The RCMP has seized thousands of illegal cannabis products, including those that advertise tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels that far exceed legal limits, during inspections of illegal storefronts since March 3.
Product packaging indicates that chocolate bars containing 2,000–8,000 mg of THC each and candy containing 5,000 mg per package were among the illegal products seized. The legal limit in Canada is 10 mg of THC per package, well under what’s being marketed at illegal cannabis storefronts. Samples of the seized items are currently being tested.
Many of these products were intentionally made to look like everyday snacks and drinks such as potato chips, candy, cereal, cookies, chocolate bars, and pop. This type of packaging is illegal under federal cannabis laws.
“Illegal cannabis products are largely produced and distributed by organized crime, posing real health and safety risks to Nova Scotians,” says Supt. Jason Popik of the Nova Scotia RCMP. “These products are not subject to standards for packaging, sanitation, or THC limits. It’s important for parents and the public to understand just how much THC they can contain, and how easily children or others could mistake illegal knock‑offs for legitimate products.”
The Nova Scotia RCMP continues to enforce cannabis laws with a focus on public safety and the aim to have illegal cannabis storefronts cease operations; their products are often sourced from organized crime groups, are unregulated, and may pose health risks.
On March 27, RCMP officers attended an illegal cannabis storefront on Sweetgrass Ln., in Eskasoni, to complete an inspection. A quantity of cannabis and shatter was seized. One person present at the storefront was charged under the Cannabis Control Act for operating a store that sells cannabis.
Anyone with information about illegal drug activity in their community is encouraged to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers.
