Cannabis Product Recalls: Aspergillus Contamination 2025

What You Need to Know

In recent months, the California cannabis market has been affected by significant voluntary recalls due to microbial contamination. These recalls, specifically targeting products contaminated with Aspergillus spp., highlight the crucial importance of rigorous testing and quality control in the cannabis industry. If you’ve purchased cannabis products in California recently, this information could be vital for your health and safety.

Recent Major Cannabis Recalls Due to Fungal Contamination

The California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) has issued multiple notices of voluntary recall in 2025, affecting well-known brands and potentially thousands of consumers. These recalls serve as an important reminder about the potential health risks associated with contaminated cannabis products.

Connected Products Recall (February 28, 2025)

On February 28, 2025, a significant voluntary recall was announced affecting multiple Connected brand products, including both flower and pre-roll items manufactured by 2JC LLC. Laboratory testing identified the presence of Aspergillus spp. contamination, prompting immediate action to protect consumers.

If you’ve purchased Connected flower or pre-rolls, you should:

• Check your packaging for the specific UID and batch numbers listed on the DCC’s website
• If your product matches the affected batches, discontinue use immediately
• Either dispose of the product properly or return it to the retailer where purchased

The recall demonstrates Connected’s commitment to consumer safety, as the company acted swiftly once contamination was discovered through their quality control processes.

Top Shelf Cultivation Recall (January 30, 2025)

Earlier this year, on January 30, 2025, a similar recall affected Top Shelf Cultivation flower products manufactured by The Back House. This voluntary recall was also triggered by the discovery of Aspergillus spp. during microbial testing.

For Top Shelf Cultivation products:

• Verify if your purchase is affected by checking the UID and batch number against those listed in the recall notice
• If affected, quarantine the product to prevent use
• Return to retailer or dispose of following proper protocols

Both recalls reflect the cannabis industry’s growing commitment to consumer safety and regulatory compliance, even when it requires taking difficult and costly actions like product recalls.

Understanding the Health Risks of Aspergillus in Cannabis

Aspergillus contamination in cannabis products presents genuine health concerns that shouldn’t be ignored, particularly for certain vulnerable populations.

Serious Risks for Immunocompromised Users

For immunocompromised individuals, exposure to Aspergillus through contaminated cannabis can pose severe health risks. People undergoing cancer treatment, organ transplant recipients, or those with conditions affecting the immune system face elevated danger from fungal exposure.

The inhalation of Aspergillus conidia (spores) can potentially lead to several health complications:

• Respiratory issues ranging from mild irritation to severe infection, as documented by the CDC
• Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
• In rare but serious cases, invasive aspergillosis (a condition where the fungus invades and damages tissues)

Even for healthy individuals, exposure to mold through cannabis consumption isn’t desirable and could potentially cause mild respiratory symptoms or allergic reactions.

Quality Control Challenges in the Cannabis Industry

These recalls highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the cannabis industry in maintaining consistent product safety. Cannabis cultivation creates environments where, without proper controls, microbial contamination can develop.

Factors Contributing to Aspergillus Contamination

Several factors can contribute to fungal growth in cannabis:

• High humidity environments during cultivation
• Improper drying and curing processes
• Inadequate storage conditions
• Challenges in maintaining sterile processing environments

The industry continues to evolve its approach to quality control, with increased focus on:

• Enhanced testing protocols throughout the production process
• Improved environmental controls during cultivation and storage
• More stringent supplier verification procedures
• Advanced detection methods for contaminants

The Critical Role of the DCC in Consumer Protection

The California Department of Cannabis Control plays an essential role in protecting public health by monitoring and enforcing recalls when necessary. The DCC maintains comprehensive records of both mandatory and voluntary recalls, providing transparency for consumers.

When contamination is discovered, the DCC works with manufacturers and distributors to:

• Verify test results confirming contamination
• Ensure proper notification of retailers and consumers
• Monitor the recall process to maximize affected product recovery
• Track adverse event reports related to recalled products

The DCC’s involvement demonstrates the maturing regulatory framework surrounding cannabis products in California, with consumer safety as a primary focus.

What Consumers Should Do

If you’re a cannabis consumer in California, these recall events emphasize the importance of purchasing products only from licensed retailers who source from compliant manufacturers. Additionally:

If You’ve Purchased Recently Recalled Products:

1. Check the batch and UID numbers on your products against those listed in the recalls
2. Stop using any affected products immediately
3. Return affected products to the retailer or dispose of them properly
4. If you’ve consumed affected products and experience any unusual symptoms, contact your physician or report through the FDA MedWatch system

Going Forward:

• Keep packaging information until products are fully consumed
• Stay informed about recalls by checking the DCC website periodically
• Consider the source of your cannabis products and prioritize brands with strong safety records
• If you’re immunocompromised, discuss cannabis use with your healthcare provider to understand your specific risks

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Recalls

How do I know if my cannabis product is part of a recall?

To determine if your cannabis product is affected by a recall, check the UID and batch numbers on your product packaging against those listed in the recall notices on the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) website. These identifying numbers can typically be found on the label or packaging of your cannabis product.

What exactly is Aspergillus and why is it dangerous?

Aspergillus is a common type of mold that can grow on cannabis plants during cultivation, processing, or storage. While most people with healthy immune systems can tolerate some exposure, it can potentially cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, or in rare cases, more serious infections. For immunocompromised individuals, Aspergillus exposure poses significantly higher risks, potentially leading to invasive aspergillosis, a serious condition that can affect the lungs and other organs.

What should I do with recalled cannabis products?

If you have a product that’s part of a recall, you should:

1. Stop using it immediately
2. Keep it in its original packaging
3. Return it to the dispensary where you purchased it, or
4. Dispose of it properly according to local regulations

Never give recalled products to others or attempt to “salvage” contaminated cannabis.

Can I get a refund for recalled cannabis products?

Most licensed dispensaries will offer refunds or exchanges for products that have been officially recalled. Contact the retailer where you purchased the product to inquire about their specific refund policy for recalled items.

How can I reduce my risk of exposure to contaminated cannabis?

To reduce your risk:

• Purchase cannabis only from licensed dispensaries
• Look for products with testing information available
• Store cannabis properly in a cool, dry place
• Check for visible signs of mold (though Aspergillus isn’t always visible)
• Stay informed about recalls in your area
• If you’re immunocompromised, consult with your healthcare provider about additional precautions

What symptoms might indicate exposure to Aspergillus-contaminated cannabis?

Symptoms of exposure can include:

• Coughing or wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Increased allergic reactions
• Sinus congestion

If you’ve consumed recalled products and experience these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

How does the industry test for Aspergillus in cannabis products?

Cannabis products undergo microbiological testing that can identify harmful contaminants like Aspergillus. These tests typically involve culturing samples or using DNA-based methods to detect the presence of specific microorganisms. In California, cannabis products must pass these tests before they can be legally sold through licensed dispensaries.

Conclusion

These recent cannabis recalls due to Aspergillus contamination highlight both the challenges and progress in cannabis product safety. While concerning, the swift identification and voluntary recalls demonstrate the industry’s growing commitment to consumer protection.

As the cannabis market continues to mature, we can expect to see continued improvements in testing, quality control, and transparency around product safety. For now, staying informed about recalls and purchasing from reputable sources remains the best protection for cannabis consumers.

Have you checked your recent cannabis purchases against the recall lists? Taking a moment to verify could be an important step for your health and safety.