California’s Crackdown on Cannabis Products Intensifies with Another Recall

By: Sam Watanuki | Published: Jun 05, 2024

California regulators are ramping up efforts to ensure the safety of cannabis products. This year alone, the state has issued an unprecedented number of recalls, signaling a more intense crackdown on the industry.

Let’s dive into the details of these actions and what they mean for consumers and producers alike.

Surge in Recalls

So far in 2024, California’s Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) has issued 23 cannabis product recalls, a significant increase from just three in 2023 and 2022.

Clear glass jars with marijuana flowers inside. A person is rolling some marijuana.

Source: Wesley Gibbs/Unsplash

This surge is attributed to heightened inspections and rigorous product testing. DCC spokesperson Moorea Warren explains that these efforts aim to safeguard consumer health.

Aspergillus Concerns

Several recalls this year have been due to the presence of aspergillus, a harmful fungus that can develop on cannabis plants. This fungus poses serious health risks, particularly for those with weakened immune systems.

Dried marijuana flowers against a white background.

Source: Avery Meeker/Unsplash

Enhanced testing protocols have helped identify and remove these contaminated products from the market.

Flower Product Recall

On June 3, 2024, the DCC issued a mandatory recall for specific flower products from BloomBox Flower and Pat’s Flower, sold since October 9, 2023. The recalled items include LA Pop Rocks x Purple Push Pop, in both 1 gram and 14 grams.

A zoomed-in image of the green leaves of marijuana plants.

Source: Jeff W/Unsplash

These products, packaged by Stella Farms in North Hollywood, were sold at a Dr. Greenthumb dispensary near LAX.

Stella Farms’ Response

Stella Farms, the cultivator behind the recalled products, has not responded regarding the recall.

A reporter is pictured interviewing a man on the street

Source: Freepik

The lack of response from such a significant player in the industry highlights the ongoing challenges regulators face in ensuring compliance and transparency.

Infused Soda Health Warnings

Last week, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) warned consumers against drinking Mary Jones hemp-infused sodas.

Mary Jones Soda cans in different flavors

Source: CDPH

These products were discovered to contain banned hemp-derived THC isolate. The CDPH emphasized that these mislabeled sodas could pose a serious risk to consumers.

Specific Soda Products Recalled

The recalled sodas include Mary Jones Orange & Cream, Berry Lemonade, and Green Apple Hemp-infused Sodas, available in 5 mg and 10 mg delta-9 THC variants.

A marijuana plant. The plant is green, pink and purple.

Source: Esteban López/Unsplash

Manufactured in Michigan, these sodas were distributed widely across California, both in retail stores and through online sales.

Legal Implications for Hemp Products

Industrial hemp products are legal in California but must not contain THC isolates. The CDPH’s findings that several soda stock-keeping units (SKUs) violated this law underscore the need for strict regulatory enforcement.

A room with lights and marijuana plants growing underneath them.

Source: Richard T/Unsplash

The agency is actively working to remove these products from shelves and educate the public about the risks.

Governor Newsom’s Directive

In April, Governor Gavin Newsom directed state agencies to address the sale and distribution of illegal hemp products. This directive includes potential civil or criminal penalties for distributors and retailers who continue to sell recalled items.

Gavin Newsom standing behind a wooden lectern. The U.S. and California flags are behind him.

Source: Office of the Governor of California/Wikimedia Commons

Newsom’s initiative reflects a broader effort to tighten regulatory control over the cannabis market.

Jones Soda Company’s Position

Despite the recalls, Jones Soda Company has not issued a voluntary recall of its hemp products. In a May earnings report, CEO David Knight highlighted the success of their delta-9 THC-infused drinks, indicating continued growth in this product line.

Dried cannabis flowers in a clear glass jar.

Source: Johannes Simon/Getty Images

However, the company faces scrutiny and potential enforcement actions for non-compliance.

Financial Impact on Jones Soda

In the first quarter of 2024, Jones Soda reported a 29% year-over-year revenue increase, reaching $5 million.

Dozens of US $100 bills are spread out on a surface

Source: Freepik

Despite this growth, the company also reported a net loss of $1.2 million. The ongoing regulatory challenges may impact their financial outlook and market expansion efforts.

Future of Cannabis Regulation

As California’s cannabis market evolves, increased regulatory scrutiny and consumer safety measures will play a crucial role. The state’s commitment to rigorous inspections and product testing aims to protect consumers and uphold industry standards.

A black silhouette of a marijuana leaf. A sunset is in the background.

Source: Manish Panghal/Unsplash

Staying informed about recalls and adhering to health warnings is essential for safe consumption in this growing market.