Cannabis Pre-Rolls Recalled Due to Arsenic Contamination

California Cannabis Recall: Arsenic Contamination Found in Josh Wax Pre-Roll Product

The California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) has issued a voluntary recall for a pre-roll cannabis product due to arsenic contamination. The recall specifically affects the Josh Wax Pre Roll Multipack, which includes Sea Biscuit A2 3.5-gram pre-rolls. This product, packaged on or after July 15, 2024, and sold after July 22, 2024, has been identified as containing potentially unsafe levels of arsenic.

Details of the Affected Product

The Sea Biscuit A2 pre-rolls, a popular product among cannabis consumers, were recalled following routine testing that detected the presence of arsenic, a toxic heavy metal. Arsenic exposure can lead to serious health issues, particularly if consumed over time, making this recall an urgent matter for consumer safety.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled product are advised to stop using it immediately and return it to the place of purchase. Full details on the specific product batches affected by this recall are available through the DCC’s official communication channels.

Ongoing Recalls and Enforcement by the DCC

This latest recall is part of a broader effort by California’s DCC to maintain safety and quality standards in the state’s legal cannabis market. In addition to the Josh Wax recall, the DCC recently issued a recall for all vape products produced by K.U.S.H. Collective, a move that also resulted in the revocation of the company’s cannabis license. This decision reflects the DCC’s firm stance on enforcing compliance and ensuring that cannabis products meet health and safety regulations.

Previous Cannabis Recalls in California

In recent months, California has seen an uptick in cannabis product recalls, primarily due to contamination concerns and labeling issues. Several recalls were issued for mold contamination and the presence of unapproved pesticides in various products.

One of the most prominent recalls occurred in July 2024 when the DCC recalled multiple “Kush Creaturz” flower products. These products were flagged not only for potential health risks but also for their child-attractive packaging. The flower products, featuring cartoon characters with names like “Randy Resin,” “Marty Mids,” and “Frank the Fuego Man,” were deemed inappropriate under California’s cannabis packaging regulations, which prohibit marketing that could appeal to children.

The recalled Kush Creaturz products included five-gram packages of sativa, indica, and hybrid cannabis flowers, many of which were packaged and sold in 2024, though some dated back to 2023.

Ensuring Consumer Safety in the Cannabis Industry

The string of recalls highlights the ongoing challenges faced by California’s legal cannabis market as it works to ensure that products are safe for consumers and compliant with regulatory standards. The DCC’s commitment to routine testing and strict enforcement of cannabis safety laws is vital to protecting public health and sustaining the integrity of the industry.

As cannabis legalization continues to evolve, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about product recalls and safety warnings. Regulatory bodies like the DCC are expected to continue ramping up oversight to prevent further contamination issues and ensure that businesses follow strict manufacturing, testing, and packaging protocols.

The voluntary recall of the Josh Wax pre-roll product, due to arsenic contamination, underscores the importance of stringent safety measures within the cannabis industry. As the DCC continues to crack down on companies that fail to meet state standards, cannabis businesses must prioritize consumer safety to avoid similar actions. Consumers are advised to remain vigilant, check recall updates regularly, and only purchase cannabis products from licensed, reputable sources to ensure safety and compliance.