislabeled THC products.
She urged parents to be vigilant and securely store cannabis products to prevent accidental ingestion and businesses to seek independent testing for all THC products sold to ensure compliance.
Consumers, parents and businesses also may turn to law enforcement if they suspect a product may be mislabeled by dropping off it off at a sheriff’s station or substation.
– City News Service
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