The cannabis industry has seen significant growth in medical and adult-use legalization in recent years. Along with this increased legalization have come increases in both the development and availability of various cannabis-infused products throughout the U.S. Cannabis is no longer sold only in licensed shops. Products containing hemp-derived ingredients—such as lotions and creams, as well as edibles such as gummies—can be found on the shelves of major grocery stores throughout the country.
However, as the industry expands, it is essential to understand the potential risks associated with the presence of potentially hazardous substances throughout the cannabis industry—including but not limited to exposure during cultivation and processing, as well as concerns regarding consumption and use—including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Indeed, the possibility of contamination has the potential to greatly impact the cannabis industry, leading to legal, economic, and reputational ramifications.