What’s in New York’s Illicit Cannabis: Germs, Toxins and Metals

A report from a medical cannabis trade group found contaminants such as E. coli and salmonella in some products purchased at unlicensed dispensaries.

Some cannabis products sold at unlicensed storefronts in New York are not only illegal, but also contaminated with harmful bacteria, heavy metals and toxic pesticides, according to an industry report released on Wednesday.

Lab tests conducted on smokable weed, edible candies and vaporizers purchased from 20 smoke shops and dispensaries detected prohibited levels of eight different contaminants, including E. coli, salmonella, nickel and lead. The survey also found that the strength of some products was mislabeled, according to the report from the New York Medical Cannabis Industry Association, a state trade group.

The association, which represents licensed medical dispensary operators in New York, said the findings underscored concerns raised by elected officials and regulators about the danger posed by the unbridled growth of retail stores across the state that falsely claim their products are legal.

Currently, legal cannabis sales in New York are only available to patients at 38 medical dispensaries operated by the association’s members. But the report comes on the heels of regulators awarding 36 of the state’s first retail dispensary licenses earlier this month. Regulators have said that legal sales of recreational cannabis would begin in December. [Read More @ The NY Times]