Psilocybin Found in Intoxicating Hemp Products in Delaware

Secret Shoppers in Delaware Expose Dangerous Contaminants in Hemp Products

In a concerning revelation, secret shoppers in Delaware have discovered a troubling array of contaminants in hemp-derived products. These products, purchased from unlicensed retailers in Dover, Smyrna, and Wilmington, were found to contain mold, pesticides, and even psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms.

News outlet Our Delaware and the National Clinical Director Consortium (NCDC), a cannabis trade group, conducted the undercover survey. Over the course of the investigation, they purchased 30 hemp-derived products including flower, edibles, and vapes from various retail outlets. These items were then tested by a state-licensed marijuana testing lab.

Key Findings from the Survey

Of the 30 products tested, only 19 came with labels. Some were sold in an informal “deli-style” manner, weighed and packaged on-site, while others were repackaged without proper labeling. According to the survey results:

83.3% of the samples violated the Farm Bill regulations.

63.3% of the products contained synthetic cannabinoids.

23.3% included harmful contaminants.

100% had labeling issues.

The survey highlighted serious discrepancies in labeling, with many products failing to accurately list cannabinoid content or THC levels. Some products were found to have much higher THC levels than allowed, while others contained undisclosed synthetic cannabinoids and psilocybin.

Harmful Contaminants and Regulatory Gaps

The hemp products tested were found to be contaminated with mold, unsafe levels of coliform, pesticides, and heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and mercury. Notably, some products contained delta-8 THC, a synthetic cannabinoid, and THC-O, a potent synthetic variant of THC.

Laura Barrett, a Maryland-based registered nurse and clinical consultant for cannabis, expressed concern over the high THC levels and the presence of psilocybin. “Some products labeled with 100 milligrams of THC actually contained 300 milligrams, which is significantly more than what consumers expect,” Barrett said.

The Legal Landscape and Consumer Risks

In Delaware, intoxicating hemp products are illegal, and regulated medical marijuana products must include detailed potency and cannabinoid information on their labels. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp but did not anticipate the creation of intoxicating compounds from hemp.

While some states have banned these products outright, others are struggling to implement effective regulations. The rise of unregulated hemp products reflects a broader issue of regulatory gaps, which can lead to dangerous and misleading products reaching consumers.

Calls for Federal and State Action

Chris Lindsey of the American Trade Association for Cannabis & Hemp (ATACH) highlighted the need for clear federal regulations to address these issues. “Without proper regulations, dangerous and untested products are making their way to consumers,” Lindsey said. “We need both federal and state-level clarity and regulation to protect consumers.”

The ongoing debate over hemp-derived products underscores the urgent need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to ensure consumer safety and product transparency.

Looking Ahead

As Delaware prepares to launch its adult-use marijuana market next year, the findings from this survey underscore the need for stringent oversight and consumer education. Experts like Barrett advocate for both high-quality product standards and informed consumer choices to prevent adverse effects and ensure safe consumption.

Education remains a key factor, with Barrett stressing the importance of responsible shopping and vetting of product manufacturers. “Good-quality hemp-derived THC products should be available, but consumers need to know what they’re getting into,” she said.

For now, the Delaware survey serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with unregulated hemp products and the pressing need for robust regulatory measures.