This week’s newsletter covers cannabis industry misconduct including insider trading ties and a whistleblower lawsuit, a concerning study on inappropriate contact by psychedelic guides, and new research on heavy metals and synthetic impurities in cannabis products.
Noteworthy Read
Cannabis Tech Company Linked to Trump Media Insider Trading Scheme (Miami Herald)
Florida-based cannabis tracking company Alleaves, which holds state contracts to monitor legal marijuana, is under scrutiny due to ties with Michael Shvartsman and Eric Hannelius, who were penalized for insider trading related to a Trump Media merger. While Alleaves claims neither man currently holds a role, Hannelius remains listed as a director in state records.
More Noteworthy Reading
Curaleaf Sued by Whistleblower Claiming Sexual Harassment, Racism & Death Threats (Green Market Report)
A former senior VP at Curaleaf has filed a lawsuit against the cannabis company, alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. She claims she was underpaid compared to her white male counterparts, endured racial and sexist remarks from executives, and received a death threat from a vendor. Curaleaf denies the allegations, calling them “baseless” and pledging to defend itself in court.
Psychedelic Users Report Inappropriate Sexual Contact by Guides (PsyPost)
A new study published in Psychedelic Medicine reveals that many people who use psychedelics experience intense, often distressing emotions, including fear, sadness, and loneliness, as well as physical symptoms like trembling. About 8% of respondents also reported incidents of inappropriate sexual contact by guides or practitioners, especially in unregulated settings.
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Research Round-Up
Heavy Metals in Colorado Cannabis (ASTM International)
With the increasing legalization of cannabis, there’s growing concern about potential heavy metal exposure from cannabis products. This study tested Colorado market cannabis for 20 heavy metals, finding that most levels were within typical ranges for tobacco and cannabis, but indoor-grown plants generally contained fewer metals than outdoor-grown ones.
Identification of Synthetic Impurities in a Vape Pen Containing THCP (MDPI)
In a recent analysis of a vape liquid labeled as 90% delta-9 THCP, researchers found not only delta-9 THCP and delta-8 THCP but also synthetic byproducts, which are typically formed during lab production of THC. This included certain chemical byproducts and isomers (variants of the compound) that might indicate artificial processing. These findings highlight potential inconsistencies in the claims of “natural” sourcing and point to the need for clearer regulations and oversight for these cannabinoid products.
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