A recent study conducted by researchers at Lake Superior State University has raised concerns about the health risks associated with printed marijuana rolling papers. The analysis found that these rolling papers contained elevated levels of heavy metals, including copper, chromium, and vanadium, compared to unprinted papers. In response to these findings, Custom Cones USA, a company based in Renton, Washington, has decided to remove its printed rolling paper inventory and cease future production.
Custom Cones USA was in the process of launching new rolling papers featuring heart designs when the study’s alarming results came to light. The company’s CEO, Harrison Bard, emphasized the importance of consumer safety, stating, “You don’t need inks and printing and pretty designs on your rolling papers. It might lead to having a cooler picture on Instagram, but we owe consumers the education and trust that they’re buying a safe and reliable product.”
The study highlights a broader issue within the cannabis industry: smoking accessories, including rolling papers, are not regulated to the same extent as cannabis products themselves. While cannabis undergoes rigorous testing in states where it is legal, the papers and wraps used to consume it often do not. This regulatory gap poses a risk, as a product that passes cannabis regulations does not guarantee the safety of the materials used for smoking.
Darwin Millard, technical director at Cannabis Safety & Quality, noted that the ASTM International has formed a committee to create standards for pre-rolled cannabis products, focusing on specifications for rolling papers and adhesives. The goal is to address the presence of harmful substances in these products.
Despite the risks, many manufacturers continue to market printed rolling papers as made with soy-based inks. However, this claim can be misleading, as it does not eliminate the presence of heavy metals in the inks. Consumers may not be aware that smoking accessories lack the stringent regulations of tobacco products, which adds to the potential health risks.
Additionally, the concerns do not end with printed papers. Alternative options, such as rose petal wraps, also carry risks. Roses are often treated with pesticides for cultivation, and burning these petals can release harmful chemicals. Furthermore, the use of food-based materials, such as noodles in pre-rolled tips, raises allergen issues, particularly for those with gluten intolerance.
The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division has taken steps to address these concerns by encouraging licensed testing facilities to evaluate rolling paper materials. However, regulations regarding ancillary consumption devices remain limited, as these products are not classified as cannabis.
As awareness of these health risks grows, state regulators may begin to implement specific requirements for printed rolling papers and other smoking accessories in the regulated market. For now, consumers should remain cautious about the products they choose and be aware of the potential dangers associated with printed marijuana rolling papers.
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