CA Lab Finds “Concerning” Levels of Pesticides in Marijuana Products

KGTV News from San Diego reports that lab testing from California shows many marijuana products contain “concerning” levels of pesticides — often well above state health and safety standards.

Marijuana products are often contaminated by pesticides, because the marijuana plant itself easily absorbs toxins in the soil as well as chemicals or other substances sprayed on the plant. As a result, marijuana may contain pesticides, heavy metals, mold, or other contaminants.

These contaminants are passed along into marijuana products — posing serious health risks for marijuana users.

Earlier this year the Wall Street Journal reported that studies have found marijuana users have higher levels of heavy metals in their blood and are more likely to develop fungal infections. These toxins can cause serious — or even life-threatening — illnesses.

Research continues to underscore that marijuana use is dangerous.

Marijuana users face a 60% higher risk of first-time heart attack, stroke, or other major cardiovascular problem.

Heavy marijuana use has been linked to psychosis — especially among young men.

And regular marijuana use has been associated with lung problems and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. A 2022 study published in the journal of the Radiological Society of North America found marijuana smoke may actually be more harmful to lungs than cigarette smoke.

This medical research comes as a proposed marijuana amendment is vying for the 2024 ballot in Arkansas.

All of this underscores what we have said for years, marijuana may be many things, but “harmless” simply is not one of them.

Articles appearing on this website are written with the aid of Family Council’s researchers and writers.