How fungal contamination impacts your cannabis company
The legal cannabis market has witnessed a surge in recent years, driven by increasing global acceptance and legalization. However, like other agricultural sectors, it faces significant challenges, among which fungal contamination tops the list. The potential contamination by fungi, such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Botrytis, has both health and economic repercussions for operators and licensees.
Recently, a St. Louis-based cannabis cultivator was highlighted in allegations that lead to an investigation by Missouri regulators, when a former employee accused the company of knowingly distributing moldy cannabis to consumers.
The former lead post-harvest technician claimed that mold, russet mites, and a plant viroid had damaged crops before her departure. She claimed that in September, employees were instructed to package moldy marijuana and send it to dispensaries. While Missouri regulations necessitate testing of marijuana products for four types of Apergillus mold, the impact of the allegations were felt throughout the industry.
Mold has been a hot-button issue in Missouri cannabis in 2023. With rumors and allegations swirling around multiple operators, but even without conjecture and rumor, mold and plant health is an ongoing battle for every operator in the cannabis industry.
Fungi, while naturally occurring, can become problematic in the right conditions. The humid environments favored by cannabis plants are also ideal for mold and fungal growth. When these fungi thrive on cannabis plants, they pose considerable risks:
Threat to Consumer Health: Contaminated cannabis, when inhaled, introduces harmful fungi directly into the body. Aspergillus, for instance, can lead to aspergillosis, a severe lung condition. This is particularly concerning for medical cannabis users, many of whom have compromised health, making them even more vulnerable (CDC, 2021).
Degradation of Product Quality: Fungal infestations can compromise the visual appeal, aroma, flavor, and potency of cannabis. Moldy cannabis may lose its therapeutic effectiveness, rendering it less beneficial for medical users.
Crop Yield Reduction: Fungi can weaken the cannabis plant, resulting in reduced yields. Infections like Botrytis can destroy a cannabis bud, rendering it unusable.
From an economic standpoint, fungal contamination’s implications are multifaceted, affecting various aspects of a cannabis business.
Operational and Direct Costs: The immediate loss comes from the discarded contaminated crops. After investing months of care, resources, and time into the plants, growers might face the grim task of disposing of large portions of their harvest. This not only equates to lost revenue but also amounts to wasted resources.
Regulatory and Compliance Expenses: As regulations tighten, testing becomes paramount. Companies bear the brunt of increased testing costs, especially if their samples repeatedly test positive for fungal contamination. Beyond testing costs, businesses that don’t meet regulatory standards might face fines, adding to their financial burdens.
Potential Legal Liabilities and Brand Damage: A single contamination incident can have long-term repercussions on a company’s reputation. Trust is a valuable commodity, and once tarnished, it’s challenging to restore. Companies might also face legal challenges from affected consumers, escalating costs and further eroding trust.
Market and Growth Impact: Delays due to contamination can provide competitors with a chance to edge ahead. Funds that could have been channeled towards expansion or research might be redirected towards contamination control, putting businesses at a disadvantage in a competitive market.
For the cannabis industry to continue its growth trajectory, addressing fungal contamination is crucial. By understanding both its health and financial implications, businesses can implement robust measures to safeguard consumers and ensure profitability.
