Missouri’s Cannabis Regulation Division Issues Recall of Vape Products, Exposing Dispute Over Testing Rules
A recent recall of hundreds of marijuana vape pens in Missouri has sparked a controversy over the state’s testing rules for cannabis products. The recall was issued by the Division of Cannabis Regulation and affects products manufactured by Local Cannabis Co., a Kansas City-based company. According to the recall notice, the company failed to test its products in their final form, as required by state regulations.
Local Cannabis Co. claims that the issue is related to “evolving” testing requirements, but state regulators say that the testing rules did not change. The company’s COO, Tyler Pugh, stated that the company was previously allowed to test its products in bulk, but is now working to comply with new testing guidelines.
However, state officials say that no new testing guidelines were issued on April 30, as claimed by Pugh. The date may refer to the publication of new rules focused on research licenses, rather than testing requirements.
The recall was triggered by a certificate of analysis (COA) that showed the products were tested in bulk, rather than in their final form. COAs are documents provided by labs showing test results and testing methodology. The company posts COAs on its website, which show that the products were tested by Green Precision Analytics, a state-licensed lab.
Industry experts say that manufacturers have been required to test vapes after they are processed into cartridges since the recreational marijuana program began in 2023. This ensures that there is no “leaching” from the cartridges.
The recall has drawn attention in Missouri’s cannabis industry, particularly due to its timing. Less than a month ago, Local Cannabis Co. and another manufacturing licensee filed a class-action lawsuit against Good Day Farm, the state’s largest marijuana company, alleging antitrust violations. Several dispensaries impacted by the recall are also named as defendants in the lawsuit.
The dispute over testing rules highlights the importance of ensuring the quality and safety of cannabis products in Missouri. The recall serves as a reminder to consumers to verify the authenticity and testing of products before purchasing.
