It is getting easier to purchase quality cannabis with the number of states legalizing medical and recreational marijuana. There are still many states, however, that have been slow with legislation leaving many consumers with no choice but to get their weed like they always have, with a street connection. Many users are fortunate enough to have a reliable source, although any cannabis purchased on the street has not gone through the rigorous testing that dispensaries must meet and a tracking system to verify that you’re getting what you pay for.
Cannabis sold in dispensaries is tested for harmful pathogens like fungus and bacteria and is ensured not to be contaminated with harmful substances. If you are buying cannabis on the street, you just have to trust your source, and they need to trust theirs. Even if you trust your source, it is nearly impossible to be guaranteed quality marijuana free from contaminants and harmful substances from the street.
Street weed can be dangerous and even deadly. Cannabis can be contaminated with fungus and bacteria, dirt, dust, or pesticides, and is usually not intentional, although can be very harmful, particularly to people with respiratory issues like asthma.
Cannabis fought off the street can also be laced with harmful substances, which is intentional. Some dealers choose to lace cannabis with other drugs to enhance the psychoactive effects and make them more addictive for repeat business. Some harmful substances found in laced cannabis include cocaine, heroin, PCP, ketamine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Some of these substances, even in very small doses, can be deadly.
Other foreign substances, such as glass, laundry detergent, fuel additives, and food coloring, have also been found in laced cannabis. This is usually an attempt to increase the weight to fool the buyer. Always purchase your cannabis from a reliable source, preferably a dispensary where testing has been completed, or grow your own so you know exactly what’s in your weed.
Learn More