In Michigan, hemp-derived THC has made its way into the market. This practice allows for potentially unsafe, unregulated products to reach consumers, undermining the state’s licensed cannabis retailers and creating an uneven playing field in the industry.
Hemp-derived THC refers to cannabinoids synthesized from CBD extracted from hemp, often sold without the rigorous testing and regulation required for cannabis products. These products can bypass the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA)’s standards, making them a growing concern among legal cannabis operators.
Products converted from hemp may contain harmful residual chemicals, impurities, or inconsistent potency, increasing the risk of adverse reactions for consumers. Though additional research needs to be conducted to determine the level of risk these byproducts pose, it’s important for retailers and consumers alike to be aware of the potential for health risks.
Licensed cannabis retailers who adhere to Michigan's stringent CRA standards are facing competition from unregulated hemp-derived THC products, which can be produced and sold at lower costs. This disrupts the balance of the market and threatens the integrity of legal operators.
The influx of hemp-derived THC products can lead to confusion among consumers who may not understand the differences between regulated cannabis and unregulated hemp derivatives, potentially damaging trust in the cannabis market as a whole.
The industry and media have been concerned for over 2 years without meaningful progress. MiSCCo exists to help hold the industry accountable
Your participation is crucial in tackling the hemp-derived THC problem. Here’s how you can support the cause:
The Michigan for Safe Cannabis Coalition (MiSCCo) is at the forefront of advocacy efforts to eliminate the sale of unregulated hemp-derived THC in Michigan. We are working closely with legal cannabis operators throughout the state to bring attention to the risks posed by these unregulated products and pushing for stricter enforcement and clearer guidelines.
MISCCO has been in close communication with Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) regarding its efforts. The CRA has taken steps to address the issue by halting plans to allow hemp conversion to THC and continuing to evaluate the safety risks associated with these products.