Arizona Marijuana Recall: Spinosad Pesticide Contamination Found

Voluntary recall of certain marijuana products due to possible Spinosad pesticide contamination

News Source: Arizona Department of Health Services

During a routine lab inspection at Kaycha Labs, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) State Laboratory inspectors observed records that indicated failed testing for the pesticide Spinosad was reported to the marijuana establishments as a passing test. As a result of this information the marijuana establishments are voluntarily recalling specific products due to possible contamination with Spinosad. Spinosad is a natural substance made by a soil bacterium that is used to control a wide variety of pests and for treating head lice and fleas in humans and animals. Spinosad is registered for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Please see the list provided below. The products tested were distillates. The distillates were used to manufacture additional products. ADHS is advising consumers to dispose of the products described in the table below, which were found in laboratory tests to be positive for Spinosad.

To date, no illnesses have been reported. This announcement is being made out of an abundance of caution. Consumers who have purchased potentially contaminated products should not ingest, inhale, or otherwise consume them and should dispose of them. If you have already consumed any of the products and have any of the symptoms described below, please contact your healthcare provider or seek care immediately in the event of an emergency.

Once ADHS discovered the potential contamination, they contacted the facility that produced the products. The licensee took immediate action to work with all distribution and retail partners to remove any potentially impacted products from store shelves. Possibly contaminated products are quarantined at the point of sale until secondary confirmatory testing is completed. ADHS works closely with licensees to ensure public safety as product concerns arise.

Testing requirements for marijuana products can be reviewed on Table 3.1 for each 9 A.A.C. 18 Adult-Use Marijuana Program and 9 A.A.C. 17 Medical Marijuana Program.  

Consumers may contact the dispensary or establishment where they purchased the products listed below if they have any questions.

SYMPTOMS

Spinosad is generally safe for people and other animals. It does not absorb well when swallowed, so serious health problems are unlikely. If someone consumes a large amount, they might experience mild stomach upset and could have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If it comes into contact with your skin or gets into your eyes, it could cause mild irritation. If symptoms are severe, call Arizona Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

For more information visit:

Arizona Poison Control information, 1-800-222-1222

National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC): https://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/spinosadgen.html 

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/mosquito-control/larvicides.html

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