Safeguarding Yourself with Delta-8 Hemp Products: A Practical Guide

In states like Alabama and Wisconsin, the absence of regulatory oversight for Delta-8 and other hemp-derived products poses a significant risk to consumers. Despite the legality of Delta-8 gummies and vapes, the market is flooded with potentially mislabeled products that could expose users to harmful contaminants and lead to adverse reactions. Additionally, users may unknowingly test positive for marijuana on drug screenings.

If you choose to use hemp-derived cannabis products, follow these guidelines to protect yourself.

Understanding Potential Health Risks

Consumers of Delta-8 THC have reported adverse reactions, including hallucinations, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, and even loss of consciousness. While the exact causes of these symptoms are unclear, two main theories exist. One suggests that some products may be far more potent than advertised, leading to unexpectedly intense effects. Another theory points to contamination from pesticides and heavy metals.

For instance, a study by the American Council of Independent Laboratories found that 15% of Delta-8 products contained illegal levels of pesticides, with one product exceeding the limit by 600 times. Another study by the University of Rochester Medical Center discovered that many Delta-8 vapes were contaminated with heavy metals, including lead and mercury.

Opt for Edible Products to Minimize Risks

To reduce the risk of exposure to harmful pesticides, consider sticking to edible Delta-8 products rather than inhalable ones. Pesticides are especially dangerous when inhaled because they enter the bloodstream directly, posing a significant health threat. In contrast, when ingested, pesticides are partially broken down during digestion, making them less harmful.

Josh Wurzer, founder of SC Labs, highlights that most agricultural products, including those treated with pesticides, are not meant to be inhaled. Therefore, choosing edibles over vapes or smokable products is a safer option.

Keep Your Receipts and Packaging for Legal Protection

Although Delta-8 is not a controlled substance in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to keep your product’s packaging and receipts. This can help you prove the legality of your Delta-8 products if questioned by law enforcement, especially since hemp-derived products can closely resemble illegal marijuana.

However, it’s important to note that Delta-8 products can still cause you to fail a drug test, as they are virtually indistinguishable from marijuana on screenings. Therefore, retaining the packaging and receipt is essential for showing law enforcement that your product is legal.

Verify Product Quality with a Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Before purchasing Delta-8 products, check for a Certificate of Analysis (COA). A COA provides detailed information about the product's cannabinoid content and checks for contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals. While COAs are not mandatory, reputable brands often provide them online or in-store via a QR code.

Ensure that the COA is up-to-date (within nine months to a year) and that the batch number on the COA matches the one on the product. If any information is missing or seems manipulated, such as inconsistent fonts or poorly altered images, contact the testing lab directly to verify the COA's authenticity.

Be Wary of Misleading COAs

Unfortunately, the cannabis industry has seen cases of mislabeling and inaccurate COAs. Studies have shown that some products marketed as hemp are actually illegal marijuana, with COAs either inaccurate or missing. Consumers should scrutinize COAs for signs of tampering and verify lab testing methods to ensure the product's legitimacy.

Legitimate labs use random sampling methods to prevent producers from manipulating test results. If you're unsure about a COA, don't hesitate to contact the lab for verification.

Vet the Brand Before Purchasing

Finally, take the time to vet the brand you're buying from. A reputable brand will have a transparent presence, including clear contact information and visible community engagement. Brands that hide their identities or lack a local presence may not be trustworthy.

Look for brands that participate in local events or collaborate with other businesses, as this demonstrates their commitment to quality and safety. Avoid purchasing Delta-8 products from gas stations or other questionable retailers.

In conclusion, using Delta-8 products carries certain risks, but by following these guidelines, you can better protect yourself and ensure you’re consuming a safer product.