Canadian producers still sitting on more than 1 million kg of dried cannabis

Canadian producers still sitting on more than 1 million kg of dried cannabis

Cannabis producers in Canada are sitting on more than one million kilograms of unsold cannabis, a number that has remained relatively stable since September 2020.

Edibles sales continue to grow, with a spike in sales each December, and cannabis extracts have seen the most significant increase in sales, nearly doubling in the past year, while packaged units of dried cannabis have been holding steady at just under ten thousand units a month. 

As of March 2023, federally licensed cannabis producers in Canada listed 1,249,755 kg of unpackaged cannabis in their inventory, along with 92,590 kg of packaged inventory, while provincial distributors and retailers had another 55,935 kg, for a total of 1,398,280 kg of dried cannabis. 

The total unpackaged inventory first surpassed one million kilograms in September 2020, fluctuating slightly. It has not dropped below one million kg since September 2021. The total peaked in January 2023 at 1,321,435 before declining somewhat in February and then again in March. 

Packaged inventory in the provinces has also declined since a peak in December 2022 at 80,785, dropping to 53,850 in January and then increasing slowly over the next two months. Dried cannabis packaged sales have hovered between about eight and nine thousand since July 2021, with more than 264 thousand sold on the medical side.

Packaged production of cannabis edibles was 4.9 million in March 2023. Packaged inventory with federal licence holders was 11.1 million, while provinces had 8.2 million. Just over 3.9 million units sold in March 2023, with another 304 thousand on the medical side. 

Cannabis extracts have increased significantly since first reaching the market in late 2019. As of March 2023, there were more than 5.7 million packaged units of cannabis extract in production, with 9.5 million in packaged inventory at federal licence holders and another 9.5 million in distributors and retailers. 

Just over 4.3 million units were sold in 2023 in the non-medical sales channels, while more than 313 thousand were sold on the medical side. Inventories at federal licence holders peaked at more than 10.7 million units in June 2022.

The number of units of cannabis topicals in packaged inventory at federal licence holders was nearly 291 in March 2023, down from a peak of more than 338 thousand in October 2021. The total with distributors and retailers in March 2023 was over 165 thousand, down from a peak of more than 286 thousand in January 2022.

CertiCraft

Cannabis plants in packaged production in March 2023 with federal licence holders was 119, with another 136 with distributors or retailers. There were 4,525 cannabis plants sold in the medical stream in 2023, and 757 sold in the non-medical stream in that month. 

Federal licence holders listed over 35 thousand seeds in packaged inventory in March 2023, while distributors and retailers listed nearly 66 thousand. There were only 52 units sold on the medical side and 11.6 million sold on the non-medical side that month. 

The total licenced area for indoor cannabis cultivation was 1.5 million sq m in March 2023, down from a peak of 2.2 million in May 2020. The total processing area was more than 365 thousand sq m in March of this year, down from a peak of more than 526 thousand in May 2021. Approved outdoor cultivation was 587 hectares in March 2023, down from a peak of 713 hectares in December 2021.


420 with CNW — Marijuana Contaminants Could Have Health Risks for Users

420 with CNW — Marijuana Contaminants Could Have Health Risks for Users

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Cannabis use, whether for medical or recreational purposes, may have adverse effects due to the presence of harmful fungi contaminating the plants, according to a recent peer-reviewed study. The study, published in the “Frontiers in Microbiology” journal, employed data derived from earlier studies, combined with U.S. and international regulations related to the marijuana industry. The researchers examined various contaminants, including mucor, fusarium, penicillium, aspergillus and other fungi capable of infecting cannabis plants and generating mycotoxins.

The findings showed that specific fungi could induce infections in lung and skin tissues, with such infections being more prevalent when marijuana is smoked compared to when it’s ingested. Cancer patients using marijuana to alleviate nausea and enhance their appetite, along with transplant recipients and individuals with type 1 diabetes or HIV, are particularly susceptible to these infections. Additionally, the findings suggest that individuals involved in cannabis harvesting might be at risk.

Lead author Kimberly Gwinn said, “Cannabis and hemp are relatively new crops, and our comprehension of their interactions with pathogens is in its infancy. Many pathogens produce mycotoxins, which are compounds known to have detrimental effects on human health and are closely monitored in other crops.

