Amfil Technologies Inc (FUNN)

[Felo31]

Health Canada mandates pesticide testing for medical cannabis producers

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Health Canada said Friday this next step of a mandatory testing regime was necessary after final results from random tests of seven growers found two, Hydropothecary and Peace Naturals, had products with traces of the banned pesticide myclobutanil or another active ingredient in other pesticides piperonyl butoxide. Myclobutanil, a chemical which is used to kill mildew, is a known carcinogen that is strictly prohibited for use on plants that are smoked because it produces hydrogen cyanide when heated."

"This requirement for mandatory testing for the presence of unauthorized pesticides will help ensure that Canadians can continue to have confidence in obtaining safe, quality-controlled medical cannabis from licensed producers," said a statement from Department spokesperson Eric Morrissette sent to The Globe and Mail Friday evening."

"Prior to the tainted cannabis problems, Health Canada said it would take a "zero-tolerance" approach to dangerous pesticides if they were discovered, and that companies could lose their licences. But after the banned chemicals were discovered – including myclobutanil – Health Canada officials acknowledged they hadn't been testing for such pesticides, and were therefore taking companies at their word. The chemicals were discovered only when licensed producer Aurora tested the bulk shipment it purchased from Organigram for resale."

"Hundreds of patients exposed to myclobutanil and bifenazate through the recalls announced in December have come forward complaining of serious health issues, ranging from breathing problems to persistent headaches and nausea, blistering rashes and muscle pain."

https://beta.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/health-canada-mandates-pesticide-testing-for-medical-cannabis-producers/article34913001/?ref=https://www.theglobeandmail.com&service=mobile

From the HEALTH CANADA web page, powers of the inspector:

i) seize and detain, in accordance with this Part, any controlled substance, precursor, designated device or conveyance found in that place the seizure and detention of which the inspector believes on reasonable grounds are necessary;