Is Your Marijuana Safe? Colorado's Strict Testing Mandate Raises Questions
The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) issued a significant number of recalls in 2023 due to the presence of the Aspergillus fungus in cannabis products. Aspergillosis, a severe lung infection caused by Aspergillus, has been associated with a limited number of deaths across the US. Aspergillus is particularly dangerous for marijuana users with compromised immune systems. The MED issued the recall after setting a rule that mandated testing for the fungus. In a memo in July, the Colorado MED reported that some marijuana businesses had been cheating on their lab tests, risking public safety. Industry experts argue that the existing safety standard in Colorado is too stringent and may need review. Kevin Gallagher, executive director of the Colorado Cannabis Manufacturers Association, claims that it is "almost an impossible standard", as it is "incredibly easy to fail".