“In our review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature regarding mycotoxins in cannabis and hemp products,” she continued. “We also highlight the existing research gaps regarding potential mycotoxin contamination in these crops, drawing from insights gained in other crop systems.”

While cannabis research has predominantly focused on the substance and its medicinal applications, there is an imperative need for a more extensive examination of potential health hazards associated with its consumption, according to the study. The authors noted that the absence of standardized human health-risk assessment methodologies applicable to the emerging hemp and cannabis industries has resulted in fewer studies focused on their risk. Additionally, the diverse array of consumer uses for these substances, including medicinal use by patients with specific medical conditions, presents a unique challenge in evaluating and mitigating the health risks associated with contaminants.

The differing cannabis regulations from state to state, particularly in the United States, also pose a challenge to mitigating risks. Notably, fusarium mycotoxins, a common class of fungal contaminants that result in vomiting when consumed, currently lack regulatory oversight in most states.

In light of these discoveries, the authors strongly advise immunocompromised consumers to opt for products that have undergone sterilization, at least until more comprehensive data becomes available. The study’s authors also recommend further exploration and possible regulatory adjustments to safeguard consumers, particularly those with compromised immune systems.

This risk of consuming tainted cannabis products is the reason why it is better for consumers to access their products from licensed companies, such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), as opposed to riskier black-market products, which don’t adhere to specific standards.

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern – our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Contaminants Could Have Health Risks for Users

420 with CNW — Study Says Male Cannabis Users Are at Lower Risk for Kidney Stones

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A recent study suggests that men who regularly use cannabis have a lower likelihood of experiencing kidney stones. Researchers who analyzed data spanning from 2009 to 2018, sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), found that male cannabis users exhibited a significant 28% decrease in the odds of reporting kidney stones compared to nonusers.

Furthermore, research showed that men who used cannabis between one and seven times per week had even more favorable odds, with a substantial 38% reduction in the likelihood of kidney stones. Those who used cannabis more than seven times per week did not experience a decrease in kidney stone risk. No connection was established between marijuana use and kidney stones among women.

The authors stated that this was the first study to examine the link between cannabis use and the risk of kidney stones using data from the population-based NHANES data set to its knowledge.

The study included a total of 14,323 participants between the ages of 20 and 59, all of whom had a comprehensive history of kidney stones and cannabis use. Approximately 26% of these individuals reported using marijuana at some point in their lives, and the incidence rate of kidney stones stood at 7.8%.

The researchers noted that due to the cross-sectional design of the NHANES data set, it was not possible to establish a causal relationship between cannabis use and kidney stones. Additionally, the data on cannabis use was self-reported, lacking specifics regarding the type and dosage of cannabis.

Dr. David Goldfarb, New York University Langone Health Kidney Stone Prevention program director and nephrology chief, didn’t participate in the study, but he did comment on it, noting that “the study appears to be well-executed, and the data seem reliable.” He did, however, point out that the study did not provide a clear explanation for the observed effect in men and the lack of an effect in women.

Goldfarb also found it surprising that using marijuana more than seven times per week did not yield further reductions in the risk of kidney stones. He raised the question of whether the mode of consumption, specifically edibles, which have gained popularity in the United States, might have a similar impact on risk.

The study, carried out by Xin Wei, MD, and her colleagues from West China Hospital, Sichuan University in Chengdu, China, was published in “Frontiers in Pharmacology.”

This study shows that there is still much more being discovered about the health benefits of cannabis, and enterprises such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) may be selling recreational and medical marijuana products that provide more benefits to their customers than previously realized.

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern – our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 844-397-5787 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

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Study Suggests Psilocybin Could Manage Childhood Trauma

Study Suggests Psilocybin Could Manage Childhood Trauma

A recent Canadian study has suggested that psilocybin, the main hallucinogenic agent in magic mushrooms, may ease the psychological distress associated with childhood trauma. Researchers say the psychedelic seemed to offer “particularly strong benefits” to individuals who faced extremely severe adversity during childhood.

Led by a team of researchers from Athabasca University, the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University and the University of Michigan, the study involved assessing the childhood trauma experiences of 1,249 Canadians aged 15 years and older. The researchers asked participants about any prior psilocybin use, when they last took the psychedelic and the strength and frequency of their doses. They found that people who had used psilocybin had less childhood-trauma-related psychological distress compared to those who had not used the psychedelic.

