Oregon Regulator Recalls Flower Due to Arsenic Risk
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State regulators in Oregon have recalled a batch of cannabis flower that tested positive for arsenic.
The flower was harvested before March 1, the date when heavy metals testing became compulsory for cannabis product in Oregon. As such, the cultivator was in compliance with state testing requirements at the time.
Nonetheless, the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) has recalled the Blueberry Muffin flower – produced by Bend Cannabis Company – out of concern for public safety.
The arsenic contamination was identified following an OLCC audit test.
Arsenic, if ingested at levels over 0.02 parts per million, can damage blood vessels, gastrointestinal and brain tissue, cause skin lesions, neurological problems, and lead to several cancers.
Consumers who purchased the recalled products are encouraged to destroy them. OLCC staff have worked directly with retailers to halt the sale of the contaminated products, and will continue to look into the matter.
More information can be found within the OLCC’s notice, published on July 13.
