Massachusetts Cannabis regulators have issued a wide public health warning after finding potentially contaminated marijuana in over 30 dispensaries throughout the state. This warning affected several popular brands such as Strane Hand Picked, and Garcia Hand Picked.
According to a state statement, the Cannabis Control Commission of Washington announced that a follow-up test for compliance revealed elevated levels in yeast, mold, and coliforms, even though products initially passed all required tests between March 2024 and September 2024.
Regulators noted that the affected products included marijuana flower as well as pre-rolled products, under brands such Highland OG and Silver Kush. These products were distributed at recreational marijuana stores and medical dispensaries from May 31, 2024 to January 30, 2025.
The Commission’s announcement noted that Massachusetts has higher levels of yeast and mold than most other states, which have adult-use cannabis.
Despite the fact that no illness has been reported, Metrc (the state tracking system) was blocked by regulators. Medical marijuana patients and consumers who have the products in question are advised to destroy or return them.
In the advisory, officials stated: “The Commission deems marijuana a risk to public safety and health when total yeast or mold exceed the permissible limits.”
The alert affects dozens retailers in Massachusetts from Boston to Berkshires. It also includes locations run by big operators, such as Holistic Industry and ARL Healthcare.
The list is available to consumers on request. For inquiries, the Commission has set up multiple channels including email and phone support.
Products affected include:
- Strane Carbon Fibre Strain (1g prerolls, 3g and 28g packages).
- Strane Frosted Jungle strain (1g pre-rolls, 3.5g packages)
- Strane Silver Kush Strain (pre-rolls & 5g 10 pack)
- Garcia Hand Picked Highlands OG (3.5g,7g,28g package, 1g Pre-Rolls).
Affected are key retailers and medical dispensers:
- Holistic Industries has locations in Somerville (Easthampton), Springfield, and Monson.
- ARL Healthcare in Quincy & Middleborough
- KG Collective in Brockton & Cambridge
- Enlite Cannabis dispensaries in Northampton, Springfield
- Northeast Alternatives Retail Stores in New Bedford & Seekonk