According to the report, 49.9% of the respondents said they used psilocybin often or always to deal with emotional or mental-health challenges while 32.2% said they “sometimes” used psilocybin for the same reason. Participants who had adverse childhood experiences were much more likely to use psilocybin for mental-health reasons, but the prevalence of childhood trauma did not increase their chances of using psilocybin for alternative reasons such as relieving boredom, spiritual purposes, connecting with others and pleasure.

Furthermore, the researchers discovered a “dose-response effect” that caused a larger psychological effect and further psychological well-being improvements with increased exposure to psilocybin. The research team surmised that psilocybin may offer a feasible alternative in the treatment of childhood trauma-related psychological stress. They said prior feasibility studies had found that psilocybin has a low potential for addiction, especially at low doses, and a good safety profile.

However, while the psychedelic is relatively safe to use under provider care, even for patients with complex psychiatric needs, using it outside of medical settings can lead to adverse experiences. In some cases, people can experience extreme anxiety, paranoia and even psychotic episodes, the researcher wrote.

The study adds to a steadily growing body of research that has connected several psychedelics with numerous mental health benefits in recent years. Psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, MDMA and mescaline have shown that they can offer long-term benefits against several mental-health conditions, especially when they are paired with traditional talk therapy.

A September study from The Ohio State University, Unlimited Sciences and Johns Hopkins University found that psilocybin is associated with “persistent reductions” in alcohol misuse, anxiety and depression coupled with increases in extraversion, spiritual well-being and emotional regulation.

Another paper from the American Medical Association (AMA) discovered that a single psilocybin dose can result in “clinically significant and sustain reductions” in major depression symptoms. Entities such as Mind Medicine Inc. (NASDAQ: MNMD) (NEO: MMED) (DE: MMQ) are also running psychedelic drug-development programs, and these could yield additional use cases for these hallucinogenic substances.

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Pure Sunfarms’ Soar brand launches its first blunts – infused and kief-coated

Pure Sunfarms’ Soar brand launches its first blunts – infused and kief-coated

(Globe Newswire) Delta, B.C. — Pure Sunfarms Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of Village Farms International, Inc. (Nasdaq: VFF), announces the launch of the first potent and aromatic 1g Infused Blunts under its premium cannabis brand, Soar.

Soar’s 1g Infused Blunts feature fresh hang dried cannabis flower infused with a premium oil for those looking for an elevated cannabis experience. Each Infused Blunt is hand finished with a generous coating of premium kief and rolled with tobacco-free, hemp blunt wrap offering a slower burn time to savour the experience, flavour and potency.

“It’s an exciting time for Soar. We’ve created something special for even the most experienced cannabis consumer with our hand-crafted infused-blunt, something you wouldn’t roll yourself. Visually it’s a standout, and every detail was considered in its design,” shared Orville Bovenschen, President of Pure Sunfarms. “We take pride in the positive response we’ve received from consumers to our innovative brand, Soar. It has quickly risen to become a top premium cannabis brand in Canada.”

Shortly after its launch, Soar rapidly became a top three premium dried flower cannabis brand in Canada. Much of the brand’s success to date can be credited to Pineapple God, one of Soar’s exclusive cultivars belonging to the fruit aroma collection which offers a high-THC indica experience with tropical aromas of candied pineapple. In Summer 2023, this exotic cultivar was the number one premium flower, nationwide.

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The launch of Soar’s 1g Infused Blunts marks the first blunt offering from Soar, which was designed to provide consumers with a thoughtfully crafted, high-quality cannabis experience. This craft-oriented focus has led to the accelerated growth of Soar among cannabis enthusiasts who appreciate its exotic and unique genetics that are hand-harvested, hang-dried, and hand-detailed.

The dried cannabis input in each Infused Blunt is thoroughly reviewed and attributed to a distinct aroma collection — citrus, cake, fruit or gas — allowing consumers to choose an aroma that appeals to them most. For the initial launch, Soar’s new 1g Infused Blunts are available in the citrus aroma collection and fruit aroma collection.

Citrus Cyclone Infused Blunt (Potency: 33-39 per cent. Aroma Collection: Citrus, Species: Sativa): a potent combination of premium cannabis oil and flavours of sweet and creamy orange with hints of lemon and strawberry. This classic cone style 1g kief-coated infused blunt is packed with ground small batch, hang-dried whole flower, and finished with a Dutch crown for an elevated experience and smooth, even burn.

