Some CBD Gummies May Contain Less Ingredient Than Claimed, Independent Analysis Reveals
In-depth examinations of pesticide and heavy metal content were conducted on products from Keoni, Medterra, Royal, and Smilz. CBD, derived from marijuana or hemp plants, is increasingly popular, with 28% of Americans having used it in the past two years, as indicated by a national survey of 2,125 U.S. adults in July 2022.
An independent check of CBD gummies sold online from Keoni, Medterra, Royal, and Smilz was performed. The analysis found no pesticides in any product, and all had negligible or no THC, the psychoactive component (legally, CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC).
However, three of the four companies’ products contained less CBD than advertised. Medterra was the exception, meeting or slightly exceeding its CBD claims. When questioned about the lower CBD levels, Brent Garr, CEO of Wellness Brands (Keoni’s parent company), emphasized their commitment to quality and safety.
Royal addressed the variability in their product, explaining it as a compromise to minimize processing in their full-spectrum hemp extract production. The study also detected lead in Keoni and Smilz gummies, albeit at very low levels. Keoni reassured that these levels were safe and common, while Smilz did not comment.
James E. Rogers, PhD, Director of Food Safety Research and Testing, highlighted the risks of heavy metal accumulation in the body, which can lead to various health issues. Medterra’s products were the only ones in the study to meet all claims and have no detectable heavy metals or pesticides. CEO Gregory Reeder stressed their commitment to delivering clean, safe products that adhere to regulations.
Prior research has identified high THC and lead levels in other CBD products. Cannabis plants can absorb heavy metals from soil, so careful shopping for CBD products is advised.
Tips for purchasing CBD products include checking for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) showing third-party test results for THC, heavy metals, and more. Avoid buying CBD at gas stations, delis, or convenience stores, and prefer dispensaries in states with legalized recreational marijuana. Be aware that ‘Hemp Oil’ may not be the same as CBD, as it typically comes from hemp seeds and contains little to no CBD.
This article also appeared in the January 2023 issue of an independent review magazine. This magazine, backed by a team of scientists, engineers, journalists, and researchers, provides unbiased, data-driven product reviews to raise standards and ensure fair deals and safe products for consumers.