The cannabis recall process is crucial for maintaining product safety and ensuring that defective or potentially harmful cannabis products are removed from the commercial market. There are two types of recalls: mandatory recalls and voluntary recalls. Both types involve coordination between the cannabis business and the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC).
Types of Recalls
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Mandatory Recalls
- A mandatory recall occurs when there is an immediate and serious threat to human life or health, and other actions would cause unreasonable delays.
- The DCC initiates and orders the recall.
- The DCC notifies the licensees and requires them to immediately stop distributing the affected cannabis products.
- Licensees must recall the product from the supply chain, and the DCC posts the information on its website, along with a consumer advisory.
- The DCC works with the licensees to ensure that recalled products are either remediated, handled properly, or disposed of.
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Voluntary Recalls
- A voluntary recall is initiated when a licensee identifies that their product is defective, mislabeled, or unsafe for consumption (e.g., adulterated or misbranded).
- The licensee notifies the DCC that they are recalling the product.
- The DCC posts the recall information on its website and issues a consumer advisory.
- The DCC collaborates with the licensee to ensure recalled products are properly handled, remediated, or disposed of.
How to Find Recall Information
For details about recent cannabis recalls, consumers and businesses can check the recall list on the DCC’s website. The recall list provides specifics on individual products, including the recall date and product name, along with important safety information.
To stay updated on cannabis recalls, visit the California Department of Cannabis Control.