Tropic Crush Infused Blunt (Potency: 33-39 per cent, Aroma Collection: Fruit, Species: Indica): a potent combination of premium cannabis oil and flavours of a tropical fruit medley of guava, berries and sweet pineapple. This classic cone style 1g kief-coated infused blunt is packed with ground small batch, hang-dried whole flower, and finished with a Dutch crown for an elevated experience and smooth, even burn.

Soar’s 1g Infused Blunts are now available in B.C. and Alberta and will be available in Ontario in the months to come.

Pure Sunfarms’ Soar brand launches its first blunts – infused and kief-coated

Canalytica recognized as an Indigenous owned business in Canada’s official Indigenous Business Directory

(Globe Newswire) Brampton — Canalytica is pleased to announce its inclusion as an Indigenous-owned business in Canada’s official Indigenous Business Directory. This recognition is a testament to the company’s commitment to Indigenous ownership and its mission to provide expert guidance in the fields of cannabis, psychedelics, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

Expert guidance in key industries

Canalytica’s inclusion in Canada’s official Indigenous Business Directory underscores its expertise in various sectors. The company’s team of professionals offers specialized knowledge and guidance to clients in the following areas:

A future of collaboration and growth

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Canalytica views its recognition in Canada’s official Indigenous Business Directory as a significant milestone in its commitment to Indigenous ownership and partnership. The company looks forward to continuing its work in close collaboration with Indigenous communities and other stakeholders in these industries.

Evan Stawnyczy, Co-Owner of Canalytica, expressed his pride in the recognition of his Ojibwe heritage and in the company’s professional success: “I am immensely proud to represent my heritage and to offer Canalytica’s services not only to Indigenous people but to all Canadians. Our mission is to bridge the knowledge gap, cultivate understanding, and support responsible growth in these industries. We are dedicated to being a positive force in the Canadian business landscape.”

Pure Sunfarms’ Soar brand launches its first blunts – infused and kief-coated

Green Thumb to open a RISE dispensary in Sun City Center, Florida

(Globe Newswire) Chicago and Vancouver —RISE Dispensaries, a rapidly growing cannabis retail chain owned by Green Thumb Industries Inc., today announced that RISE Dispensary Sun City Center, the company’s tenth retail location in Florida and 86th nationwide, will open on October 27.

RISE Dispensary Sun City Center will welcome patients with a grand opening celebration on November 14, where profits from the day will be donated to Minorities for Medical Marijuana. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony with representatives from the South Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce.

“As we near five years of caring for medical cannabis patients in Florida, we are excited to expand our presence to ten locations in the state with the opening of RISE Sun City Center,” said Green Thumb president Anthony Georgiadis. “Our team is passionate about building strong relationships with the communities we serve, and we look forward to supporting Minorities for Medical Marijuana as part of our new store opening charity donation tradition.”

Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM) is a purpose-driven nonprofit organization that provides education and programs to build a more accessible and equitable cannabis industry, such as their Safe Access initiative, which hosts community-centric events targeting low income and veteran patients to help them learn about and obtain a medical marijuana card at no cost. In addition to the RISE Sun City Center grand opening donation, M4MM also serves as the recipient of RISE Dispensaries’ Round Up Program across Florida, where patients have the option to round up to the nearest dollar when making an in-store purchase in support of the organization.

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Green Thumb joined the Florida community in 2018 and operates two production facilities in Ocala and Homestead where the Company produces its branded products. Green Thumb’s cultivation and manufacturing practices reflect the highest quality standards to ensure all its products offer a true-to-plant, consistent experience.

The company’s retail brand, RISE Dispensaries, is committed to expanding access to well-being through cannabis and making a positive impact on the communities it serves. In addition to RISE Sun City Center, there are nine other RISE Dispensaries in Florida, including locations in Bonita Springs, Brandon, Deerfield Beach, Fruitland Park, Hallandale Beach, Kendall, Oviedo, Pinellas Park and West Palm Beach, with delivery services available at each location. All RISE Dispensaries in Florida offer products from Green Thumb’s award-winning family of brands, including RYTHM premium flower and full spectrum vapes, Dogwalkers pre-rolls, Good Green flower, and &Shine flower, pre-rolls, vapes and chews.