Industry Standards Aim to Tackle "Cannafraud" in Vape Cartridges

The cannabis industry is facing a growing challenge known as "cannafraud," particularly affecting vape cartridges. Darwin Millard, the Technical Director of Cannabis Safety and Quality (CSQ), has highlighted this issue, emphasizing the need for industry standards to combat fraudulent practices. Millard, known as "The Spock of Cannabis" for his expertise, particularly in extraction and manufacturing, addressed this pressing concern during a recent conversation with Erin McEvoy

Cannafraud occurs when producers misrepresent products, such as labeling distillate and terpene blends as live rosin or live resin, to capitalize on the higher market value of these products. Millard explained that while these actions might not directly harm consumers, they undermine trust and transparency in the industry. The lack of clear standards and definitions for products like "live rosin" exacerbates this problem, making it difficult for consumers to know what they are purchasing

Millard is actively involved in efforts to establish these much-needed standards. As the Vice Chair of the ASTM Subcommittee on Cannabis Processing and Handling and Chair of the Subcommittee on Personal/Household-Use Cannabis Devices and Appliances, he is at the forefront of defining what constitutes genuine cannabis products. He advocates for clear specifications that would help consumers and regulators distinguish between authentic and fraudulent products, ultimately fostering a more trustworthy marketplace

The implementation of standards could significantly impact the cannabis market by ensuring that products meet specific criteria before being labeled as premium items like live rosin. This move towards standardization is expected to enhance transparency and consumer trust while also providing a framework for producers to follow. As the industry evolves, these standards will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of cannabis products and protecting consumers from fraudulent practices

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, the establishment of standards is becoming increasingly important. The efforts led by experts like Millard are essential in addressing the challenges posed by cannafraud. By defining and enforcing standards, the industry can ensure product integrity and consumer safety, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and reputable market